Poor Service Is Rebranding Businesses for the Worse, Experts Warn

Faustina Yeboah / April 27, 2026

Customer experience failures are undoing the very brands businesses work hard to build, according to insights shared by branding strategist Dennis Gawuga and customer experience expert James Mills on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran. The two industry professionals cautioned that many businesses, especially emerging ones, focus heavily on appearance and promotion while neglecting the actual experience customers receive, a gap they say is costing them growth, trust, and long-term relevance. “Branding is a very intentional process where a product or service is marketed consistently over time with discipline to build a perception and maintain it,” Mr. Gawuga explained, stressing that what people see on the surface is only the starting point of a much deeper responsibility. Mr. Mills reinforced the concern from a customer experience perspective, stating that “customer experience is the new marketing,” and warning that businesses that fail at this stage risk losing customers even after attracting them successfully. Mr. Gawuga further noted that many businesses create a strong first impression but fail at the point of delivery, which ultimately defines how customers judge them. He explained that when what a business claims does not match what it delivers, it creates doubt and weakens trust in the brand. Mr. Mills, drawing from over two decades in the industry, pointed out that many businesses still misunderstand customer service, reducing it to simple transactions rather than a full experience. According to him, how customers are received, spoken to, and supported determines whether they stay or leave. Both speakers highlighted a critical issue affecting many small businesses: the failure to deliver on promises. They cited cases where customers pay for products or services that are delayed for months without proper communication. According to Mr. Gawuga, such failures do more than disappoint customers; they actively reshape how the brand is perceived. “When you do not deliver on what you said you would do, you are recreating a different brand for yourself,” he indicated, emphasizing that every action or inaction sends a message to the customer. Mr. Mills added that many of these breakdowns happen because there are no systems in place to track customer interactions or complaints. He stressed that businesses must actively monitor their communication channels, noting that “people do what is inspected, not what is expected.” He advised that even small businesses without sophisticated systems can maintain strong customer relationships by responding promptly, setting clear timelines, and managing expectations properly. Where mistakes occur, he recommended immediate engagement, sincere apologies, and practical compensation such as discounts or partial refunds to restore trust. Beyond systems and processes, both experts returned to a central theme: discipline. Mr. Gawuga stressed that lasting brands are not built on trends or short bursts of attention, but on consistent delivery over time. He warned that while social media can quickly attract attention, it cannot sustain a business without reliability and truth. Mr. Mills reinforced this by urging business owners to be intentional about the experience they create. He explained that when businesses deliberately design positive interactions, they benefit from stronger customer loyalty, lower marketing costs, and increased revenue. 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

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Andrew Ackah Calls on Entrepreneurs to Focus on Purpose, Problem-Solving, and Long-Term Impact

Faustina Yeboah / April 20, 2026

CEO of Dentsu & President of Advertising Association of Ghana, Andrew Ackah, has called on entrepreneurs to shift their focus from quick financial gains to building meaningful solutions, stressing that true fulfillment in business comes from impact. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, with host Pastor Albert Ocran, as part of the ongoing April series on The Entrepreneurial Mindset, Mr. Ackah explained that entrepreneurship begins with an inner drive to solve problems, not just the desire to make money. According to him, individuals who succeed in business are often those who feel a deep restlessness until they bring their ideas to life. “There are people who cannot continue living their lives without solving a problem,” he said. “If you identify that you can do something to help or improve lives, that desire stays in you until you bring that solution out. That is where entrepreneurship starts.” Drawing from over two decades of experience, he noted that his own journey into advertising was not planned but discovered through curiosity and persistence. He explained that after entering the field with no formal background, he deliberately invested time in learning the principles of marketing and consumer behaviour, which later shaped his career. “I did not study marketing, so I went to buy books and learned it myself. I wanted to understand why people make the choices they make, because that is the foundation of business. Once I understood that, I knew this was what I wanted to do,” he said. The CEO emphasised that building a successful business goes beyond technical skill and requires a strong sense of responsibility, especially in leadership. He explained that moving from a functional role into leadership revealed gaps in his own preparedness and forced him to grow. “The game changes completely when you become a leader. You are no longer just responsible for your work, but for people, clients, and the future of the business. You must learn continuously, listen to others, and accept that you will make mistakes along the way,” he stated. He further highlighted that failure is an inevitable part of the entrepreneurial journey and should not discourage business owners. Instead, he advised entrepreneurs to learn from setbacks and remain committed to their purpose. “You will fail, but you must learn from your mistakes and not repeat them. Sometimes things will not go your way, but you must remember why you started and keep working at it,” he said. Addressing the common perception that financial success is the ultimate goal of entrepreneurship, Mr. Ackah challenged that view, explaining that money is only a by-product of creating value. “It is about creating something and seeing that idea come to life in others. Money is only for economic reasons, but the real fulfillment comes from knowing you have solved a problem and made an impact. That is what keeps you going,” he explained. He added that as entrepreneurs grow, their priorities often shift from profit to purpose, with many eventually focusing on legacy and contribution. “The more you grow, the more you realize that what you are doing is affecting people. That is when the money becomes secondary, and the impact becomes the real reward,” he said. Mr. Ackah also encouraged business owners facing difficult periods not to give up, noting that challenges are part of a natural cycle in life and business. “You cannot win all the time. There will be difficult seasons, but you must stay grounded and find solutions. If you believe in what you started, you can recover and move forward,” he said. He urged aspiring entrepreneurs to identify what drives them deeply and pursue it with commitment, while also recognising that success is ultimately about serving others. “Find what keeps you awake at night and pursue it. When you get there, understand that it is not about you. It is about the many people who need what you are building,” he 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 & Albert Ocran (Facebook & YouTube) and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. The discussion formed part of the new April series dubbed “The Entrepreneurial Mindset.” Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

