In a stunning elevation of Liberia’s voice on the continental stage, peacebuilding champion and youth icon Gwendolyn Seyonnoh Myers has been appointed to the African Union’s Advisory Panel on Democratic Elections and Governance. The appointment cements Liberia’s growing reputation as a beacon of democratic resilience and youth-driven leadership in Africa.
Myers, the dynamic Founder and Executive Director of Messengers of Peace (MOP)-Liberia, announced the milestone after years of distinguished service on African Union Election Observation Mission (AUEOM) Core Teams, where she carved out a reputation as a fearless Gender and Youth Expert. Her new role places her at the heart of Africa’s governance architecture, shaping policy dialogue, technical engagement, and continental strategies to safeguard democracy.
“This is both a privilege and a continuation of my journey,” Myers declared with characteristic humility. “It is important to serve. The journey continues.” Her words resonated as a rallying cry for a new generation of African leaders determined to anchor peace and accountability in governance.
The Advisory Panel, established under the AU Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security (PAPS) in 2021, is no ordinary body. It is a high-level think tank designed to fortify electoral integrity, deepen democratic systems, and provide technical lifelines to election management bodies across Africa. Its mission aligns seamlessly with Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want, the AU’s long-term vision for prosperity, unity, and inclusive governance.
In her new capacity, Myers will collaborate with governance experts, election specialists, and peacebuilders from across the continent, injecting youth-centered and gender-responsive perspectives into the AU’s democratic support mechanisms. Observers say her appointment is not just a personal triumph but a national victory, spotlighting Liberia’s contributions to peacebuilding and democratic reform.
Her credentials are formidable. Since founding MOP-Liberia in 2008, Myers has mobilized over 1,500 volunteer “Peace Messengers” and established peace clubs in schools nationwide, instilling values of dialogue, coexistence, and conflict prevention among young Liberians. Internationally, she is a recognized voice in the Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS) agenda, serving as interim member of the UN-Habitat Youth Advisory Board, Global Chairperson for Youth Empowerment under the G100, and trustee for Coalition Peace. She also sits as the youngest board member of Mediators Beyond Borders International.
Her accolades speak volumes: Time Magazine named her among the “Top Eight Young Reformers Across the Globe” in 2019, while CARROT CO. hailed her as one of the “Top Seven African Women Breaking Barriers in Peacebuilding.” In 2021, she was tapped as a Peace Ambassador for the European Commission and One Young World. Academically, she holds a Master’s in Reconciliation and Peacebuilding from the University of Winchester, earned through a Gbowee Peace Foundation Africa scholarship.
Nationally, Myers continues to inspire as the Catholic Church of Liberia’s National Youth Coordinator, amplifying her influence in youth mobilization and social development. Her appointment to the AU Advisory Panel is expected to inject fresh energy into continental governance debates, ensuring that Africa’s democratic future is shaped not only by seasoned policymakers but by the voices of its youth.
As Africa grapples with evolving governance challenges, Myers’ rise signals a powerful truth: Liberia’s youth are no longer just participants in democracy—they are architects of its future.
