By By: Staff Writer
Judge Colston Zuomie, Sr. has completed a rare career transition, moving from a well-known photographer to a member of Liberia’s judiciary. After years of documenting the country’s legal system, he has now been trained and appointed to preside over it, a journey officials are calling a story of perseverance and discipline.
Zuomie’s path began in Tappita, Nimba County. In 1995, while at St. Francis Catholic High School, he learned photography under the guidance of Fr. Justice O’Bryan. After graduating in 1996, he relocated to Monrovia and worked on Broad Street under the late Bob Philips. His skill earned him leadership roles, including Interim President of the National Photographers Union of Liberia and member of its National Advisory Council.
His connection to the law deepened in 2010 when he joined the Liberian National Bar Association as a professional cameraman, a role he held for 15 years. In 2012 he also worked as a contract photographer with the Law Reform Commission. Daily exposure to court proceedings and legal professionals sparked a growing interest in the law itself.
Driven by that interest, Zuomie enrolled in the Professional Magistrates Training Program Cycle 5 at the James A.A. Pierre Judicial Institute. His successful completion of the program marked his official entry into the judiciary, shifting his work from recording justice to administering it.
Now serving on the bench, Judge Zuomie says his transformation was guided by faith and hard work. _“To God be the glory,”_ he stated. His story is being highlighted as an example for young Liberians that with vision and determination, it is possible to reinvent one’s career and contribute to national service in a new capacity.
