Monrovia – In a move to combat youth unemployment in Liberia, Eyea’s Plates and Pour, a newly opened restaurant located at the corner of Clay and Carey Streets in Monrovia, has employed 16 young men and women in various positions, including waiters, waitresses, cashiers, chefs, bartenders, cleaners, and security personnel. The restaurant operates on a shift basis, offering morning and night shifts, and remains open every day of the week, including Sundays.
By Mae Azango – [email protected]
Proprietress Madam Aren Kollie, who recently returned to Liberia to contribute to her homeland, expressed her commitment to providing job opportunities for young Liberians. “Because the establishment is new, I have employed 16 young men and women. Each employee has a day off, and we have morning and night shifts at the restaurant. We are open every day of the week,” Madam Kollie shared.
Youth unemployment has long been a significant challenge in Liberia, with many young graduates struggling to find employment after completing their studies. According to Breakthrough Action and research, Liberia’s youth unemployment rate was 2.29% in 2022, down 0.54% from 2021. Despite Liberia’s youthful population, with 63% under the age of 25 and over 32% between the ages of 10 and 24, finding stable employment remains a hurdle for many.
Some of the newly employed staff at Eyea’s Plates and Pour expressed their gratitude and excitement for the opportunity to work. Victor D. Kezelee Jr., a graduate of the University of Liberia in forestry and now a cashier at the restaurant, said, “Getting this job will help minimize poverty in my life because I will be able to feed my family, pay my bills, and support my children’s education. I’m excited to be gaining hospitality experience, and our boss is incredibly supportive and understanding.”
Kezelee, who previously worked as a cashier at various schools, encouraged others to remain open to different job opportunities. “Everyone can work if their mind is made up. I studied forestry, but now I’m working in hospitality. It’s all about being willing to adapt,” he said.
Another employee, Mobeta Kollie, a 24-year-old junior student at the University of Liberia studying Public Health, serves as a waitress while continuing her education. “This job has made me financially independent. The salary I earn helps me pay my school fees, buy materials, and cover transportation costs. I encourage others to find a job and become independent. Eyea’s Plates and Pour offers a great environment and excellent customer service,” she said.
The Vision Behind Eyea’s Plates and Pour
Madam Aren Kollie, the brain behind Eyea’s Plates and Pour, named the restaurant in honor of her late grandmother, who was known for her hospitality and love of cooking. “My grandmother always cooked and welcomed people to enjoy her meals. I’m keeping her legacy alive through this restaurant,” Madam Kollie explained. One of the restaurant’s signature dishes, “Kebai,” is a unique Lorma dish beloved by her grandmother.
Despite some challenges, including ensuring tasks are done to her satisfaction, Madam Kollie remains optimistic. She emphasized that the location of the restaurant is secondary to the quality of food and service they provide. “It’s not about the location; it’s about the good food and service. We’ll do a lot of advertising, and we’re active on social media. We even appeared on Spoon FM last week,” she said.
In her closing remarks, Madam Kollie invited everyone to visit Eyea’s Plates and Pour. “We cater to all occasions, including weddings, birthday parties, and workshops. We offer a wide variety of Western and local dishes. Come with your family and experience our exceptional service in a cool and relaxing atmosphere.” The restaurant’s opening event featured an “eat all you can” buffet priced at US$20, allowing customers to sample a variety of dishes. The event was well-attended by families, friends, and loved ones, all eager to taste the delicious offerings of Eyea’s Plates and Pour.
