afrol News, 7 October - Young people across Liberia will get their shot at fame as national auditions get under way for a televised music contest in the West African country, the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) announced today as it helped launched the event.

The talent hunt for Liberians under the age of 20 to compete in “A Star is Born” was launched at the weekend during a joint event, hosted by the government and UNMIL in the capital, Monrovia.

Describing music and culture as “uniting forces in any society that bring people together and help build a stronger Liberia for tomorrow,” UNMIL Director of Mission Support Stephen Lieberman said the peacekeeping operation was proud to collaborate on the initiative with the government and sponsors.

“There is a price that comes with this - this is not free,” said Mr Lieberman. “We look at the musical talent as a way to help us to help you convey the message to all the people of Liberia; important messages for you the youth of Liberia and for the future of Liberia.”

The nationwide auditions for A Star is Born 2009-2010 series kicked off this week to select the 15 best singers who will be invited to a music academy in Monrovia.

At the academy, the participants will attend workshops, including sessions on sexual exploitation and abuse, HIV/AIDS and good citizenship.

In recent years, A Star is Born has produced young talents who have been instrumental in serving as role models for other young people and also helping to spread messages on social issues, UNMIL said in a news release.

The weekend launch prominently featured last year’s winner, Nicholas Buigar, who recently participated in a West African competition in Lagos, Nigeria, where he finished first runner-up.

By staff writer

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