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“Stop Chasing Investors, Build Value First” — Caveman Watches CEO Anthony Dzamefe To Young Entrepreneurs

Faustina Yeboah / April 13, 2026

Founder and CEO of Caveman Watches, Anthony Dzamefe, has urged young entrepreneurs to shift their focus from seeking funding to building real value, stating that a strong product will naturally attract the right opportunities. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, with host Pastor Albert Ocran as part of the ongoing April series on The Entrepreneurial Mindset, Mr. Dzamefe stated that many aspiring business owners spend critical time pursuing investors instead of developing their craft. Reflecting on his early journey, he revealed that he once spent entire days moving from one meeting to another in search of financial backing, only to realize that he was neglecting the very work that would make his business worth investing in. “I realised that in a whole day of chasing investors, I had barely spent any time actually making watches. So, I flipped my thinking. I decided to focus on building the product and the brand. If help comes, it will speed things up, but even if it does not, I am still going where I am going. When you build something valuable, it markets itself halfway, and the right people will come,” he said. Mr. Dzamefe added that his journey into watchmaking did not begin with a passion for the craft, but with curiosity and survival. After leaving his job and searching for opportunities, he bought a watch for resale and unexpectedly discovered a business opportunity. What started as a simple trade soon grew into a deeper pursuit of mastery, leading him to learn watch repairs from roadside artisans and later leatherwork from shoemakers. He explained that this willingness to learn from unconventional sources shaped his foundation and reinforced the importance of craftsmanship and attention to detail, which he describes as non-negotiable in the watch industry. “The industry worships detail. There is no room for error. Sometimes you spend extra days working on something the customer may never even notice, but you do it because you are committed to the standard. That is what defines the product and ultimately affects the price,” he noted. Beyond technical skill, Mr. Dzamefe stressed that one of the biggest threats to entrepreneurs is not lack of capital but poor emotional control. He described entrepreneurship as mentally demanding, with constant pressure and unpredictable challenges that can easily derail those who are not prepared. “It is very torturous at times. A single phone call can change your mood. If you do not learn how to manage your emotions and stress, you will struggle, regardless of how much money you have. That is what causes many people to give up,” he said, adding that emotional discipline has been a key factor in his ability to stay the course. He also highlighted people management as a critical but often overlooked aspect of business growth, arguing that companies can only grow as much as their teams do. Drawing from his own experience as a former employee, he emphasised the need for business leaders to invest in their workers and create room for them to think and contribute. “Your business will not go anywhere without people. When your workers stop growing, your business also stops growing. You have to give them a voice, trust their intelligence, and make sure they are growing alongside the company,” he said. He further challenged young people to rethink how they approach opportunities, cautioning against the tendency to crowd already saturated industries while ignoring unique talents that can be developed into viable ventures. “Sometimes you need to look where nobody else is looking. You may have a unique ability that you think cannot become a business, but with the right guidance, it can. If you are the best at what you do, no matter what it is, you will be fine,” he advised. 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 formed part of the new April series dubbed “The Entrepreneurial Mindset.” Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

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“Passion Alone Does Not Build a Business, Think Beyond the Excitement,” Says Tonyi Senayah to Entrepreneurs

