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Virtual University

“Every Cancer Patient Deserves a Special Nurse” – Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti

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2025 Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award winner, Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti, is calling for greater recognition of cancer nursing as a dedicated specialty within healthcare, saying patients battling such conditions deserve focused, expert care. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University with Rev. Albert Ocran, the Oncology Nurse Specialist stressed, “Every patient, and by extension every cancer patient, deserves to be taken care of by a special nurse. There is a need for us to realize cancer nursing as a specialty.” The conversation formed part of the broadcast’s ongoing Changing Narratives series, which highlights Ghanaians who are reshaping the national story through bold and impactful work. The award-winning specialist used the platform to highlight the emotional weight many nurses carry in silence. “Sometimes you see yourself in your patient,” she said. “Depending on the state they come in, it can be emotionally draining. You go home carrying what they are going through.” As an Oncology Nurse Specialist, she stated that her Christian faith is key to how she copes and provides comfort. “Sometimes a patient will ask, ‘Will I survive?’ and because both of us are Christians, I’ll tell them, ‘God will do it.’ I’ve found myself praying for patients. Faith is what keeps me going.” She also shared the core qualities that drive her work and what she believes every great nurse must have: compassion, skill, and faith. “Compassion gives you the drive. Skills give you the ability to deliver. But faith keeps you grounded and strong,” she explained. Reflecting on her journey, the award-winning nurse said her passion for nursing was shaped early by her environment and upbringing. “Growing up, I’d follow family members to the hospital. I watched nurses speak with authority, care, and calm, and people listened. I admired that. I wanted to be that.” Raised by parents of modest means, Mrs. Oyoe Ohene Oti credits her father’s belief in education for helping her pursue her calling. “My dad was a security officer and my mum a trader. He used to say the best thing you can give your children, apart from God, is education. He didn’t get to attend university even after gaining admission, but he made sure all his children did.” She described the award experience as a journey of visibility and purpose. “It’s opened up opportunities to meet amazing people and tell our story. This is what nurses are doing to impact the world.” About Springboard, Your Virtual UniversitySpringboard, Your Virtual University is a weekly motivational and personal development broadcast hosted by Rev. Albert Ocran. It airs every Sunday at 7 PM on Joy FM and 9 PM on Joy News TV. The show provides thought leadership, practical life lessons, and transformational conversations with trailblazers across sectors. The current Changing Narratives series spotlights Ghanaians making bold moves to rewrite the national story through innovation and impact.

Hangout

“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.

Virtual University

“Illegal Mining Is Draining the Life Out of Us” – Erastus Asare-Donkor

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Investigative journalist Erastus Asare-Donkor has described Ghana’s illegal mining problem as a slow but deadly force that is quietly destroying the country’s future. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, with Rev. Albert Ocran, Mr. Asare-Donkor said the damage caused by illegal mining is often underestimated because many people feel distant from its direct effects. “Illegal mining is draining the life out of us gradually. We are distorting the balance nature gave us, and that balance means death if we ignore it,” he stated. The interview formed part of the show’s ongoing Changing Narratives series, which highlights individuals who are reshaping Ghana’s story through bold and impactful work. The Multimedia Group journalist is widely known for his environmental reporting and was recently honored with the Millennium Excellence Award. He revealed that his work has not been without emotional and physical tolls. “Sometimes I feel like stopping, but then I look at my children and ask myself what kind of future we are creating for them. That thought alone keeps me going,” he said. Detailing the risks, he explained that his team often films in remote locations without phone network coverage, where safety cannot be guaranteed. “It’s only by the grace of God. We sometimes have to rely on drones to capture footage safely,” he added. Mr. Asare-Donkor called on Ghanaians to support the work through funding, as production costs are high and his organization can no longer carry the full financial burden. “We keep writing proposals to NGOs to help us continue,” he noted. “What will make me happy is to see our rivers restored and used again to grow food. That will mean we are mining responsibly,” he said. About Springboard Virtual University Springboard, Your Virtual University is a weekly motivational and personal development programme hosted by Rev. Albert Ocran. It airs every Sunday at 7 PM on Joy FM, 9 pm on Joy News TV, and provides thought leadership, practical life lessons, and transformational conversations with trailblazers across sectors. The current Changing Narratives series spotlights Ghanaians making bold moves to rewrite the national story through innovation and impact

