Empowering Future Leaders: Late Honorable Tonye Harry’s Legacy Lives On
The Tonye Harry Charity Foundation awarded scholarships to deserving students from different communities in Degema Local Government Area during its inaugural edition. The event, held on February 21, 2025, at Tonye Harry’s Residence in Harry’s Town, Obu-Ama, was attended by family and friends of the late Tonye Harry, who joined his wife, Her Worship Sotonye Harry, their children, and foundation members to celebrate this milestone.
Rt. Hon. Tonye Ezekiel Harry was a distinguished legislator and astute politician who believed that politics and public office should be about serving the people. He served as Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly from 2007 to 2011 and was still a member of the House representing Degema constituency before his sudden death.
As a philanthropist, the late Hon. Tonye Ezekiel Harry made numerous sacrifices for the enhancement of society. His developmental agenda touched many lives in his community; he established scholarship schemes to support education and empower future leaders. He also indulged in human capacity building, one of his numerous ways of empowerment.
The ceremony marked a significant milestone in the foundation’s mission to turn dreams into reality and uphold a legacy of lasting impact. The foundation demonstrated its commitment to supporting education and empowering future leaders by awarding scholarships to deserving students.
The scholarship recipients received not only financial support but also a promise of continued care till graduation and even master’s degrees for those who excel. During the ceremony, cheques were handed over to the recipients, who were encouraged to utilize the funds for their intended purpose. The foundation also assured them of ongoing support and follow-up to ensure their success.
In a heartfelt speech, Miss Gabriella Harry, daughter of the late Tonye Harry, who spoke on behalf of the family, expressed gratitude to God Almighty for giving them the strength to carry on her father’s legacy. She fondly remembered her father’s passion for education and societal development, saying, “My father loved education and societal development. He always believed that empowering the youth through education was key to building a better future for our community.” She praised the foundation’s efforts to continue her father’s work, saying, “We are proud to see his legacy live on through this foundation, and we are committed to supporting its mission to empower future leaders.”
In a remarkable display of solidarity, the Chairman of Degema Local Government Area, Hon. Dr. Agiriye Monima Harry, pledged to support and partnership with the foundation. This collaboration aims to expand the foundation’s scholarship program.
The event was a testament to the power of philanthropy and community spirit. As the foundation continues to build on the legacy of the late Honorable Tonye Harry, it is clear that his impact will be felt for generations to come.
