Author name: Faustina Yeboah

Virtual University

Many Salaried Workers Are Living in Financial Emergency Without Knowing It, Says EDC Investment Limited MD, Paul Mante

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Managing Director of Ecobank Development Corporation Investment Limited, Paul Mante, has disclosed that many salaried workers are living in what he describes as a financial emergency because they would be unable to sustain their normal lifestyle for six months if their salaries suddenly stopped. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University with host Pastor Albert Ocran, Mr. Mante urged individuals and families to conduct a midyear review of their finances, just as businesses assess their performance halfway through the year, to determine whether they are making progress toward financial independence. According to him, anyone who cannot maintain their current standard of living for at least six months without a salary should treat the situation as an emergency and begin taking deliberate steps to change it. “If you answer that question and you will not survive for more than six months, you are in a critical state. It is life-threatening. You need to see a financial doctor for an emergency surgery,” he said. Drawing on more than two decades of experience in the financial sector, Mr. Mante explained that financial independence begins with changing one’s mindset about money. He said many people focus only on earning an income but fail to retain and grow it, leaving them financially exposed despite years of employment. He identified three stages of personal financial management as receiving money, retaining money, and reproducing money through investments. While many people are taught how to earn an income, he noted that very few are taught how to preserve wealth or make money. The Managing Director attributed the country’s low level of financial literacy to the fact that money management is rarely taught either at home or in school. As a result, many people enter the workforce without the knowledge needed to build long-term financial security. He encouraged workers to increase their earning capacity by acquiring new skills, creating multiple sources of income, and investing consistently instead of depending solely on their monthly salaries. He also advised individuals to invest at least 20 percent of their income and avoid allowing lifestyle changes to consume every salary increase. According to him, financial discipline today creates the freedom to make choices later in life based on purpose rather than financial pressure. Mr. Mante further cautioned against procrastination and excuses, encouraging people to begin their financial independence journey immediately regardless of their current income level. “The best time you should have started your journey towards financial independence was years ago. The next best time is now,” he said. Watch the full episode here… https://www.youtube.com/live/Bbg6-uDUr7k?si=xGzSWjP6UE3qf2JM 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 (YouTube)  and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

Hangout

Against Impossible Odds: Vanessa Rich Bennett’s Extraordinary Journey

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What happens when every medical prediction points in one direction, yet you choose to hold on to hope? For Vanessa Rich Bennett, that question became deeply personal after doctors advised that her pregnancy was unlikely to continue following serious complications at just 14 weeks. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, she reflected on a journey that tested her faith, challenged medical expectations, and ultimately reshaped her purpose. Rather than allowing her experience to remain a private family story, Madam Bennett now uses it to encourage families facing difficult pregnancies to remain informed, ask questions, work closely with healthcare professionals, and refuse to lose hope too quickly. Her daughter, Heavenly, was eventually born at just 26 weeks, weighing only 0.9 kilograms and facing several serious health complications. Today, however, Heavenly is thriving, a reality Madam Bennett describes as evidence that difficult beginnings do not always determine the final outcome. Throughout the conversation, Madam Bennett stressed that her journey was not about ignoring medical advice. Instead, she said it taught her the importance of understanding every diagnosis, asking questions, researching available treatment options, and partnering with doctors throughout the process. She also described faith as the foundation that carried her family through months of uncertainty. “Everything about my story is faith,” she said, explaining that every challenge she has experienced has prepared her to speak from lived experience and encourage others walking similar paths. Today, Madam Bennett shares her experience through speaking engagements and her book, 27 Weeks of Courage, hoping it reminds others that even when circumstances appear impossible, courage, knowledge, and hope still have a place. Her appearance on Springboard Hangout served as more than a personal testimony. It was a reminder that behind many stories of survival are difficult decisions, resilient families, dedicated healthcare professionals, and the determination to keep believing when the odds appear stacked against you. Watch the full conversation here: https://www.youtube.com/live/5ft_c0bZMGk?si=9u5m_K5R2Lrqs4bG About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences aimed at educating, entertaining, and equipping the next generation. The programme airs every Saturday at 4:00 PM on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel on Facebook and YouTube. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

News

Comfort Ocran Calls for Greater Investment in Ghana’s Youth to Secure the Nation’s Future

