Students Inspired at Virtual Back-to-School Event — Bridging the Gap Initiative

Hosted by Distant Members Fellowship | September 7, 2025

Students from across the country logged in for a vibrant and empowering virtual back-to-school celebration hosted by the Distant Members Fellowship (DMF) Bridging the Gap Program. Now in its second year, the “Popcorn and Ice Cream Back-to-School” event aimed to motivate, uplift, and spiritually prepare students for the academic year ahead.

The program kicked off with a warm welcome from Master of Ceremony Levi Kai, who set the tone for an evening of inspiration and connection. Students relaxed in their homes with a bowl of popcorn and ice cream in hand.

Ms. Brandii Bedell, daughter of DMF Vice President Brenda Bedell, led the opening prayer, inviting the Holy Spirit and asked for divine guidance throughout the school year. Her Royal Highness Cece Kai, Coordinator of the Bridging the Gap Program, followed with a heartfelt welcome to students and parents. She encouraged students to stay engaged, be punctual, and never hesitate to ask questions.

To energize the group, Bro. Dave Gondoun led a dynamic scavenger hunt that helped students break the ice and feel at ease. With the atmosphere warmed and spirits lifted, Bro. Daniel Karr introduced the keynote speaker: Dr. Fatima Greaves Kwekwe, President of the University of Liberia Alumni Association in America.

Dr. Kwekwe holds a Ph.D. in Education from the University of Arizona Global Campus and brings over 25 years of experience in education across the United States and Liberia. Her presence added depth and distinction to the event.

In her keynote address, Dr. Kwekwe warmly welcomed the Class of 2025 to a new chapter filled with opportunity and promise. “You are the reason we are here,” she affirmed, highlighting the dreams and potential each student carries—potential that can shape not only their future, but the world. She encouraged the students to embrace growth, reminding them that success is not defined by perfection, but by the ability to learn from failure and persevere.

Dr. Kwekwe also spoke directly to parents, thanking them for their trust and partnership. “Education is not just about grades and exams,” she said, “but about raising compassionate, well-rounded individuals.” She encouraged students to use the school year as a time for discovery, building meaningful connections, and laying the foundation for lifelong friendships. “The future is not waiting for you,” she concluded, “it is being built by you—every single day.”.

Following the keynote, Bro. Gondoun led a student roll call, where each students introduced themselves, their school, major, and a fun fact.

Dr. Abimbola Kuforiji then offered a prayer, entrusting the students to God’s care and praying for a joyful and safe academic year.

Bro. Travis Samory Fonderson expressed gratitude to all attendees and urged parents to continue supporting their children’s involvement in the Bridging the Gap Program. The event concluded with closing remarks from Sis. Florence Fonderson, wrapping up a day filled with hope, encouragement, and anticipation for the year ahead.

Honors Fathers with Heartfelt Celebration

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On February 16, 2025, the DMF launched its ‘Bridging the Gap’ program, designed to empower young people from Fellowship families. The initiative included a workshop, expertly led by two professionals, focusing on knowledge, skill-building, and nurturing positive relationships among participants.

            Knowing that the stronger a bridge is, the longer it will last, the DMF strengthened its ‘Bridging the Gap’ initiative with a workshop themed ‘Social Media and Self-worth’ on April 6, 2025. This virtual event, attended by numerous young people and adults, focused on empowering participants to navigate life’s challenges through self-development. Expert speakers Rev. Dr. Andrew Okai and Mrs. Goumah Bass-Conde shared valuable insights, guiding attendees toward a healthier understanding of self-worth in the digital age.

Rev. Dr. Okai kicked off the workshop with a thought-provoking session on ‘The Impact of Social Media on Our Minds and Self-worth.’ From a biblical standpoint, he highlighted four key effects of social media, starting with ‘The Comparison Trap.’ This phenomenon often leaves users questioning their self-worth, feeling inadequate, and focusing on others’ lives rather than on their own journey. To combat this, Dr. Okai suggested taking breaks from social media and embracing individuality, citing Galatians 6:4, which encourages a healthy self-pride rooted in one’s unique identity in Christ.

            Dr. Okai highlighted the ‘Identity Crisis’ as the second impact of social media, where users seek validation through likes and approval from others. To combat this, he suggested finding identity in God’s word, citing Psalm 139:14 as an example, where David celebrates being ‘fearfully and wonderfully made.’ By anchoring their self-worth in scripture, believers can develop a strong sense of identity that isn’t swayed by external opinions but rather defined by God’s declaration of who they are.

