Hamilton, ON l Empowerment Squared On September 23, 2025, Hamilton-based charitable organization Empowerment Squared and the City of Hamilton hosted a virtual Sister City Relationship Signing Ceremony between Hamilton and Paynesville City Corporation that builds on a growing relationship between the two municipalities. This event follows a motion by Hamilton City Council on February 14, 2024 to establish this relationship.
The purpose of this Sister City Relationship Agreement is to establish a collaborative and mutually beneficial relationship between Hamilton and Paynesville, with Empowerment Squared as the official facilitator. This relationship aims to foster cultural exchange, mutual understanding, and cooperation in various domains, including economic development, education, health, and community development.
Photo Caption: Mayor of Paynesville, Robert Soluntul Bestman at Sister Cities singing ceremony.
This signing was completed by Andrea Horwath, Mayor of Hamilton, and Robert Soluntul Bestman, Mayor of Paynesville. This is the City of Hamilton’s 11th Sister City relationship and is historic as it marks the first Sister City relationship between Hamilton and a city in Africa, and reflects Hamilton’s growing diversity, contributions of newcomers, and international engagement.
The relationship between Hamilton and Paynesville is highlighted by the Liberian Learning Center. The Liberian Learning Center is a collaborative project led by Empowerment Squared in partnership with Rotary International, Rotary Club of Hamilton, Rotary Club of Monrovia, Paynesville City Corporation, mcCallumSather, Hamilton Public Library, and Tri Buchanan Development Corporation. The Center is being built in multiple phases on the site of Paynesville City Hall and will include Liberia’s first postwar comprehensive learning center and library, co-working and business incubation spaces, sports and recreation facilities, and event facilities.
The grand opening of Phase 1 of the Liberian Learning Center happened on December 13th, 2024. Empowerment Squared is currently running programs in Liberia, which is expanding now that the Center is open.
This virtual ceremony was open to the public and all members of the community. The recording of the virtual signing ceremony can be viewed below.
“Empowerment Squared and its community, inspired by the vision of their founder Leo Nupolu Johnson, have done exceptional work over the past 15 years to support newcomers to Hamilton and Canada. They have extended their commitment and expertise internationally in Liberia and I am proud of the work of Hamilton Public Library, McMaster University, and other local organizations who are contributing to this growing exchange of research, culture, and development initiatives. This collaboration and partnership is reflected in this historic Sister City relationship ”
– Andrea Howath, Mayor, City of Hamilton
“Paynesville City Corporation is a partner to the Liberian Learning Center and welcomes the project on the grounds of our city hall. Our engagement with organizations and leaders from Hamilton has resulted in an exciting and innovative relationship that we look forward to building on for years to come. Our delegation from Liberia looks forward to meeting with colleagues from across the City of Hamilton to build mutually enriching bilateral relationships across our portfolios. We thank Hamiltonians and Canadians for their support and I am honoured to sign to commemorate our Sister City relationship.”
– Robert S. Bestman, II, Mayor, Paynesville City Corporation
“Empowerment Squared is honoured to facilitate this occasion, marking the establishment of a Sister City relationship between Hamilton and Paynesville. This partnership is a powerful testament to the shared values of community empowerment, education, and global collaboration that unite our cities. Through this bond, we are building bridges that will foster mutual growth, understanding, and development, both in Canada and
Liberia. Our collective efforts will continue to create opportunities that uplift and empower communities, reflecting our commitment to creating a world where everyone has the tools and support they need to thrive.” – Leo Nupolu Johnson, Chief Empowerment Officer, Empowerment Squared
Media Coverage
About Empowerment Squared
Empowerment Squared is a registered Canadian charitable organization that is building a world where everyone is empowered with the tools and opportunities to thrive and contribute to society. The organization empowers newcomer, racialized and marginalized communities in Canada and Africa through educational programming, professional skills development and entrepreneurship, sports and recreation programming, and advocacy and leadership initiatives. It has supported more than 5,000 newcomer youth and families in Canada since its inception.
About the City of Hamilton
Hamilton is located in the province of Ontario, Canada. With a population of over half a million residents, it is a vibrant city known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and strong sense of community. Nestled between the western shores of Lake Ontario and the picturesque Niagara Escarpment, Hamilton boasts a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty. The city is a hub for healthcare, education, and advanced manufacturing, and is home to renowned institutions like McMaster University and Mohawk College. Committed to sustainable growth and innovation, Hamilton continues to evolve while preserving its heritage and environment.
About the Paynesville City Corporation
Paynesville City Corporation (PCC) is the governing body of Paynesville, the largest city in Montserrado County, Liberia. As a key administrative and economic hub, Paynesville is known for its vibrant communities, commercial activities, and strategic location near the capital, Monrovia. The city is committed to providing essential services to its residents, promoting sustainable urban development, and enhancing the quality of life for all. Under the leadership of the City Mayor and the City Council, PCC focuses on infrastructure development, public health, sanitation, and community engagement.
Contact
Chantelle Ashley
Manager, International
Empowerment Squared
c.ashley@empowermentsquared.org
(905) 745-2505