In a exclusive interview with West African Standards news outlet via phone today, the CEO/ Founder of Queen Care International (QCI), Ms. David Ann Dahn Johnson has called on Liberians, international partners and stakeholders to increase their efforts, supports and advocacies ensuring all Liberians have access to quality education.
“If given the opportunity to address one pressing issue facing destitute youth today, I would strive immensely to eliminate the barriers of accessing quality education for all children, regardless of their socioeconomic status or background,” CEO and Founder Ms Johnson asserted.
“Education, Ms. Johnson noted” is a fundamental human right and a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty and transforming lives. Yet, millions of children worldwide are denied this right due to lack of resources, inadequate infrastructure, conflict, discrimination, and cultural norms.”
She further elucidated, “Ensuring universal access to quality education empowers children with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities they need to reach their full potential and build better futures.”
“Education not only provides academic skills “she told West African Standards (WAS), “but also instills values like critical thinking, empathy, and resilience, preparing children for modern challenges.”
CEO/Founder Ms. Johnson averred: “Moreover, education is a pathway to economic empowerment, social inclusion, and gender equality. It enables children to break free from poverty, reduces inequalities, and promotes sustainable development. By eliminating barriers to education, we can create a more equitable society where every child can thrive and contribute positively to their communities and the world, fostering peace, prosperity, and progress for generations to come.”
QCI in early 2024, launched its first fundraising for education in Texas, under the theme, “Building the Foundation for Education and Empowerment.” QCI aims at raising US $75,000 to build an elementary school for needed youth and children, tuition free. Last year first fundraising event, QCI raised $1,280. Pledges amounted to $5,000.00.
“We appreciate everyone who contributed their hard-earned money. We are still waiting for those who made pledges and have not fulfilled yet. We know things are difficult. We are certain all pledges will come through before our second launch expected next year,” Ms. Johnson indicated.
Hopefully this December, our “Put A Smile on a Child’s Face” humanitarian project will be in full swing. We are humbly asking for donations, cash or kind. Over the
past year, we joyously celebrated the bright futures of needy youth and children
by providing humanitarian aid Program under the same title: “Put a Smile on a Child’s Face.”
We proudly distributed over 60 sets of educational materials including copybooks,
pencils backpacks, and Bibles, ensuring that those young minds have the tools they
need to succeed. Additionally, we fed approximately 100 children and provided them additional festive gifts. This program will be carried out yearly.
QCI 2024 Fundraising event held in the US. Volunteers displayed QCI T-shirts.
See below the full and exclusive interview CEO and Founder Ms David Ann D. Johnson
West African Standards: What inspired you to become the driving force behind Queen Care Int’l, which is dedicated to supporting needy youth and children in general?
CEO/Founder Ms. David Ann Dahn Johnson: My journey with Queen Care International began with a profound desire and divine calling to make a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable youth and children. Growing up, I witnessed the struggles many young people faced, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. These experiences ignited a passion within me to create positive change and provide opportunities for those who need it most.
I realized the immense potential within every child and youth, regardless of their circumstances, I heartly believed that with the right support, they could overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams. This conviction became the driving force behind Queen Care International.
“Queen Care” embodies our mission to nurture and empower young individuals, helping them realize their worth and potential. We provide not just material support but also emotional and educational assistance, fostering holistic development and a sense of belonging.
The joy and fulfillment from seeing lives transformed fuel my dedication to Queen Care International. Every success story and every smile on a child’s face inspires me to continue striving to reach more young people and make an even greater impact.
West African Standards: That is awesome. What keeps your passion burning in leading this incredible cause amid the challenges?
CEO/Founder Ms. David Ann Dahn Johnson: The unwavering belief in the potential of every child and the transformative impact of our work keeps my passion burning amid challenges. Witnessing the positive changes in young lives and knowing that our efforts make a difference fuel my dedication to leading this incredible cause.
West African Standards: Could you share a heartwarming or humorous anecdote from your journey of empowering youth and children through Queen Care Int’l?
CEO/Founder Ms. David Ann Dahn Johnson: One of the most heartwarming moments from my journey with Queen Care International happened during our first outreach event in Monrovia, Liberia 2009. We had organized a small gathering to distribute school supplies and offer support to a group of disadvantaged children in the community. Among them was a little girl named Lydia.
Lydia was shy and reserved, clinging to her mother’s side as we handed out backpacks filled with notebooks, pencils, and other essentials. Her eyes widened with curiosity, but she didn’t say a word. As I approached her with a bright pink backpack, I knelt down and gently handed it to her.
At first, she hesitated, glancing up at her mother for reassurance. With a small nod from her mother, Lydia tentatively took the backpack from my hands. Her tiny fingers unzipped it, and as she peeked inside, her face lit up with a smile that could brighten the darkest of days.
