Gov’t honors U.S. -based Liberian entrepreneur

The Liberian Government has held an investiture ceremony in honor of Mr. Richelieu William Dennis, Jr., a U.S. -based Liberian in consideration of his enormous contribution to the service of humanity and his exceptional entrepreneurial skills, innovation and brilliant leadership.

During the investiture ceremony at the C. Cecil Dennis Auditorium of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Monrovia Thursday, 28 December, President Ellen Johnson – Sirleaf said Liberia has few unsung heroes who are willing to take risk at a time when they will put themselves at risk.

Mrs. Sirleaf says Mr. Dennis is one of those that are committed to the ideas of things they want to pursue and are willing to face the consequences for the position that they take, adding that the honoree is one Liberia’s unsung heroes.

She recalls how many years ago in 1997, Mr. Dennis worked to help start a long process that led to “where we are today,” citing democratization and reconstruction of the country.

In a citation read by the Chief of Protocol at the investiture, government recognizes how Mr. Dennis co-founded of Sundial Brands with his mother Mary Dennis and friend Nuema Yubman and then with his rich cultural experience, led the Sundial’s vision to cater to underserved consumers through problem / solution products made with natural and certified organic ingredients.

He took his products from the streets of New York to co-create a comprehensive portfolio of product offerings with America’s largest retailers and other channels as well as extending to the UK, Canada, Mexico, South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria and the Caribbean.

In Liberia, government says Mr. Dennis supports skills and training for women at the UNIFORM factory in Monrovia. At the Todee Mission School in Margibi County. The Government says the honoree provides both food for the students as well as a means of income and contributed immensely to the renovation of the Todee campus.

“Beyond the desire to maximize profits, your business model is designated to touch lives of disadvantaged communities and individuals beyond the reach of society compassion,” the government says. It adds that Sundial continues to equip underserved people and communities with access to the opportunities and resources that enable them to create lasting value for themselves and others.

Mr. Dennis in response thanked President Sirleaf for the honor.

By Winston W. Parley