Faustina Yeboah / April 6, 2026

Founder and CEO of Horseman Shoes, Tonyi Senayah, has urged aspiring entrepreneurs to move beyond the excitement of starting a business and focus on the discipline, structure, and long-term thinking required to build something sustainable. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, with host Pastor Albert Ocran, as part of the new April series on The Entrepreneurial Mindset, he made it clear that while passion may spark the journey, it is not what sustains it. “Passion is a good starting point, but as you grow, you must shift from just mastering the craft to learning the numbers as well. If it is only about money, the first four or five years, you will not survive. You must have a greater reason for doing what you do, and when you do it right, the money will start looking for you,” he said, stressing that many young people misunderstand what it truly takes to build a business. Drawing from his early experience, Mr. Senayah recounted how excitement without proper planning nearly derailed his journey when he began taking large orders without understanding cash flow realities. He explained that delayed payments, coupled with financial commitments to suppliers and workers, created intense pressure that forced him to confront the gap between perceived profit and actual business sustainability. “I was excited about the orders and calculated my profits upfront, but I did not consider that clients would delay payment. I had taken money from people, made commitments, and when the money did not come, it became a very difficult period. That experience taught me the importance of understanding the numbers and being truthful even in hard times,” he said, adding that integrity and honest communication became his lifeline during that season. He emphasised that entrepreneurship is not built on hype but on solving real problems, noting that not every passion translates into a viable business. According to him, the ability to identify gaps and provide value is what separates lasting businesses from short-lived ventures. “Business is about solving problems for people. Identify the pain points and the value you can offer. Not every passion is viable, but when you solve a real problem, people will pay for it,” he noted, urging young entrepreneurs to pay close attention to the needs of their immediate environment as a starting point for building solutions. Mr. Senayah also challenged the rush for quick success, advocating for a deliberate approach that allows room for learning and growth. He maintained that starting small is not a weakness but an advantage, as it gives entrepreneurs the space to make mistakes early and build resilience before scaling. “When you start small, you have the room to make mistakes and learn. If you make those mistakes early, your chances of survival are higher. There is no shame in failing. You just have to learn from it and move forward,” he said. He dismissed the notion of waiting for the perfect moment, describing it as one of the biggest traps for potential entrepreneurs. He encouraged decisive action backed by conviction, rather than prolonged hesitation. “There is no right time. If you keep waiting for the perfect moment, it may never come. Once you have the conviction, just start. You will face challenges, but you must always find a way to keep going,” he said. He cautioned against the growing culture of appearances and shortcuts. According to him, sustainable success is built on truth, humility, and a willingness to learn continuously. “Be true to yourself. When you are struggling, let people know. Do not pretend. Learn, stay humble, and keep improving. Always start small, be consistent, be patient, and never give up,” he advised. 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 formed part of the new April series dubbed “The Entrepreneurial Mindset.” Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

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“You Can Only Soar as High as Your Mind Will Take You” — Essie Anno Sackey Urges Young Women to Think Bigger

Faustina Yeboah / March 30, 2026

Co-founder of Legacy Girls’ College, Essie Anno Sackey, has called on young people, especially women, to rise above limitations and pursue their full potential with confidence, purpose, and a strong sense of responsibility. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, with host Pastor Albert Ocran on the final episode of the March series on women in leadership, she stressed that the future belongs to those who are prepared to think beyond boundaries and act boldly on their aspirations. According to her, the foundation of leadership begins with the mind, and how far a person is willing to stretch their thinking determines how far they will go in life. She encouraged young people not to allow fear, background, or past experiences to hold them back, but rather to draw strength from them. “The world is at your feet. Take hold of every experience, learn, and grow. Have the confidence to step out to do what is in your heart. Know what is in your heart and reach for it. You can only soar as high as your mind will take you. So let your mind soar,” she said. She explained that leadership today requires more than academic achievement, noting that education must go beyond the classroom to include character, confidence, and the ability to solve problems. In her view, true education equips individuals to interact effectively with others, resolve conflicts, and take initiative in uncertain situations. “Education helps you to explore beyond your own horizon. It is not just academics. It is how to live with people, how to interact, how to bond, how to settle disputes, and how to lead among your peers. That confidence to know you can find solutions, even when you do not have all the answers, is what makes the difference,” she noted. Drawing from her leadership journey in both aviation and education, she highlighted the importance of courage and continuous learning. She admitted that leadership often comes with uncertainty, but insisted that growth comes from being willing to step forward and seek guidance when needed. “You do not have to know everything. What matters is knowing where to go for the right information and being willing to learn. Each experience should teach you something. Once you learn, you move forward stronger,” she said. On the broader issue of national development, she described what she considers a “good society” as one where every individual has access to basic needs such as education, sanitation, and opportunities to improve their lives. She pointed out that even small, intentional efforts can transform lives and create lasting impact. “The good society is one where we all do our part to ensure others can live with dignity. Sometimes it takes very little to change someone’s life. A small investment, the right support, and guidance can create a ripple effect that transforms families and communities,” she explained. Reflecting on the progress of women in leadership, she acknowledged that while significant strides have been made, challenges such as workplace inequality and social barriers still exist. However, she expressed confidence in the next generation of women, describing them as bold, capable, and full of potential. “The young people today are fearless. They have a can-do spirit, and when you engage them, you see that they are just as capable as anyone anywhere in the world. We must keep telling them that they are good enough and capable of doing great things,” she added. 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 Exploring Women in Leadership. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