Edwuma

“Farming Is Not a Risk,” says Rodge Gyabaah Yeboah, Founder of Akro Farms

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Young farmer and founder of Akro Farms, Rodge Gyabaah Yeboah, has called on financial institutions and national stakeholders to rethink their perception of agriculture, describing the sector as one of the most secure and scalable investments in Ghana today. “Farming is not a risk. I can go into a contract with anyone and guarantee delivery,” he stated during an episode on Ghana Grows Edwuma with host Araba Koomson. Mr. Gyabaah Yeboah, who runs his irrigation-powered farm near the Bui Dam in the Bono Region, says the issue is not a lack of interest in farming, but rather a lack of structured support. “Imagine feeding 500 people from one farm. If we had just ten more like Akro Farms, that’s 5,000 people sorted. Food should not be a national crisis,” he said. The trained electrical engineer transitioned to full-time farming, utilizing drip and overhead irrigation systems that he funded 90 percent from his savings. He currently grows okra and pepper, and plans to add onions in the coming season. “Drip irrigation saves water and avoids fungi growth, but it’s expensive. Most young people can’t afford it without help,” he explained. He also raised alarm over the impact of illegal mining on agriculture, especially its effect on human resources. “You need people to work on a farm, but many young men are abandoning agriculture to chase quick money from galamsey,” he said. “They don’t realize it’s destroying the land we all depend on.” Mr. Gyabaah Yeboah encouraged the youth to consider agriculture not just as a fallback, but as a legitimate path to financial freedom. “If you want to be stable and build something lasting, start small, get the right knowledge, and farm. It’s better than fraud or illegal mining.” About Ghana Grows Edwuma Ghana Grows Edwuma is a nationwide broadcast aired on TV and radio, aimed at encouraging young people to take up career opportunities in the agribusiness, agriculture, and ATVET sectors.

Hangout

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.

News, Virtual University

Dr. Angela Dwamena – Aboagye Calls for Unwavering Commitment to Purpose

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Dr. Angela Dwamena-Aboagye, Executive Director of The Ark Foundation and 2025 MTN Heroes of Change winner, has urged Ghanaians not to give up on their dreams despite the delays, challenges, or discouragements they may encounter. “Never give up, never give in, no matter the strength of the enemy,” she emphasized, stressing that seasons in life are real and that staying faithful to one’s calling is key to lasting impact. Dr. Dwamena-Aboagye was speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, hosted by Rev. Albert Ocran as part of the ongoing series titled Changing Narratives. The conversation drew insights from her nearly three-decade journey in advocacy, counselling, and legal support for women and children in Ghana. Dr. Angela, who was recently named Overall Winner of the MTN Heroes of Change 2025, described the award as an unexpected and humbling moment. She noted that although all the finalists were deserving, her consistent work across various vulnerable groups over the years may have set her apart. She spoke passionately about the principle of seedtime and harvest, describing it as a spiritual truth that always proves itself. “Instinctively, I knew harvest time would come… and because I’m a person of faith, I’ve held that in my heart. So when things started happening, I said, ‘That’s you, Lord. You said it and you’re doing it.” According to her, years of advocacy work without much recognition taught her that waiting is not a passive act, but an intentional commitment to the work one has been called to do. She encouraged people to see waiting as an active posture of trust, courage, and consistency. Dr. Angela, who is also a theologian, pointed out that many of the challenges in gender justice stem from long-held mindsets that require a complete renewal of thought. She said that while Ghana has made progress in areas such as access to education and legal reforms, many institutions still struggle with coordination and sensitivity when responding to victims. She described The Ark Foundation as a Christian mission organization that works through legal rights and human rights frameworks to train, advocate, and support victims of gender-based violence. Their work includes training churches, police officers, and other institutions on the dynamics of sexual and domestic abuse and how to respond effectively. Reflecting on her journey, Dr. Angela concluded that her sustained commitment, even when others abandoned the work, is proof that her path is a divine assignment. “There is never one day when I’ve thought of stopping,” she said. “I know I can do other things, but none of them capture my heart like working with women and children who are hurting.” About Springboard, Your Virtual University Springboard, Your Virtual University, is Ghana’s leading motivational and personal development broadcast hosted by Rev. Albert Ocran. It provides thought leadership, practical life lessons, and transformational conversations with trailblazers across sectors.