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Ghana’s greatest natural resource is its young people. With more than half of the population under the age of 35, the country has a vibrant generation filled with creativity, ambition, resilience, and innovation. Across entrepreneurship, technology, agriculture, education, and the creative arts, young Ghanaians continue to demonstrate enormous potential to drive economic growth and national transformation. Unlocking this potential, however, requires more than hope. It requires deliberate investment in skills development, education, innovation, and opportunities that enable young people to thrive. Speaking at the recent Ghana Futures Dialogue, held under the theme “Ghana 2050: What Must We Build Today?”, Executive Director of Springboard Road Show Foundation, Comfort Ocran, said Ghana’s future prosperity will depend largely on how intentionally the nation prepares and positions its young people for leadership, productivity, and inclusive growth. She stressed that by placing youth empowerment at the centre of policy and national development, Ghana can transform its youthful population into a powerful engine for national prosperity. “Every young person has potential,” she said. “What they lack is opportunity.” Turning Potential into National Prosperity To transform Ghana’s youth potential into national prosperity, the Executive Director proposed five key pathways: Critical Thinking, Skills, Enterprise, Linkages, and Employment. According to her, youth development must be treated as a deliberate and structured process rather than a one-time intervention. She also underscored the importance of building linkages that connect young people to markets, networks, institutions, industry leaders, and opportunities that can expand their reach and impact. Many promising youth-led initiatives, she noted, do not fail because of a lack of potential, but because young people remain disconnected from the ecosystems that support growth and scale. These linkages, she explained, are essential for creating sustainable employment opportunities. When young people are equipped with relevant skills, supported to build enterprises, and connected to the right networks, they become active contributors to economic growth rather than passive job seekers. “If we invest well in one young person, we invest in a whole village,” Comfort Ocran said. “Building Ghana’s future requires that young people are given the opportunity and the inspiration to become multipliers and agents of national prosperity.” Ghana 2050: What We Must Build Today Looking ahead to 2050, Comfort Ocran identified three priorities that Ghana must pursue to prepare its youth for the future: Her closing remarks captured the urgency of the conversation. “Our young people do not need our politics. They need our partnership.” The Ghana Futures Dialogue, organised by the Brillianta Foundation, brings together leaders, students, academics, businesses, and policymakers to examine what Ghana must build today to thrive by 2050. Through dialogue and collaboration, the event explores leadership, education, innovation, community development, and national transformation as foundations for Ghana’s future prosperity. About Springboard Road Show Foundation. Springboard Road Show Foundation (SRSF) is a Ghanaian non-profit organisation committed to raising the next generation of African leaders and entrepreneurs. Through youth mobilisation, mindset change, skills development, and national engagement platforms, SRSF supports young women, men, persons with disability and displaced persons to build agency, unlock opportunity, and contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s socio-economic development. About Brillianta Foundation Brillianta Foundation is a United Kingdom-based youth development organisation dedicated to advancing youth empowerment initiatives, equipping young people with future-ready skills, strengthening organisations and industries, and fostering international partnerships that support youth prosperity.