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“Nobody Owes You Anything, Build Your Own Path” — Constance Swaniker Charges Young People

Faustina Yeboah / March 23, 2026

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. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

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‘Competence Has No Gender’ — Janet Sunkwa-Mills and Justine Aniaku Call for Purpose-Driven Leadership on International Women’s Day

Faustina Yeboah / March 19, 2026

President of the Executive Women’s Network, Janet Sunkwa – Mills, and educator and social entrepreneur Justine Mauda Afia Aniaku, have called on women to pursue leadership grounded in competence, service, and intentional impact, stressing that true leadership is built on value and not gender. They made the call on Springboard, Your Virtual University, during the International Women’s Day 2026 celebration, a special edition of the ongoing Exploring Women in Leadership series, with host, Ps. Albert Ocran. Mrs. Sunkwa-Mills emphasised that competence remains the strongest response to barriers women sometimes encounter in professional environments. According to her, organisations ultimately seek people who can deliver value and contribute meaningfully to their goals. “I always say and believe strongly that competence has no gender. If you are good and you can add value in a way that responds to the needs and the vision of the organisation, then you deserve a seat at the table,” she said. Reflecting on her leadership journey, she explained that the Executive Women’s Network, which will mark its 10th anniversary this year, has grown from a small group of women focused on career development into a broader platform committed to mentoring and leadership development for younger women. She noted that over time, the network realised that celebrating the achievements of successful women alone was not enough, and that deliberate investment in emerging leaders had become necessary. “We realised that operating only from a place of personal development had limited impact. So, we expanded our focus to mentoring younger women and building the next generation of leaders,” she said. Through initiatives such as the EWN Elevate mentorship programme and partnerships with educational institutions, the network has supported hundreds of young women and girls across the country. According to Madam Justine Aniaku, leadership has been expressed through service and the empowerment of vulnerable women through practical skills training. The educator explained that her initiative focuses on equipping women with handicraft skills that allow them to generate income and support their families, particularly women who often have limited access to economic opportunities. “For me, it has never been about the money but the impact. The joy of knowing that because of something I did, there is food on someone’s table is deeply fulfilling,” she said. She recalled receiving a message from one of the women she had trained, which affirmed the significance of her work. “One woman sent me an audio message saying, ‘Madam, because of you, I now have food for my children.’ That alone is enough motivation for me to continue,” she said. Madam. Justine also shared her personal journey, explaining that she became physically challenged at the age of two and a half but refused to allow the circumstance to limit her ambitions. With strong encouragement from her mother and a commitment to education, she continued to develop her skills and later began teaching them to others through both physical training sessions and online learning platforms. “I discovered my skills early and decided to use them. When distance prevented people from attending training physically, I began creating videos so they could still learn wherever they were,” she explained. Both women also reflected on how their leadership journeys have shaped their character and outlook. 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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Komenda College of Education Funds Staff Housing and 2,500 Seat Auditorium Through Agriculture