She looked up at me with sparkling eyes and whispered, “Is this really for me?” I nodded, and her smile grew even wider. She hugged the backpack tightly as if it were the most precious treasure she had ever received.
Seeing the joy and gratitude on Lydia’s face was an incredibly moving experience. It was a powerful reminder of why we do what we do at Queen Care International. That simple act of giving had made a great impact on her, and it reinforced my commitment to continue supporting and empowering more children like Lydia.
That moment, filled with genuine happiness and hope, is one I will always cherish. It’s a testament to the fact that even small gestures of kindness can make a big difference in the lives of those who need it most.
West African Standards: This is teary, inspirational and motivational . How do you envision the future impact of your organization on the lives of those it serves?
CEO and Founder Miss David Ann D. Johnson: Yes, it is indeed teary. Thanks. I envision Queen Care International expanding its reach and deepening its impact on vulnerable youth and children worldwide. Our organization will strive to be a beacon of hope and empowerment.
In the future, we will implement innovative programs addressing the evolving needs of our beneficiaries, providing access to quality education, healthcare, mentorship, and essential services. We will prioritize holistic development, nurturing academic and professional skills, emotional well-being, and personal growth.
Queen Care International will become a hub of collaboration, partnering with local communities, government agencies, and other organizations to maximize our impact. By leveraging our resources and expertise, we can create sustainable solutions that uplift communities and break the cycle of poverty and inequality.
Ultimately, our future impact lies in the transformative power of empowerment and opportunity. By equipping youth and children with the tools and support they need, we can help them realize their full potential, build brighter futures, and contribute positively to their communities and the world.
West African Standards: This so unique. What an impactful, selfless and life changing visions and goals. As a female leader, what strategies have you employed to navigate and thrive in this space?
CEO/Founder Ms. David Ann Dahn Johnson: As a female leader, I’ve employed several strategies to navigate and thrive in this space:
Embracing Authenticity: I believe in being true to myself and embracing my unique leadership style and perspective. By staying authentic, I can build genuine connections with my team and stakeholders, fostering trust and collaboration.
Building a Supportive Network: Surrounding myself with mentors, peers, and allies who champion diversity and inclusion has been crucial. These individuals provide invaluable support, guidance, and encouragement, helping me navigate challenges and seize opportunities for growth.
Prioritizing Self-Care: Balancing the demands of leadership with self-care is essential for maintaining resilience and well-being. I prioritize activities that recharge me mentally, emotionally, and physically, ensuring I can show up as my best self for my team and organization.
Fostering Inclusive Culture: I’m committed to creating an inclusive and supportive work environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their ideas and talents. By championing diversity and equity, we can harness the collective strengths of our team and drive innovation and success.
Continuous Learning and Development: I recognize the importance of ongoing learning and development in staying relevant and effective as a leader. I actively seek out opportunities to expand my skills and knowledge, whether through formal education, professional development programs, or networking events.
Leading with Empathy and Compassion: Understanding the diverse experiences and perspectives of my team members allows me to lead with empathy and compassion. By fostering a culture of empathy, we can cultivate a supportive and collaborative work environment where everyone can thrive.
Overall, these strategies have helped me navigate the challenges and opportunities of leadership as a woman, enabling me to make a positive impact and drive meaningful change within my organization and beyond.
West African Standards: What advice would you give aspiring women leaders who aim to make a significant difference in the world, just like you?
CEO and Founder Ms. David Ann Dahn. Johnson: To aspiring women leaders, believe in yourself and your abilities. Find your passion and align it with your values. Seek mentorship and support. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Lead with authenticity. Advocate for yourself and others. Never stop learning and celebrate your successes.
West African Standards: Those are encouraging , motivational supportive words .Very powerful. We’ve heard about the highs, but could you share a moment of adversity that you’ve faced and how you overcame it?
CEO/Founder Ms. David Ann Dahn Johnson: Thank you. Positivity is me. Our entire team is all about positivity. It keeps us going. Let me get to your question. During our first “Put a Smile on a Child’s Face” event in Liberia, we faced skepticism from families who feared we might be scammers. Many parents kept their children away, questioning our intentions due to past broken promises from other organizations.
To build trust, we met with the community elders and leaders, explaining our mission showing our brochures and informational package, and explaining about the event that would occur. Their involvement in identifying needy families lent credibility to our efforts, which helped break down barriers of mistrust.
During the event also, families approached us, turning skepticism into cautious optimism. By the end of the day, we reached many children, providing school supplies and engaging activities. This experience underscored the importance of building trust, being transparent, and collaborating with local leaders to ensure our efforts are effective and welcomed.
West African Standards: In your opinion, what role do compassion and empathy play in driving social change and marginalized communities?
