the talents to excel in fields that could bring pride and dignity to the nation.

He said young Liberians need the support required to attain their full potentials and that it is about time that priority be directed to areas that could highlight Liberian culture.

Vice President Boakai made the statement Wednesday evening in Sinkor at a dinner he hosted in honor of Gregory Artus Frank, a Liberian Movie Actor plying his trade in Ghana and Nigeria and winner of Face of Africa Award.

Frank, a Liberian, is an internationally acclaimed movie star who has received many awards for his contributions to the African film industry and humanitarian work.
During the outbreak of the Ebola crisis in Liberia, he provided bottles of hand sanitizer, water, gloves, buckets and other supplies for indigent communities.

Vice President Boakai praised the movie actor for the high level of patriotism he has demonstrated to his motherland, noting that he has brought pride to the country and could inspire other Liberians to enter the entertainment industry.

Frank returned home to Liberia with the awards he received as a mark of respect for his country, according to a release from the Office of the Vice President.

Earlier, Vice President Boakai disclosed that he has initiated talks with the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism for the reactivation of the National Cultural Center as promised during the launch of the Balawala International Foundation recently.

Responding, Frank thanked the Vice President for the honor bestowed on him and called on the Government to look into the issue of the Liberian entertainment industry, noting that the world could know Liberia through Liberian movies.

He noted that Liberians do not have to leave Liberia to be lifted, saying, stardom can be achieved right here in Liberia.

Artus was gowned by the Liberia Movie Industry and certificated by Vice President Boakai for bringing honor to Liberia through the production of movies that have received international acclaim.

Vice President Boakai was also gowned by the Liberia Movie Union for his support to the organization, the release said.
LINA PR/TSS/PTK