Faustina Yeboah / March 2, 2026

The Principal of Komenda College of Education in the Central Region of Ghana, Very Rev. Prof. Kwesi Nkum Wilson, has disclosed that the College is funding significant infrastructure projects through proceeds from its agricultural ventures, positioning agriculture as both an educational tool and a sustainable funding strategy. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, Prof. Wilson explained that the institution has deliberately turned its 338 acres of land into productive farmland, generating internally raised funds to support development across the campus. He noted that as a public institution, salary support is provided, but development requires prudent management and innovation. “As a Government Institution, subventions will not be coming. They pay salaries, and that is all. You need to manage the College,” he said. According to him, proceeds from the College farms are currently being used to construct a 12-unit staff apartment facility and a 2,500-capacity auditorium. “We would meet a 12-unit staff apartment coming up there. They are on site, and we are settling with our monies we raise from the farm and other places. We will go down there, with the aid of the Chaplain and others, and we are putting up a 2,500-capacity auditorium with IGF. I am emphasizing on that, not with government subvention,”he stated. The agricultural projects include a 50-acre coconut plantation, maize cultivation, piggery, fish farming, and plans for cattle rearing. According to him, the College harvested over 60 acres of maize with active student participation last year. Beyond revenue generation, Prof. Wilson underscored the moral and national importance of agriculture, arguing that the ability to produce food is foundational. “If you cannot feed yourself, then you have failed God. A nation that imports huge volumes of rice when we have rivers across, there is something wrong. That is why, in spite of what people say, in my College, you would weed. I introduce you to the land,” he said. He maintained that exposure to farming should begin early in life rather than being presented later as an alternative for unemployed youth. As part of a long-term sustainability strategy, the College has invested heavily in coconut cultivation, a crop with an estimated lifespan of about 70 years. Prof. Wilson indicated that the goal is to protect and develop the land for future leadership. “I will be ending my duty next year, December. But whoever will take over and those I am leaving behind have enough resources to develop the College,” he said. 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

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‘Entrepreneurship Is an Illusion If You Want Free Time’ – Sally Mercer Quagraine

Faustina Yeboah / March 2, 2026

Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Dream Desserts, Madam Sally Mercer Quagraine, has cautioned women against entering entrepreneurship under the assumption that it offers flexibility and personal freedom, insisting that business ownership can be more demanding than formal employment. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, with host Ps. Albert Ocran, as part of the March HERizon series ahead of International Women’s Day, exploring women in leadership, she described the popular belief that running a business guarantees more time for oneself as misleading, stressing that entrepreneurship often demands greater structure, accountability, and personal sacrifice than many anticipate. “Entrepreneurship is an illusion if you think you will have more time for yourself. If what you are doing is in demand, it will demand you. You must plan, discipline yourself, and accept that it comes with responsibility,” she stated. According to her, the reality of business ownership involves overhead costs, staff management, quality control, and continuous improvement, not just independence. Madam Quagraine stressed that once a business moves from a home setup to a commercial space, the stakes become higher and the margin for error reduces. “You are no longer playing at it. You have rent, overheads, and people to pay. That demands planning and discipline,” she noted. She also addressed the lingering stigma around technical and hands-on work, arguing that society must rethink the notion that working with one’s hands reflects academic weakness. On leadership and growth, she underscored the importance of humility and openness to feedback, especially in service-driven industries. “If a client is not happy, there is something there for you to learn. You may not like how it sounds, but feedback helps you improve. Rejecting it can cost you your standards and your clients,” she said. She urged young women to resist the pressure for quick financial gains and instead focus on building enduring enterprises. “The culture now is about quick money. But building something meaningful takes patience. It is not easy, but if it is your passion, stay with it and trust God with the gift He has given you,” 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. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

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Conflict Is Necessary to Build Love, Says Dr. Asuquo Udofia

Faustina Yeboah / February 23, 2026

Counselling psychologist Dr. Asuquo Udofia has stated that conflict is not the enemy of relationships but rather a necessary ingredient for building stronger and more mature unions. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, with host Pastor. Albert Ocran, on conflict management in relationships, Dr. Udofia explained that disagreement is inevitable wherever two individuals with different backgrounds, values, and expectations come together. “As wide as human existence on earth,” he said when asked how widespread conflict is, noting that every human being will experience disagreement at some point. He stressed that conflict in itself is not destructive. Rather, it is the inability to manage it that damages relationships. “Conflict is necessary to build a relationship. The maturity that will be found in that conflict is what determines the love and not the absence of conflict,” he stated. According to him, most relationship conflicts stem from unmet needs, unmet values, unmet expectations, and unexpressed emotions. He explained that individuals enter relationships with spoken and unspoken expectations, as well as unconscious triggers shaped by childhood experiences and past trauma. “The root cause could be far away from the symptoms,” he said, adding that some recurring issues may be linked to patterns that have run through generations Dr. Udofia identified poor communication as a major contributor to relationship breakdowns. Instead of blaming a partner during disagreements, he advised couples to take personal responsibility for expressing how they feel. Drawing from his professional experience, Dr. Udofia noted that many couples seek counselling only as a last resort after conflicts have deepened. He recommended regular relationship evaluations, open communication, and shared vision building as preventive measures. “Believe that it is doable, that you can walk through this challenging moment,” he urged couples, adding that pride, name-calling, and shame often cause more damage than the conflict itself. 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.