CEO/Founder Ms. David Ann Dahn Johnson: Compassion and empathy are essential for uplifting marginalized communities and driving social change. They allow us to deeply understand the experiences and needs of these communities, fostering genuine connections and trust. Compassionate approaches prioritize the dignity and action of individuals, involving them in decision-making and respecting their points of view. They also break down barriers, promoting inclusion by valuing the inherent worth of every individual, regardless of their background.
This brings us to Queen Care Int’l core values “HEART” Human Dignity: Respecting and upholding the inherent worth and rights of every individual, regardless of their background or circumstances. Empathy: Demonstrating understanding and compassion for the suffering and needs of those in need.
Accountability: Taking responsibility for actions and decisions, being transparent, and being answerable to beneficiaries, donors, and partners.
Respect: Treating all individuals with respect and valuing their diverse cultural backgrounds and perspectives.
Tolerance: Promoting an atmosphere of inclusivity, where diversity is respected, and discrimination is actively discouraged. By focusing on the root causes of systemic injustices and centering on the voices of marginalized communities, compassionate approaches create sustainable, lasting change inspiring us to act with kindness, understanding, and solidarity.
West African Standards: If you could wave a magic wand and solve one pressing issue facing destitute youth and children today, what would it be and why?
CEO and Founder Ms David Ann Dahn Johnson: If given the opportunity to address one pressing issue facing destitute youth today, I would eliminate the barriers to accessing quality education for all children, regardless of their socioeconomic status or background. Education is a fundamental human right and a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty and transforming lives. Yet, millions of children worldwide are denied this right due to lack of resources, inadequate infrastructure, conflict, discrimination, and cultural norms.
Ensuring universal access to quality education empowers children with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities they need to reach their full potential and build better futures. Education not only provides academic skills but also instills values like critical thinking, empathy, and resilience, preparing children for modern challenges.
Moreover, education is a pathway to economic empowerment, social inclusion, and gender equality. It enables children to break free from poverty, reduces inequalities, and promotes sustainable development. By eliminating barriers to education, we can create a more equitable society where every child can thrive and contribute positively to their communities and the world, fostering peace, prosperity, and progress for generations to come.
West African Standards: Finally, what keeps you going on the toughest days when the challenges seem insurmountable?
CEO and Founder Miss David Ann Dahn. Johnson: On the toughest days, what keeps me going is my unwavering belief in Queen Care International’s mission and impact on vulnerable youth and children. Knowing our work transforms lives and brings hope serves as a powerful source of motivation. The smiles on the children’s faces, their stories of resilience, and our tangible progress remind me of our mission’s importance and urgency.
I draw strength from our incredible team, united by a shared commitment to our cause. Their passion, creativity, and support remind me that we can overcome any obstacle together. The stories of positive change we’ve witnessed reaffirm our purpose and fuel our determination.
What also sustains me is the belief that our efforts are guided and supported by a Supreme Being, whose grace and wisdom illuminate our path. This divine presence provides comfort and reminds me of the greater purpose of our work. With faith as my anchor and our team’s support, I am empowered to persevere, knowing we are fulfilling a higher calling to serve and uplift those in need.
I want to use this medium to thank our delegated and committed volunteers. Despite the enormous daily life challenges, we individually battle, they are always helping to ensure the organization brings sunshine of hope and joy to our needed people. Without those volunteers here in the USA and back home in Liberia, QCI goals and projects would not have been implemented. Our dynamic Board Members thank you very much for you guidance and hard work. You are greatly appreciated.
I also like to thank those who donated to QCI. We appreciate everyone who donated in cash and kind. We thank you so much. We are encouraging others to donate to help our people back home. Our volunteers will be coming at your doors very soon seeking whatever donation you have. Our organization is seeking cooperate and individual sponsors to help us reach our goals.
West African Standards: Thank you so much for your time.
About Queen Care International
Queen Care Int’l, Inc. (QCI) is a registered 501c3 non-profit organization headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, USA with a sub office in Monrovia, Liberia.
Queen Care Int’l mission is to help transform lives of Liberians and give hope to the needy youth and children in Liberia and its environs by providing an environment full of love and care.
QCI provides and distributes humanitarian and relief services (clothing, food, shoes, medication, etc.).
Queen Care Int’l provides educational materials (copybooks, backpacks, pencils, coloring, computers, etc.), provides scholarships and uniforms, advocates for vulnerable youth and children, establishes a community school cum residential facility for street/disadvantage youth and children and provides free education and vocational Training program to the needy youth and children.
QCI target Youth and Children who have lost one or both parents or are in vulnerable living conditions, families with limited financial resources that struggle to meet the basic needs of their children, children residing in rural areas or remote areas with limited access to education, healthcare, and other essential services.
For information contact:info@queencareintl.org