            Dr. Okai identified ‘The Battle of the Mind’ as the third impact of social media, where conflicting voices and false ideologies create a spiritual battleground, leading to distraction, insecurity, and anxiety. To overcome this, he encouraged listeners to recall their God-given purpose and apply Romans 12:2, where believers are encouraged to transform their minds rather than conform to the world. By choosing to immerse themselves in God’s Word, as outlined in 2 Corinthians 10:3-5, believers can resist the enemy’s strongholds and emerge victorious in the mental battle.

Dr. Okai highlighted the fourth impact of social media as ‘The Power of Influence,’ urging users to consider who they’re allowing on social media platforms to shape their thoughts and actions. As ambassadors of Christ, believers have a responsibility to reflect His character online. Dr. Okai encouraged young people to live out Matthew 5:13-16, becoming ‘salt and light’ in the digital world by standing out for their faith. Following his insightful presentation, there was a heartfelt exchange of gratitude, and a Q&A session allowed for further discussion and clarification.

            Mrs. Goumah Bass-Conde, a licensed marriage and family therapist a member of the Fellowship residing in Georgia, discussed ‘Social Media and Mental Health.’ She defined social media as a platform for social interaction and content creation, emphasizing its connection to self-worth. According to her, social media reflects users’ core values, influencing their sense of identity and well-being.

Mrs. Bass-Conde underscored the dual nature of social media, discussing both its benefits and risks. On the positive side, she noted that social media serves as a valuable learning tool, offering a wealth of information and raising awareness about important issues like mental health. Additionally, it promotes globalization by connecting people worldwide by fostering a sense of community.

Mrs. Bass-Conde explored the dual nature of social media, highlighting both its benefits and risks. She noted that social media serves as a valuable learning tool, offering a vast array of information that raises awareness about important issues like mental health. Additionally, she emphasized its role in fostering globalization by bridging geographical gaps and creating a connected global community. 

However, alongside its benefits, social media also poses risks, particularly for adolescents. According to Mrs. Bass-Conde, it’s crucial for young people to be aware of these risks, as they’re navigating a critical stage of development known as ‘Identity vs. Confusion,’ a concept introduced by Erik Erikson. During this phase, adolescents are trying to figure out who they are and define their place in society.

            Mrs. Bass-Conde highlighted social media addiction as a significant risk, warning that it can have far-reaching consequences. Excessive social media use can lead to decreased productivity, strained relationships, and have negative impacts on mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and overall dissatisfaction with life. Furthermore, she noted that social media addiction can undermine self-esteem – a crucial aspect of development for young people. She defined self-esteem as a positive and realistic self-image, essential for becoming a well-adjusted adult.

            Mrs. Bass-Conde emphasized the importance of social relationships in shaping our identity and overall well-being, particularly in relation to self-esteem. She stressed that for young people to develop healthy self-esteem in the digital age, it’s essential to have a strong sense of self and a clear purpose for using social media. By knowing themselves and defining their intentions, users can avoid letting social media dictate their self-worth and instead maintain a confident sense of identity.

            Mrs. Bass-Conde concluded her presentation by offering practical tips for maintaining a healthy relationship with social media. She encouraged her audience to cultivate self-worth by embracing their identity from God’s eyes, citing scriptures like Jeremiah 1:4-5, Jeremiah 29:11, and 2 Timothy 1:7. She also advised young people to be thoughtful in their online interactions, take breaks from social media, stay true to their values, and live according to God’s plan for their lives. To drive her point home, she shared two powerful quotes: ‘We love because He first loved us’ (1 John 4:19) and ‘I do not fix my problems. I fix my thinking, and my problems fix themselves’ by Louis Hay.

            Following Mrs. Bass-Conde’s inspiring presentation, the attendees expressed their heartfelt gratitude. The group then divided into breakout sessions for young people and adults, where lively discussions took place. After reconvening, each group shared their key takeaways. The Fellowship leaders offered closing remarks, and Rev. Morris Jarkloh led the final prayer. The workshop showcased the DMF’s commitment to building a stronger future, evident in the quality of events and the young leaders’ enthusiasm and participation.