“Let’s Be That One Leaf to Transform Our Newsrooms” Best Urges Journalists
November 1, 2026
By Lazota Bility
China: As 23 Liberian journalists conclude a 14-day media capacity-building seminar in China, the head of delegation, Mr Bai S. G. Best, has challenged them to use the knowledge gained to bring change to their respective newsrooms and media institutions.
Speaking at the official closing ceremony on October 28,2026 Mr Best reminded the journalists that the real work would begin when they returned home, urging them to put what they had learned into practice.
Encouraging each participants to become that “one leaf” of change in their newsrooms, stressing that the opportunity given to them should translate into something meaningful for journalism in Liberia.
“Let us be that one leaf of change in our various newsrooms and institutions.
The knowledge has been given to us; it is now our duty to take back home what we have learned, be the change, and help our country get better,” Best said.
Motivating participating journalists to practice constructive journalism by reporting on issues affecting society while helping people understand the problems and possible solutions.
Stressing the need for journalists to continue asking difficult questions and give attention to communities and people whose voices are often left unheard.
He acknowledged that introducing changes in their respective newsrooms might not be easy, as some journalists could face resistance and skepticism from colleagues.
His call was inspired by the delegation’s experience in Anji County, Zhejiang Province, particularly the development of Anji White Tea, where a single tea leaf has become a symbol of economic transformation and improved livelihoods for local communities.
During their visit, the journalists learned how the tea industry has created opportunities for local farmers and contributed to the development of the community.
Drawing from that experience, Mr Best reminded his fellow journalists that they, too, could become that one leaf capable of bringing change to their institutions.
“To my fellow Liberian journalists, you are that leaf” he said, before closing with a Liberian proverb: “If I plant you, will you grow?”Meanwhile, Liu Linhai, Vice President of the Research and Training Institute (RTI), described the seminar as an important opportunity for exchanges between China and Liberia in the media sector.
He encouraged the journalists to take home the experience of China’s green development and lessons on how media can contribute to social development.
Gabriel Wleh Mills, Press Attaché at the Liberian Embassy in China, also thanked the Chinese Government and organizers for the opportunity, encouraging the journalists to use the knowledge and skills gained to strengthen journalism and contribute to Liberia’s development.
The journalists expressed excitement over the opportunity, describing the seminar as more than just a training experience but a chance to grow both professionally and personally.
They thanked the Chinese Government and organizers for the opportunity and pledged to apply the knowledge and experiences gained in their respective institutions.
“We will be that one leaf” they said The 14-day seminar was hosted by the Research and Training Institute of China’s National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA).
It brought together 23 Liberian journalists for discussions and exchanges on international communication, cultural exchange, media convergence, innovation and combating fake news/ misinformation
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