Virtual University

“Comfort Is the Biggest Enemy of Personal Growth” –  Maame Ekua Gaisey

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Maame Ekua Gaisey, The People, Managing Partner, Five Six Five,  has cautioned that comfort is one of the biggest barriers to personal growth, saying many people fail to reach their full potential because they become satisfied with where they are instead of choosing growth despite the discomfort it brings. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University with Rev. Albert Ocran, she said lasting personal development is a deliberate process that requires individuals to continually make difficult choices, confront their fears, and pursue a better version of themselves every day. According to her, growth is never automatic. It demands intentional decisions every day, often requiring people to leave familiar environments, confront their fears, and accept the uncertainty that comes with becoming a better version of themselves. “Comfort is where you miss the opportunity to move,” she said, explaining that discomfort is one of the strongest triggers for progress because it pushes people to pursue more than their current circumstances. Madam Gaisey noted that the journey of personal development starts with self-awareness and honesty. She said individuals must first understand who they are, where they want to be, and honestly assess the gap between their current reality and their desired future before meaningful change can begin. She stressed that many people remain stuck because they avoid asking themselves difficult questions or reflecting deeply on their lives. Instead, they become occupied with constant activity without making real progress. “The best gift anybody could give themselves is to discover themselves,” she said, adding that self-discovery requires continuous reflection and the courage to confront uncomfortable truths. Drawing from her own life, she recounted how she abandoned her childhood ambition of becoming a medical doctor after recognizing that her true strengths and passion lay elsewhere. Despite the difficulty of changing direction, she said making that decision allowed her to pursue the path she was truly created for. She encouraged people to focus first on the kind of person they want to become before concentrating on positions, titles, or material success. She explained that developing character, values, curiosity, kindness, and a commitment to continuous learning naturally positions people for greater opportunities. The leadership coach also advised individuals to simplify their personal development goals by concentrating on no more than three priorities at a time. Attempting to pursue too many objectives simultaneously, she said, often leads to frustration and little meaningful progress. She further urged people to seek coaches, mentors, and trusted supporters who can ask difficult questions, provide honest feedback, and help them remain accountable throughout their growth journey. Madam Gaisey also cautioned against allowing unnecessary distractions and outside opinions to derail personal progress. She said people should clearly define both what they intend to pursue and what they deliberately choose to avoid, since eliminating distractions is as important as setting goals. Watch full episode here https://www.youtube.com/live/gRbDFwT6Jhc?si=I2g3tgRLMLHlM1rY 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 & Albert Ocran (Facebook & YouTube)  and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. The discussion forms part of an ongoing series exploring the various roles of managers in organizations and the skills required to lead people, drive performance, and achieve institutional goals. Through conversations with experienced leaders, the series provides practical lessons for current and aspiring managers. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

Hangout

Integrity Opens Doors You Cannot Yet See, Angela Berko Tells Young People

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Young people should treat every opportunity they receive with integrity because today’s responsibilities could become the foundation for tomorrow’s leadership, Ghanaian healthcare entrepreneur Angela Berko has advised. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, the Co-Founder and Director of McAngel Home Visiting Nurses in the United States said many people fail to recognize that the habits they build while working for others often prepare them for opportunities they have not yet imagined. Drawing from her own journey, the Registered Nurse recalled how, as a young employee at Legacy and Legacy, she was entrusted with significant responsibilities, including managing company finances and accounting for thousands of books sold during nationwide programmes. At the time, she simply focused on carrying out her duties faithfully, without realizing the experience was preparing her to one day lead her own healthcare organization. “It started there at that time. I did not know it, but it started there,” she said, explaining that the discipline, accountability, and attention to detail she developed early in her career continue to shape how she runs her business today. The Director, who now leads a home healthcare company employing between 40 and 50 professionals in the United States, said success in leadership begins long before someone starts a business. According to her, young professionals should approach every assignment with honesty because they never know where the experience may lead. “Whatever your hands are found to do now, whether you are working for yourself or someone else, have that level of integrity because you never know the stage being set for you as you are learning, studying, and watching,” she said. She also cautioned young people against rushing into entrepreneurship before they have gained the necessary knowledge and experience. “There are times we are in a hurry to move and be on our own, and you may not be ready. The spotlight can be very bright, and when you are not ready, it will burn you to a crisp. Study quietly, sometimes in the shadows. You do not know what you are learning until you are put on the spot,” she advised. She further encouraged young people not to underestimate their potential, saying every individual possesses abilities that can produce remarkable results if they remain disciplined and believe in themselves. “We all have such potential in us that has been put in us by God, and the reach of our dreams is only limited by our thoughts,” she said. Reflecting on her own journey from serving as an intern in Ghana to becoming the head of a successful healthcare company in the United States, The co-Founder said she would encourage her younger self to begin the journey without hesitation because every lesson learned along the way eventually contributed to her success. Watch the full episode here:  https://www.youtube.com/live/bRBxcIXnVd8?si=ttfxmMt2sC7d5w04 About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences aimed at educating, entertaining, and equipping the next generation. The programme airs every Saturday at 4:00 PM on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel on Facebook and YouTube. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

