When we arrived in Liberia under a veil of darkness, barely able to see each other, we had no idea what to expect. We had researched a great deal - perhaps too much. We had read about the high rates of crime, foreigners being robbed and assaulted, and the danger outside the capital city of Monrovia. None of these things have been our experience.
We have been so warmly greeted by everyone we have encountered. Friendly waves and smiles are almost always followed by, “You are welcome.” We have felt very safe.
I am so proud of the team I assembled for this project. I am certain I could not have done it without George behind the camera, Michael behind the wheel and Kaipee behind everything else! Kaipee and Michael took care of us from start to finish. We didn’t always understand why they chose to do things the way they did, and sometimes it was frustrating to be sure, but they always came through for us. They made sure we achieved everything we came here to do, supported us in ways for which we did not pay them, and offered us their friendship.
They made me laugh. They made me cry. They inspired me beyond what I thought possible.
Kaipee’s fierce passion for journalism is something I wish I could convey to every new Canadian journalist. He has been beaten in his endless search for truth. He is committed to exposing corruption at any cost, and will take on anyone who dares question his pursuit of fair and balanced reporting.
When we were stopped by Liberian National Police trying to prevent us from taking photos near the American Embassy, Kaipee sprang into action, adamant that no one could stop us from taking photos of a city skyline on a public street! He succeeded and the officers allowed us to proceed, but Kaipee was furious, vowing to call their public relations officer later.
To be clear, this experience has not been without its challenges. We have taken long, windy country roads, crossing bridges we didn’t think possible to cross, battled significant language barriers (even though we’re all speaking English!), worked through long days in the intense African sun, and ran into car trouble twice (once as the sun was setting and we were in the middle of nowhere!) All of it has been part of a grand African adventure.
There is no question Liberia is a very poor country still struggling with the aftermath of one of the worst public health crises the world has ever seen, but there is a great deal happening here. Liberians are an incredibly resilient people with a will to find their way forward. I am so thankful to each and every Liberian who took the time to graciously share their difficult stories with strangers.
I think we are coming back with an important story Canadians need to see. I am forever grateful to CTV, the Canadian Association of Journalists and Aga Khan Foundation Canada for this incredible opportunity. There is still a great deal of work to be done upon our return, but I can’t wait to show you the finished product. Thanks for following along. See you soon Canada.
That’s a wrap!
