Charlotte, NC USA — March 8, 2026

Community leader Wallah Richardson Jr. has announced the upcoming launch of The Pepper Bird TV Network, a new online streaming platform designed to amplify the voices, stories, and achievements of the Liberian community in Charlotte and across the diaspora.

The network, which is expected to launch this spring, will stream across multiple online platforms including Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, and other digital channels, allowing audiences worldwide to connect with the Liberian community in Charlotte.

According to Richardson, the vision behind The Pepper Bird is simple yet powerful.

“We want to create a space for every voice and a place for every neighbor,” Richardson said. “This network will take people from behind their screens and connect them directly with our community.”

A Platform for Community, Education, and Opportunity

The Pepper Bird TV Network will feature a wide range of weekly programs covering educational topics, community issues, cultural discussions, and professional insights. Many of the programs will be designed and supported by local educators, professionals, and community leaders who aim to enlighten and inspire viewers.

The network also plans to showcase community initiatives, local services, and religious activities, helping to highlight the vibrant contributions of the Liberian community throughout Charlotte.

Another major focus will be business promotion. The platform intends to spotlight Liberian-owned businesses in the area, providing digital exposure that connects local entrepreneurs with broader global audiences.

In addition, the network plans to stream live community events and recreational activities, helping strengthen engagement and unity among residents while encouraging sustainable growth and development.

Mentorship and Youth Development

A key component of the initiative will be a mentorship program for young people interested in media and broadcasting. Through this program, experienced media professionals will train youth in areas such as broadcast production, storytelling, and digital content creation, giving them valuable skills for the future.

Richardson believes this initiative will help empower the next generation while strengthening the community’s voice in digital media.

“This platform is truly for the people and by the people,” he said.

Leadership Structure Announced

As the project continues to grow, Richardson has also announced a leadership structure designed to ensure transparency and long-term sustainability. While he remains the Founder and CEO, the network will be overseen operationally by a General Manager and a Board of Trustees.

Following consultations with advisors, Richardson announced the appointment of Mrs. Welde D. Williams as General Manager of The Pepper Bird TV Network.

Williams will oversee all programs and services and will have the authority to develop new roles and build a team to expand the network’s reach and impact.

In response to her appointment, Williams expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve.

“I sincerely thank the team for choosing me as their General Manager. I am grateful to accept the role of GM at Pepper Bird Network,” Williams said.

“This opportunity goes beyond the title, offering a chance to lead, develop, and strengthen a platform committed to meaningful impact and growth. I truly appreciate the trust placed in me and look forward to working with an outstanding team to expand the vision, deepen the mission, and build lasting influence through this effort.”

Williams emphasized that leadership is about responsibility and service.

“Leadership involves service, strategy, and stewardship—and I am ready to begin this new chapter with purpose,” she said. “Thank you to everyone who has supported us and contributed financially. Your resources will be used wisely. The journey continues.”

Call for Guests and Community Leaders

As the launch approaches, The Pepper Bird TV Network is inviting professionals, community leaders, and individuals with expertise to participate as guests on upcoming programs.

The organization says it is particularly interested in individuals who are passionate about educating, empowering, and strengthening the community.

Community Support and Fundraising

The Pepper Bird has been supported by a growing number of community members who have contributed financially toward the purchase of professional broadcasting equipment needed to produce high-quality programming.

The project is working toward a $4,000 fundraising goal, and organizers say every contribution plays an important role in bringing the vision to life.

Donors who have contributed to the initiative include:

• Eric Twum — $250

• Wallah Richardson Jr. — $250

• Welde — $50

• William Russ Sr. — $50

• Rodney Peabody — $50

• Mother Annie Jones — $100

• Anonymous Donor — $500

• Gabby Roberts — $22

• Anonymous Donor — $100

• Anonymous Donor — $100

• Ricks Mensah — $50

• Francis Sio — $50

• Brima Turay — $53

• Derek Macauley — $50

• Maxwell Gibson — $50

• Malo Sioh — $50

• Melvin Massaquoi — $50

• Alston Johnson — $50

• Catherine Dennis — $35

• Anonymous Donor — $20

• Barbara Davis-Gbarbea — $50

• Richard Butler Jr. — $75

• NEOK $50 — https://neok.io

Organizers say donor names will continue to be recorded and acknowledged unless contributors prefer to remain anonymous.

A Network Built by the Community

As the launch date approaches, Richardson says the mission remains focused on building a platform that truly represents the community.

By combining education, mentorship, business promotion, and digital storytelling, The Pepper Bird TV Network hopes to connect the Liberian community in Charlotte with audiences across the world.

“Together, we are building a network designed for the people and by the people,” Richardson said.

It is with great sorrow that the Paasewe, Shermans, Sandy, Cromer’s, and Cameron families announce the passing of their beloved son, grandchild, nephew, and cousin, Alfie Paasewe, on October 22, 2025, following a prolonged illness. He lived a full and meaningful life, with so much love, joy, cheerfulness and always had a smile that melted everyone’s heart wherever he went.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025, 5pm-8pm at Miller Funeral Services, 3325 Winton Road South Rochester, NY 14623, following Funeral Services on Saturday, November 15, 2025, 10am-11am at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 2000 Highland Avenue, Rochester, NY 14618.

For those who wish to honor Alfie’s memory with a contribution, in lieu of flowers, donations may be sent via Zelle, Cash App, Venmo, to his mother, Angela Sandy at (585) 590-4085 on behalf of the family.

Lovingly announced by his father and mother, Thomas Gai Paasewe and Angela Sandy, on behalf of the family.