Hangout

Young Creatives Must Choose Originality Over Imitation, Designers Advise

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Young people seeking to build successful fashion brands should choose originality over imitation and remain true to their creative identity, fashion entrepreneurs Sarah Boadu and Goldyn Adams have advised. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, the two designers said while it is important to learn from experienced professionals, lasting success comes from creating work that reflects one’s own vision rather than copying what others are doing. Sarah Boadu, Founder and Creative Director of Self-Titled International Brand, said one of the biggest mistakes young creatives make is abandoning their originality in an attempt to follow industry trends. She revealed that trying to imitate other designers almost caused her to lose her passion for fashion. “The best times I’ve had in fashion have been when I’m not looking at anyone else,” she said. “Just be yourself. Don’t copy. Be original.” According to her, returning to her authentic style not only renewed her passion for fashion but also attracted clients who appreciated her unique approach. She encouraged young entrepreneurs to understand who they are as creatives instead of trying to replicate someone else’s success. Goldyn Adams, Fashion Designer and Travel Look Consultant, shared a similar view, adding that originality gives every brand its identity, but creativity alone is not enough to build a successful business. “Creativity gets your brand an identity, but business sustains the brand,” she said. “You can have all the talent in the world, but you need the business mindset to keep going.” Mrs. Boadu further urged entrepreneurs to understand the commercial side of their businesses by carrying out market research and listening to customers instead of relying solely on their own preferences. “You are not your own customer,” she said, explaining that business owners must identify what their target market truly wants if they hope to build sustainable brands. Miss. Adams also stressed the importance of discipline and purpose, adding that every entrepreneur will encounter difficult moments, but those who remain focused on why they started are more likely to succeed. “You definitely have to keep going when it’s tough,” she said. “Your purpose and discipline keep you going.” Both designers agreed that originality, continuous learning, business knowledge, and discipline are essential for anyone hoping to build a brand that remains relevant and successful over the long term. Watch the full episode here… About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences aimed at educating, entertaining, and equipping the next generation. The programme airs every Saturday at 4:00 PM on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel on Facebook and YouTube.

Virtual University

Children Without Active Fathers Face Greater Risk of Social Challenges, Elder Amos Kevin-Annan Reveals

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Motivational speaker, author, and Chief Executive Officer of Hearts and Habits Foundation, Elder Amos Kevin-Annan, has called for greater father involvement in the lives of children, revealing that the absence of active fatherhood can have far-reaching consequences for families and society. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, with host Pastor Albert Ocran, Elder Annan said children need more than a father’s physical presence. According to him, fathers must be actively engaged in the lives of their children if they are to provide the stability, guidance, and security young people need to thrive. Citing findings from studies on fatherhood, he added that children with active fathers are significantly less likely to experience teenage pregnancy and incarceration, stressing that father involvement plays a critical role in shaping a child’s future. “Fathers should be reminded that they are needed in the life of the child to bring some modicum of stability,” he said. The CEO noted that many fathers focus heavily on providing financially for their families while overlooking the equally important responsibility of building emotional connections with their children. He explained that a father’s role extends beyond being a provider to becoming a source of encouragement, protection, mentorship, and support. He warned that many homes are experiencing what he described as “the presence of the absent father”, a situation where fathers are physically available but remain disconnected from the daily experiences of their children. “If you’re a father, when you are home, your presence must be noticed. When you are not at home, your absence must be felt,” he said. According to him, fathers must intentionally create time for meaningful conversations, listen to their children, maintain eye contact during interactions, and share their personal experiences and struggles. Such openness, he said, helps children relate better to their parents and gives them confidence to deal with their own challenges. The speaker also urged fathers to pay attention to their emotional well-being and avoid suffering in silence during difficult periods. He observed that many men internalize pain, job losses, financial struggles, and disappointments because they feel pressure to appear strong at all times. He encouraged families and communities to show greater understanding and support to men going through difficult seasons, noting that encouragement often produces better outcomes than criticism. Reflecting on how fathers can improve their impact, he advised men to learn from their own childhood experiences, remain present in the lives of their families, reduce distractions, and prioritize meaningful relationships over constant work. Elder Annan emphasized that while providing for a family is important, fathers should not sacrifice connection for achievement. He said children often remember the time, attention, and interest their fathers showed in them long after material provisions have been forgotten. The discussion formed part of a special Father’s Day edition of Springboard, Your Virtual University, where Elder Annan shared insights on the importance of fatherhood and the lasting influence fathers have on the development of children and families. Watch full episode here… https://www.youtube.com/live/fM5B1zW3Bvs?si=nRc3ZEJh1Kliq9wU 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 & Albert Ocran (Facebook & YouTube)  and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. The discussion forms part of an ongoing series exploring the various roles of managers in organizations and the skills required to lead people, drive performance, and achieve institutional goals. Through conversations with experienced leaders, the series provides practical lessons for current and aspiring managers. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

