James Ruzii Gonwokay

James Ruzii Gonwokay, widely known as Ruzii James II, is a distinguished Liberian journalist, humanitarian, social justice advocate, psychologist, and development practitioner whose work has touched the lives of countless individuals and communities across Liberia and beyond. With more than fifteen years of practical experience in journalism, media management, community development, humanitarian service, and public advocacy, he has built a reputation as a passionate voice for the voiceless and a dedicated champion of social transformation.

Born and raised in Liberia, Ruzii's commitment to humanity emerged at an early age and has remained the driving force behind his life's work. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated an unwavering dedication to promoting social justice, community empowerment, youth development, education, and the protection of vulnerable populations. His professional journey reflects a unique blend of media excellence, humanitarian leadership, psychological insight, and grassroots activism.

As a professional journalist and media executive, Ruzii has spent over a decade and a half using the power of communication to educate, inform, and inspire communities. His broadcasting career began in 2010 when he joined the Liberian media landscape with a mission to amplify the voices of ordinary citizens and address critical social issues affecting marginalized populations. His ability to connect with audiences, facilitate meaningful public discourse, and advocate for accountability quickly earned him recognition within the media sector.

From 2010 to 2018, he served as Director of Programs at Salala Agricultural Workers' Union Radio (SAWU FM 104.3 MHz) in Margibi County, where he played a pivotal role in developing impactful radio programming focused on agriculture, education, governance, health awareness, youth empowerment, and community development. Under his leadership, the station strengthened its role as an important platform for public engagement and civic education.

Building on this success, Ruzii continued his media leadership journey with Radio Gbaisue FM 88.9 MHz, where he served from 2019 to 2022. During this period, he further expanded his expertise in broadcast management, content development, public affairs programming, and community outreach. His commitment to ethical journalism and public service broadcasting contributed significantly to strengthening the relationship between the media and the communities it served.

He later assumed the role of Director of Programs at Blue Bird Communication Incorporated FM 102.9 MHz, where he continued to demonstrate excellence in media administration, strategic communication, and audience engagement. Across these institutions, his leadership helped shape programming that informed public opinion, promoted social cohesion, encouraged democratic participation, and addressed pressing community concerns.

Beyond traditional broadcasting, Ruzii has embraced digital media innovation as the Founder and Owner of Upstream Media Liberia Television, an online television network dedicated to delivering news, educational content, community stories, and developmental programming to audiences within Liberia and the Liberian diaspora. Through this platform, he has expanded access to information while creating opportunities for storytelling that reflects the realities, aspirations, and achievements of Liberian communities.

His dedication to service extends far beyond journalism. Throughout his career, Ruzii has volunteered and served in leadership capacities with several nonprofit and humanitarian organizations. He served as Secretary for Volunteers at the Women Education Development Organization of Liberia (WEDOL), where he contributed to initiatives aimed at promoting education, gender equality, community awareness, and social empowerment. He also served as Deputy Executive Director for Margibi County District Five United to Serve Humanity Liberia (MACDFUH Liberia), helping to coordinate humanitarian interventions, community development projects, and advocacy programs designed to improve the lives of underserved populations.

These experiences strengthened his understanding of community challenges and reinforced his belief that sustainable development must be rooted in compassion, inclusion, and active citizen participation. His humanitarian engagements have focused on supporting disadvantaged children, empowering young people, advocating for social equity, and promoting access to opportunities that enable individuals and communities to thrive.

In addition to his accomplishments in media and humanitarian work, Ruzii has pursued academic excellence in the field of psychology. He is currently a final year Psychology student at Sharda University in India, where he continues to deepen his understanding of human behavior, mental health, social relationships, and psychological wellbeing. His academic training complements his extensive practical experience and provides him with valuable tools for understanding the social and emotional dimensions of community development and human welfare.

As a psychologist and advocate, he recognizes the growing importance of mental health awareness and psychosocial support, particularly in developing societies where many individuals face significant social and economic challenges. His vision includes contributing meaningfully to mental health education, psychological support services, and evidence based interventions that improve individual and community wellbeing.

Ruzii is also a respected social justice advocate who has consistently spoken out against inequality, discrimination, injustice, and the marginalization of vulnerable populations. His advocacy efforts have focused on promoting human dignity, encouraging civic engagement, supporting youth leadership, and fostering inclusive development. Through both media and community engagement, he has worked tirelessly to encourage dialogue, inspire positive change, and strengthen democratic values.

His passion for service ultimately contributed to the establishment of the Royal Village International Foundation, where he serves as Co Founder. Through the Foundation, he works alongside fellow humanitarian leaders to advance initiatives that support education, healthcare, child welfare, youth empowerment, community development, and humanitarian assistance. The Foundation reflects his lifelong commitment to creating opportunities for disadvantaged individuals and building stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities.

Throughout his professional journey, James Ruzii Gonwokay has remained guided by the principles of integrity, compassion, service, and excellence. His work represents a rare combination of journalism, humanitarianism, advocacy, leadership, and psychology, making him a dynamic force for positive change. As he continues to expand his impact both locally and internationally, he remains committed to empowering communities, advancing human development, and creating a future where every individual has the opportunity to live with dignity, hope, and purpose.