The founder and executive director of Change Agent Network (CAN), operating in Liberia as Opportunity Network Liberia, Mr. Eric Willise Wowoh, has again expressed how grateful he is to everyone who chipped in one way or another in 2024 to continue to make transformative strides in Liberia.
Opportunity Network Liberia, Inc., has become a symbol of resilience, hope, and empowerment, connecting global and local partners to transform underserved Liberian communities.
In 2024, CAN achieved a groundbreaking milestone by raising US$500,695, “a remarkable testament to its mission and the unwavering support of a growing global community.”
Since founding CAN in 2006, Eric has championed a vision for a thriving Liberia, one where education, faith, and economic freedom lead the way to transformation.
Founder and Executive Director of Change Agent Network (CAN) / Opportunity Network Liberia, Mr. Eric Willise Wowoh
“CAN’s success is not solely a global effort; it is deeply rooted in collaboration with Liberians in the diaspora. Liberian organizations across the U.S., including those from Grand Gedeh County, have joined hands with CAN to provide infrastructure development to underserved communities. Liberians themselves are raising funds and contributing personal resources to rebuild their homeland, showcasing a spirit of unity and determination. This collaboration has been both encouraging and inspiring, amplifying CAN’s impact and empowering communities to take ownership of their future,” Eric said.
The CAN founder, who was born in Fissibu Town, Zorzor District, Lofa County, with no birth certificate, faced unimaginable challenges, including displacement as a refugee during the Liberian civil war for more than a decade and a half.
A Vision of Faith, Collaboration, and Self-Empowerment
Eric’s life story reflects the power of perseverance and faith. Displaced by the Liberian Civil War and living as a refugee for over a decade, he turned personal adversity into a mission of service. Since founding CAN in 2006, Eric has championed a vision for a thriving Liberia, one where education, faith, and economic freedom lead the way to generational transformation.
CAN’s Transformative Impact Over the Years
CAN’s journey has been marked by incredible milestones that have profoundly changed lives. Over 2,000 graduates from CAN schools are now equipped to contribute to Liberia’s development. The humanitarian organization’s schools offer hope and a brighter future through education for over 4,000 children annually. It has built 28 schools across six counties, providing access to quality education in underserved regions. Over the years, CAN has shipped 23 containers filled with essential supplies, including four buses to support student transportation, bridging critical resource gaps.
As CAN strives to provide quality education for young Liberians, it also brings economic empowerment by creating over 350 jobs in local communities. Nearly 400,000 people have also benefited from other humanitarian initiatives of CAN.
CAN doesn’t only work along with Liberians. Eric has hosted over 100 Americans in Liberia; this initiative fosters global partnerships and cultural exchange. CAN also empowers young people; presently, it has at least 100 volunteers and interns contributing to programs on the ground. In addition to the 28 schools, CAN has one university in progress. The Change Agent Network University (CAN-U) offers Associate and Bachelor’s degrees in Business, Education, Agriculture, and Theology.
2024: A Year of Faith-Driven Achievements
In 2024, Eric said CAN reached new heights in its mission to transform Liberia:
- American Leftovers – Containers of Hope: Four containers filled with school supplies, rice, clothing, household supplies, and Bibles were shipped to Liberia. These shipments are transforming communities and creating opportunities.
- Empowering Students: Over 200 students graduated from CAN schools, stepping into their futures with confidence and faith.
- Infrastructure Development: Construction projects at the CAN Leadership Academy in Kakata, Margibi County and the Jarwoodee High School in Gbarzon District, Grand Gedeh County Annex progressed, creating modern facilities for education.
- Digital Empowerment: The 842 Computer Training Center celebrated its 2024 graduating classes, equipping Liberians with vital digital skills.
- Strengthening Partnerships: Collaborations with organizations such as Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and Liberian community groups in the U.S. amplified CAN’s impact.
2025 Goals: A Brighter Future
Looking ahead to 2025, CAN plans to build on its 2024 successes. Goals for the upcoming year include completing infrastructure projects at CAN University in Lofa County and affiliated campuses across Liberia, launching the CAN Girls Academy in Grand Cape Mount County to provide a safe and empowering space for young women and sponsoring 100 rural teachers through the Adopt a Teacher Program to transform education in underserved areas. Additional goals include shipping four containers of supplies through the American Leftovers – Containers of Hope Program and expanding the Travel to Impact Liberia Program to foster global collaboration and cultural exchange.
A Legacy of Hope and Gratitude
Reflecting on CAN’s journey, Eric W. Wowoh says, “Together, through faith, hope, and education, we are rewriting Liberia’s story—one life at a time.” His vision inspires global supporters and Liberians, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in their shared mission.
The successes of 2024 and the enduring impact of CAN are a testament to the tireless work of its dedicated staff in Liberia and the generous support of global partners. Their shared commitment to transforming Liberia is a powerful reminder of what is possible when faith, hope, and love guide the way.
To learn more about CAN’s transformative work and join this inspiring mission, visit www.canintl.org.