Virtual University

Children Without Active Fathers Face Greater Risk of Social Challenges, Elder Amos Kevin-Annan Reveals

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Motivational speaker, author, and Chief Executive Officer of Hearts and Habits Foundation, Elder Amos Kevin-Annan, has called for greater father involvement in the lives of children, revealing that the absence of active fatherhood can have far-reaching consequences for families and society. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, with host Pastor. Albert Ocran, Elder Annan said children need more than a father’s physical presence. According to him, fathers must be actively engaged in the lives of their children if they are to provide the stability, guidance, and security young people need to thrive. Citing findings from studies on fatherhood, he added that children with active fathers are significantly less likely to experience teenage pregnancy and incarceration, stressing that father involvement plays a critical role in shaping a child’s future. “Fathers should be reminded that they are needed in the life of the child to bring some modicum of stability,” he said. The CEO noted that many fathers focus heavily on providing financially for their families while overlooking the equally important responsibility of building emotional connections with their children. He explained that a father’s role extends beyond being a provider to becoming a source of encouragement, protection, mentorship, and support. He warned that many homes are experiencing what he described as “the presence of the absent father”, a situation where fathers are physically available but remain disconnected from the daily experiences of their children. “If you’re a father, when you are home, your presence must be noticed. When you are not at home, your absence must be felt,” he said. According to him, fathers must intentionally create time for meaningful conversations, listen to their children, maintain eye contact during interactions, and share their personal experiences and struggles. Such openness, he said, helps children relate better to their parents and gives them confidence to deal with their own challenges. The speaker also urged fathers to pay attention to their emotional well-being and avoid suffering in silence during difficult periods. He observed that many men internalize pain, job losses, financial struggles, and disappointments because they feel pressure to appear strong at all times. He encouraged families and communities to show greater understanding and support to men going through difficult seasons, noting that encouragement often produces better outcomes than criticism. Reflecting on how fathers can improve their impact, he advised men to learn from their own childhood experiences, remain present in the lives of their families, reduce distractions, and prioritize meaningful relationships over constant work. Elder Annan emphasized that while providing for a family is important, fathers should not sacrifice connection for achievement. He said children often remember the time, attention, and interest their fathers showed in them long after material provisions have been forgotten. The discussion formed part of a special Father’s Day edition of Springboard, Your Virtual University, where Elder Annan shared insights on the importance of fatherhood and the lasting influence fathers have on the development of children and families. Watch full episode here… https://www.youtube.com/live/fM5B1zW3Bvs?si=A-VUm47aHwMKQy1d 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 & Albert Ocran (Facebook & YouTube)  and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. The discussion forms part of an ongoing series exploring the various roles of managers in organizations and the skills required to lead people, drive performance, and achieve institutional goals. Through conversations with experienced leaders, the series provides practical lessons for current and aspiring managers. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

Hangout

Ghana Risks Losing Its Food Identity Unless Local Beverages Become Mainstream, Entrepreneurs Warn

