Founder of the Design and Technology Institute, Constance Swaniker, has urged young people to take responsibility for their future by building skills, pursuing purpose, and creating opportunities for themselves rather than waiting for employment.
Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, with host Pastor Albert Ocran as part of the ongoing Exploring Women in Leadership series, she said the future of work demands a shift in mindset, especially among young Africans entering an uncertain job market.
According to her, the traditional expectation of securing ready-made jobs is no longer reliable, making it critical for young people to think differently about work and success. She explained that many of the jobs available in the future will require high-level skills that technology cannot easily replace, particularly in areas such as welding, plumbing, and electrical work.
She pointed out that the reality of the labour market is already visible, citing the overwhelming number of applicants chasing limited opportunities as a sign of what lies ahead. In her view, the answer lies in equipping young people with practical skills and an entrepreneurial mindset that allows them to create value and employ others.
“We are entering a world where jobs are limited and highly competitive. Young people must begin to see themselves not as job seekers but as job creators. When you combine skills with the right mindset, you are not waiting to be chosen; you are positioning yourself to build something of your own,” she said.
Reflecting on her own journey, Madam Swaniker said she did not start out as a top academic performer and only came into her own later in life. She described herself as a late developer who had to find her voice and build confidence from within, adding that her story should encourage young people who may not fit traditional academic expectations.
“I was not the A student people expected to succeed. I had to discover my strength and prove to myself that I could become something. You must be your own biggest cheerleader because at the end of the day, you are the one responsible for your journey,” she noted.
She also emphasised that purpose plays a central role in leadership, explaining that her work is driven by a commitment to transforming the lives of young people. For her, leadership is not about personal success but about creating pathways for others to grow and thrive.
Beyond technical skills, she stressed the importance of character, discipline, and values in shaping successful individuals. She revealed that a significant portion of training at her institute focuses on soft skills such as communication, emotional intelligence, and personal conduct.
“Technical ability alone is not enough. We are building people who can think, communicate, and carry themselves well. When you are not there, your values must speak for you. That is what makes the difference in the real world,” she explained.
Touching on gender inclusion, she highlighted the growing number of young women entering traditionally male-dominated fields such as welding and industrial work, describing it as a powerful sign of progress. She said many of these young women are excelling and redefining what is possible.
She noted that seeing confident, skilled women in such spaces is not just inspiring but necessary for national development, adding that storytelling around these successes must be amplified to change long-held perceptions.
Madam Swaniker further called for a collective national effort to support young people, stressing that government, industry, and individuals all have a role to play in preparing the next generation.
“If we say it takes a village to raise a child, then we are that village. Everyone of us has a responsibility to create opportunities, mentor, and support young people so they can build a better future,” she said.
About Springboard, Your Virtual University
Springboard, Your Virtual University, is a weekly motivational and personal development broadcast produced by the Springboard Road Show Foundation and hosted by Pastor. Albert Ocran. The broadcast airs every Sunday at 7 PM on Joy 99.7 FM and on Springboard Channel (Facebook & YouTube) and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. The discussion formed part of the special International Women’s Day series dubbed HERizon: Exploring women in leadership.
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