A Rising Diplomatic Star

As Liberia commemorates 178 years of sovereignty, the nation proudly celebrates the diplomats and visionaries charting a bold new path in global engagement. Leading this charge is Hon. Karishma Pelham-Raad, the dynamic Assistant Minister for International Organizations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Her emergence as a skilled negotiator, a passionate humanitarian, and a voice for multilateral diplomacy positions her as the Face of Liberia at 178 - Diplomatic Engagement.

At a time when Liberia is strengthening its global footprint, Hon. Pelham-Raad stands at the center of this transformation bridging local priorities with international partnerships, and representing the new face of Liberian diplomacy: innovative, inclusive, and strategic.

From Telecom to Global Diplomacy

With over 12 years of experience in the private telecommunications sector, Hon. Pelham-Raad brings technical precision and strategic thinking into public service.

A trained telecom network engineer and holder of a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, she is currently pursuing advanced studies in International Relations and Diplomacy, a clear demonstration of her commitment to mastering the intricacies of global affairs.

Since transitioning into government service in 2019, she has redefined the role of women in diplomacy through her bold engagement in international organizations, humanitarian policy, and electoral integrity across West Africa.

A Diplomat of Action and Vision

Hon. Pelham-Raad’s leadership was instrumental in Liberia’s successful bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (2026–2027) a milestone that reflects her diplomatic acumen and her ability to rally support for Liberia’s foreign policy goals on the world stage.

From delivering Liberia’s national statement at the 34th International Red Cross Conference in Geneva to undergoing specialized training in nuclear non-proliferation in Austria, she has consistently advanced Liberia’s voice in multilateral forums and critical global conversations.

Her work embodies the essence of diplomatic engagement strategic, principled, and impactful.

Humanitarian Advocate and Youth Champion

Beyond diplomacy, Hon. Pelham-Raad’s heart beats for Liberia’s underserved.

Through the HRH Karishma Charity Foundation, which she founded, she delivers grassroots support to communities in need, focusing on women’s empowerment, youth development, and health.

Her advocacy is backed by action: she has served as an ECOWAS election observer, and as country chair for multiple international networks committed to humanitarian leadership, women in governance, and media freedom.

It is no surprise she was recently recognized among Africa’s 100 Most Influential Women by New Africa Magazine, a testament to her growing regional and continental influence.

Why is she the Face of Liberia at 178 Diplomatic Engagements?

As Liberia forges its place in a rapidly evolving global order, Hon. Karishma Pelham-Raad personifies the new generation of Liberian leadership: technically skilled, globally aware, and compassionately driven.

Her ability to engage with the international community while staying grounded in Liberia’s local development priorities makes her an exemplary model of what 21st-century diplomacy should look like.

At 178 years of independence, Liberia not only reflects on its past, but it also celebrates the builders of its future.

And in Hon. Karishma Pelham-Raad, the nation finds a trailblazer in diplomacy, a woman of action, and a symbol of Liberia’s global ambition.

Fast Facts on Hon. Karishma Pelham-Raad

• Position: Assistant Minister for International Organizations, Ministry of Foreign Affairs

• Educational Background:

• Bachelor’s in Business Management

• Advanced studies in International Relations & Diplomacy

• Professional Background:

• 12+ years in telecom engineering

• Transitioned to public service in 2019

• Key Diplomatic Engagements:

• UN Security Council Campaign

• 34th International Red Cross Conference- Geneva

• Nuclear Non-Proliferation Training – Austria

• Advocacy Focus:

• Women & Youth Empowerment

• Peacebuilding

• Humanitarian Development

• Founder: HRH Karishma Charity Foundation

• Recognitions: One of Africa’s 100 Most Influential Women, New Africa Magazine

“Diplomacy is not just about statecraft, it’s about people. Liberia’s future lies in how well we connect our national dreams with global realities.” - Hon. Karishma Pelham-Raad