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Ghana risks losing an important part of its cultural identity if local foods and beverages continue to be treated as occasional products rather than everyday consumer choices, entrepreneurs Emmanuella Safianand Caleb O. Adjah, co-founders of Zaaki Beverages, have cautioned. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, the entrepreneurs said younger generations are becoming increasingly disconnected from traditional Ghanaian beverages, creating both a cultural challenge and a missed economic opportunity. According to Mr. Adjah, many local drinks remain largely absent from everyday consumption despite their long history and nutritional value. He noted that products such as asana, lamugin, and tamarind-based drinks are often only available at events, making them less visible to younger consumers. “Especially for the generation to come, they do not even have an idea of some of these local beverages because they are not really exposed to them,” he said. He argued that Ghana needs to have broader conversations about local foods and beverages throughout the year rather than limiting attention to them during celebrations such as Ghana Month. The entrepreneur expressed concern that many traditional Ghanaian foods and drinks are gradually disappearing from daily life, warning that this trend could weaken cultural identity over time. “Gradually, we are losing our identity as Ghanaians and Africans, so it is one thing we want to channel, that our local beverages and local foods are the best way to go,” Mr. Adjah stated. Beyond preserving culture, he added that increased patronage of local beverages could create opportunities across the agricultural value chain by generating demand for farmers who produce raw materials such as millet and tamarind. Madam Emmanuella Safian traced the inspiration for Zaaki Beverages to her childhood in northern Ghana, where her grandmother regularly prepared traditional drinks for the family. After relocating to Accra and searching for a business idea, she revisited those experiences and identified an opportunity to transform local beverages into commercially viable products. The pair revealed that they spent several years studying ingredients, refining production processes, and collecting consumer feedback before fully entering the market. What began with fewer than 20 bottles distributed among friends has grown into a business producing about 2,000 bottles monthly. The founders attributed part of their growth to consistency and a willingness to listen to customers, stressing that maintaining product quality is essential for long-term success. Madam Emmanuella also encouraged young people interested in entrepreneurship to remain focused and patient, rather than seeking quick results.  “Consistency is the best. Just stay focused and keep pushing. You will get there,” she advised. Both entrepreneurs agreed that local beverages represent more than a business opportunity. They believe the sector can contribute to healthier consumer choices, create jobs across the value chain, and help preserve an important part of Ghana’s cultural heritage for future generations. Watch the full episode here … https://www.youtube.com/live/v-N5zt45b7I?si=NcOFarICZ2rYmBWP About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences aimed at educating, entertaining, and equipping the next generation. The programme airs every Saturday at 4:00 PM on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel on Facebook and YouTube. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

Hangout

Young Entrepreneurs Must Reinvest, Not Overspend, Experts Advise

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Young entrepreneurs must resist the temptation to spend business earnings on lifestyle upgrades and instead reinvest their profits to achieve sustainable growth, skincare entrepreneur Nancy Tawiah and banking professional Roland Kwame Akafia have advised. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, the two experts stressed that while passion can spark a business idea, long-term success depends on discipline, financial prudence, and a commitment to growth. According to Mr. Akafia, one of the biggest mistakes young entrepreneurs make is treating business income as personal income too early in their journey. He added that many business owners become excited by early earnings and begin spending on cars, fashion, and other lifestyle expenses instead of strengthening their businesses. “You need to understand that the business money is different from your personal money,” he said, explaining that entrepreneurs who fail to reinvest often struggle to scale and sustain their ventures. He noted that social media has intensified the challenge by creating pressure for young people to imitate lifestyles they see online without understanding the years of effort and sacrifice that may have gone into building that success. The banker urged entrepreneurs to focus on budgeting, cash flow management, and disciplined reinvestment, describing these as essential building blocks for any growing enterprise. He also encouraged business owners to maintain proper financial records to help them make informed decisions and track their progress. His views were echoed by Nancy Tawiah, whose organic skincare business has grown over the past 15 years from a small passion project into an enterprise serving customers in Ghana and beyond. Madam Tawiah recounted how she started by producing skincare products for friends after developing an interest in natural wellness and herbal remedies. Rather than relying on loans, she gradually expanded the business through savings and continuous learning. Today, she produces close to 60 skincare products and says the business has enabled her to support her family, educate her children, and achieve financial independence. Reflecting on her entrepreneurial journey, she attributed her growth to focus, determination, and hard work, qualities she believes are essential for anyone seeking to build a successful business. The entrepreneur also highlighted opportunities for young people willing to turn their interests into productive ventures, noting that passion becomes profitable when combined with consistency and commitment. Both guests agreed that sustainable business growth requires patience and discipline, with Mr. Akafia identifying discipline as the defining factor that separates successful entrepreneurs from those who struggle to build lasting enterprises. He encouraged young people to cultivate the habit of saving and investing early, stressing that wealth creation often results from small, consistent decisions over time rather than quick wins. Watch the full episode here … About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences aimed at educating, entertaining, and equipping the next generation. The programme airs every Saturday at 4:00 PM on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel on Facebook and YouTube. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation