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Nkabom Collaborative Opens Agri-Food Opportunities for Young People

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Prof. Richmond Aryeetey, Project Lead of the Nkabom Collaborative, says Ghana’s agri-food sector presents endless business opportunities for young people beyond traditional farming. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with Lady Comfort Ocran, he explained that the initiative, headquartered at the University of Ghana, brings together six universities and partners like the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) to build sustainable food systems. “The agri-food sector is more than just farming. From production to processing, distribution, marketing, and consumption, there is a whole value chain where young people can create businesses and careers,” Prof. Aryeetey said. He added that the program is designed to equip participants with practical skills, mentoring, and financial support. “We identified about 200 young people with business ideas, and after pitching, 100 of them received 1,000 dollars each to develop prototypes,” he revealed. Education Pillar Lead, Dr. Hayford Ayerakwa, outlined the Collaborative’s training pillars, including specialized PhD and short experiential courses in sustainable food systems. “We don’t just do the talking; we engage young people hands-on through field training and industry partnerships so they gain both skills and knowledge,” he said. He stressed that market access is a major focus. “Many times we see bumper harvests in rural areas while urban dwellers struggle to find food. We need young people who can bridge this gap, identify consumers, and link them to producers.” The Collaborative also prioritizes inclusion. According to Prof. Aryeetey, internally displaced persons and persons with disabilities are given special placement in the programs. He shared the example of a visually impaired participant who has advanced in their entrepreneurship track and is now receiving full support. Looking ahead, Prof. Aryeetey said his biggest dream is to see young people lead Ghana’s agri-food sector. “The sector has been dominated by older people for too long. We want to see the next generation empowered, innovating, and achieving great things.” About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centered show hosted by Lady Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences to educate, entertain, and equip the next generation. It airs every Saturday on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel( YouTube ) at 4 pm. By Faustina Yeboah

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It’s Time for Northern Kente to Take the Stage – Winifred Edjeani, Founder, Ekasa Kente

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Founder of Ekasa Kente, Winifred Edjeani, has called for greater recognition of Northern Ghana’s unique Kente tradition while working to empower rural women through weaving and financial literacy. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with Lady Comfort Ocran, she shared how her brand was inspired by a desire to reduce the economic pressures that force women from the north to migrate to southern cities for low-paying jobs. “If I can empower them to make their own money and secure financial freedom where they are, they won’t have to come to Accra to carry heavy loads for tiny wages,” she said. Ms. Edjeani explained that the idea for Ekasa was born after conducting research with 200 Kayayo women during the COVID-19 pandemic, which revealed a lack of financial literacy and economic opportunities in their home communities. A visit to Tamale introduced her to a group of female weavers, leading to a programme that now trains over 30 young women. According to her, beyond fashion, she uses Ekasa as a platform to teach women how to manage their finances, a principle she learned from her father at the age of 13. “As a woman, you need to have your own money. I call it ‘bluff money’. I love to teach women how to make money, how to save it, and how to enjoy it,” she said. She added that the enterprise also supports the Nungua New Life Orphanage annually and provides resources to weaving families in the north, ensuring mothers can work alongside their children in safe environments. “We love and appreciate Ashanti Kente, but it’s time for the Northern Kente to take the stage,” she said. About Springboard HangoutSpringboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Lady Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences to educate, entertain, and equip the next generation. By Faustina Yeboah

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Scrap Metal Artist Jeffery Yeboah Shares His Journey on Springboard Hangout

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Jeffery Kwabena Yeboah, founder of Kae Kwabena Studios, has shared how he started his journey as a scrap metal artist with no prior knowledge of welding, and no financial support, but with a strong desire to succeed. He was speaking on Springboard Hangout with Lady Comfort Ocran in an episode titled Sparking Conversations with Scrap Metal. Mr. Yeboah recounted how his breakthrough came in 2015 when he decided to create tables using old car tires and jute ropes. According to him, the idea gained media attention and drew interest to his work, although it came with some challenges. “People thought I was just making tables, not art,” he said. “And I’ll blame myself for how I communicated it at the time.” Mr. Yeboah stated that he produced planters despite not having any background in welding. “I didn’t know anything about welding when I was asked to make planters for someone,” he said. “I even told her assistant to find someone else. But when she called me directly, I just said yes.” He  further revealed that his move to Accra as a child came with several challenges, but he remained focused on his education and eventually gained admission into the University of Ghana. “I entered Legon with nothing. I had to hustle. I started decorating rooms using PVC stickers just to survive,” he noted. The creative artist stated that his journey has been shaped by many helping hands, which inspired the name of his brand, Kae Kwabena, which means “remember Kwabena” in Akan. “Each time I say the name, I remember the hands that helped me. It keeps me humble and grateful,” he said. About Springboard HangoutSpringboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centered show hosted by Lady Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences to educate, entertain, and equip the next generation. By Faustina Yeboah

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“We’re Selling African Stories to the World” – Leti Arts Marks 15 Years of Cultural Gaming

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Business Development Manager at Leti Arts, Prince Osei, says the company is proud to be telling authentic African stories through comics, animation, and games in a way that is modern, interactive, and relatable for all ages. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with Lady Comfort Ocran, he explained that Leti Arts, founded in 2009, has spent the last 15 years creating culturally rich content that reflects Africa’s history and identity. With over 60 games developed and more than one million downloads across platforms, Prince described their journey as one of impact, growth, and legacy. “At Leti Arts, we are focused on telling African stories with a contemporary feel,” he said. “These aren’t just games for fun,  they’re rooted in African folklore, created for global use, and built to resonate with Africans everywhere.” He explained that the idea was met with skepticism at first, especially by parents who viewed gaming as a waste of time. But over the years, the company has built a strong team, opened doors for young creatives, and proven that gaming can be both meaningful and profitable. “Today, that same thing our parents frowned on is helping us earn a living and even support our families,” he added. Leti Arts now runs regular internship programs with a minimum of 60 participants per cohort. They also support a game design course at Ashesi University to help shape the next generation of African storytellers. “We talk to traditional leaders and people from different ethnic groups to make sure we’re telling the right stories the right way,” he noted. Mr. Osei also pointed out that the global gaming industry is now three times larger than the music, sports, and film industries combined, mainly because these three areas are now being gamified. About Springboard HangoutSpringboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centered show hosted by Lady Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences to educate, entertain, and equip the next generation. By Faustina Yeboah

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“Your Health Is Your Power”– Experts Urge Young People to Eat and Live Better

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 Dietician Madam Etornam Bansah and gym instructor Mr. Julius Siakpornu have stressed the need for young people to take control of their health by paying attention to their diet and committing to regular physical activity. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with Lady Comfort Ocran, they tackled practical questions about fitness, nutrition, and how simple lifestyle changes can improve long-term health outcomes. The discussion formed part of the Her Health Her Power series, designed to help young women make better choices for their minds and bodies. Nutritionist and dietician, Madam Bansah, encouraged young people to start by eating balanced meals rather than starving themselves in the name of weight loss. “For the average healthy person, eating just once or twice a day is not ideal,” she said. “Three main meals a day with healthy snacks in between is fine. Starving slows your metabolism and throws your body off.” She also cautioned against replacing food with supplements. “Supplements are fine, but they’re meant to support, not replace, good nutrition. Your meals should look like a rainbow: different colors, fruits, vegetables, proteins. That’s the foundation.” Madam Bansah, who was drawn to nutrition after a childhood encounter with a woman suffering from goiter, added that people should avoid self-medicating with supplements unless they’ve been properly diagnosed. “Don’t just pop iron or calcium pills because you feel dizzy. Know your history. If you’re pregnant, a sickle cell patient, or have a condition, talk to a doctor first.” Mr. Siakpornu also touched on the importance of warming up before workouts. “Your muscles are like you; they sleep at night. Warming up wakes them and prepares them for what’s coming. You can’t just jump into lifting or jogging without alerting your body.” He also explained why water is essential during exercise. “You need to stay hydrated to keep your circulation going. When your throat gets dry, it’s your body asking for help. Take small sips to stay balanced.” About Springboard HangoutSpringboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centered show hosted by Lady Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences to educate, entertain, and equip the next generation. By Faustina Yeboah

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“When You Know Who You Are, You Can’t Be Broken” – Gloria Sianorkie Odue

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Clinical Psychologist Gloria Sianorkie Odue says having a clear sense of personal identity is one of the strongest anchors for mental health, especially for women dealing with societal pressure and unresolved trauma. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with Lady Comfort Ocran, she explained that many people struggle with anxiety, confusion, and low self-worth because they haven’t taken time to define who they are and what they stand for. The conversation was part of the ongoing Her Mind Matters series, which explores the real-life issues that affect women emotionally, mentally, and socially. “There’s who you are and there’s what society expects you to be,” she said. “When the two don’t align, the pressure can break you, unless you are grounded in your identity and confident in your personal journey.” She explained that identity includes a person’s values, beliefs, and personal story. And without that clarity, people are easily swayed by timelines and expectations set by others. “Somebody may ask, ‘Why are you not married yet?’ and it can break you, unless you know yourself, where you’re going, and what season you’re in.” She noted that many women lose their confidence through repeated negative self-talk. “Statements like ‘I’m not good enough’ or ‘I don’t deserve to be loved’ often come from past trauma. But if you feed those thoughts, they grow. You have to learn to reject them with affirmations, speak truth back to yourself.” The clinical psychologist encouraged listeners to take time for deep personal reflection, especially when dealing with people-pleasing habits, emotional triggers, or lack of confidence. “Ask yourself: Why am I like this? Where did it begin? What can I start changing? That level of honesty is a strength, not weakness.” To support mental wellbeing, she recommended practical interventions such as writing down positive moments, filtering what you read and watch, and taking breaks for quiet reflection. “Whatever you feed yourself with, mentally and emotionally, is what comes out.” About Springboard HangoutSpringboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centered show hosted by Lady Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences to educate, entertain, and equip the next generation.

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Springboard Hangout Holds Second Edition of Fireside Reflections in Tamale

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The second edition of Fireside Reflections, a special broadcast under the Springboard Hangout series, was held in Tamale with Comfort Ocran as host. Set in an open-air community setting, the episode brought together a group of energetic young men and women to reflect on their journeys in agriculture, agribusiness, ATVET, and life-changing impact stories through the Ghana Grows program. This edition, which formed part of the ongoing Tamale Series, was built around storytelling, drumming, dancing, and open conversation, all by the fireside. It brought together Ghana Grows Youth Ambassadors, Girls Club members, and other young beneficiaries of the Ghana Grows initiative to share how the program is helping shift their mindset about agriculture and unlocking real opportunities in agribusiness. Ghana Grows is a youth empowerment program by the Mastercard Foundation in partnership with the Springboard Road Show Foundation. It focuses on preparing young Ghanaians for success in agriculture, agribusiness, and Agricultural Technical and Vocational Education and Training (ATVET). Through community engagement and hands-on learning, the program is equipping a new generation to see farming as a business and a viable career path. Participants shared how Ghana Grows has helped them better understand the agricultural value chain and take bold steps, including joining Ghana Grows Empower360, an initiative that focuses on training young women and persons with disabilities in skills like shoemaking, soap production, resin art, and more, with participants receiving starter packs to begin their businesses. Abdul Fatou, who serves as a Ghana Grows Ambassador and works in social media communication, reflected on how the program reshaped his thinking: “After I studied more about the Ghana Grows program, I realized that it’s not just agriculture. Agric is a business. Being a farmer isn’t just about going to the farm. There’s so much you can do. What motivated me most was realizing how many rich and powerful people are actually farmers, even though most youth think farming is only for the poor. As a media person, I decided we need to let the world know the truth about farming and agribusiness. That’s what I’ve been doing through Ghana Grows. I’ve actually started farming myself. The program connected me with others I could share ideas with.” The night ended with cultural performances from the local community, a celebration of identity, purpose, and the bold dreams of Northern Ghana’s rising youth. About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centered show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences to educate, entertain, and equip the next generation.