News

Ghana Grows High School Next Level Tour Transforms Lives at Cape Coast School for the Deaf and Blind

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The Ghana Grows High School Next Level Tour continues to make a profound impact on young lives, with its recent stop at the Cape Coast School for the Deaf and Blind delivering not just knowledge and inspiration but also a life-changing financial breakthrough for one student. This year’s edition of the tour is dedicated to special schools and institutions for persons with disabilities, creating opportunities in agriculture and agribusiness while transforming lives in powerful and unexpected ways. A standout moment from the event was the Wow Moment segment, where students are recognized for their engagement, enthusiasm, and outstanding participation. In a particularly moving instance, a student named Callistus was awarded a cash prize, just when he was struggling to pay his school fees. “I didn’t know how I was going to pay my fees, and today, this happened. I am so grateful to the organizers for coming here, not just to teach us but to change lives. This means everything to me,” Callistus expressed emotionally. His story exemplifies the transformative power of the High School Next Level Disability Inclusion program, which not only broadens young minds to opportunities in agriculture but also meets critical needs in impactful ways. Comfort Ocran, Executive Director of the Springboard Road Show Foundation, highlighted the deeper impact of the initiative “Every time we visit a school, we see young people whose dreams are just waiting to be ignited. Today, beyond educating and inspiring, we were able to make a direct impact on a student’s life.” With each stop, the Ghana Grows High School Next Level Tour is changing perceptions, opening doors, and making a tangible difference. So far, the team has visited Koforidua School for the Deaf, Kibi School for the Deaf, Bechem School for the Deaf, Takoradi Special Vocational School, and Twin City Special School. Additionally, the tour has seen the foundation visit Cape Coast School for the Deaf and Blind, Volta School for the Deaf and Blind and Gbi Special School. About Ghana Grows The Ghana Grows programme is an initiative of the Mastercard Foundation, led by the Springboard Road Show Foundation. Lyme Haus serves as a sub-implementing partner, alongside key technical collaborators, including, Axis Human Capital, Meraki Arts Africa, Light for the World, Ghana Psychological Association (GPA), Young & Vibe, Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters (FAGE), Ghana National Tailors and Dressmakers Association (GNTDA), Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Ghana Hairdressers and Beauticians Association (GHABA) Together, these partners are driving meaningful change and creating new opportunities for young people across Ghana.

News

Develop Other Talents Beyond Your Primary Skills —Rev. Albert Ocran

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Renowned executive coach Rev. Albert Ocran has urged young individuals and professionals to develop complementary skills alongside their primary talents. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University – Special Edition with Jesse Agyepong, he emphasized the importance of mastering additional skills, noting that a single talent alone is not enough to achieve long-term success. “Beyond your primary ability or gift, there are related skills that you need to develop,” he said. He encouraged individuals to assess their strengths using eight key factors: passion, ideas, intuition, execution, rate of return, sacrifice, fulfillment, and appreciation. Rev. Ocran dismissed the notion that multiple talents are necessary for success, explaining that a single well-developed skill can manifest in various ways. Using his own career as an example, he illustrated how his strength as a communicator extends to writing, facilitation, and moderation. He also highlighted the importance of mentorship, crediting figures such as Dr. Mensa Otabil and playwright Uncle Ebo Whyte for shaping his journey. “One lesson from your mentor can save you ten years of struggle,” he noted, urging young professionals to embrace learning opportunities, including volunteering. Integrity, discipline, and credibility, he stressed, are crucial for long-term success. “When you prove yourself in small ways, people notice, and your reputation grows automatically,” he added. Rev. Ocran further emphasized the need for lifelong learning and adaptability in an ever-evolving world. He encouraged young professionals to leverage their talents in multiple ways. “Whatever God gave you, there is one river, but you can break it into several streams,” he explained. He concluded by stressing the power of collaboration and teamwork. “No one is an island. Your greatest opportunity to rise comes from serving somebody, supporting someone, and helping to lift others up,” he said.

News

Ghana Grows High School Next Level Tour Heads to Cape Coast School for the Deaf and Blind!

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The High School Next Level tour is in full swing, and excitement continues to build as the team makes its way to the Cape Coast School for the Deaf and Blind on Friday, March 28. So far, the tour has delivered inspiring and transformational experiences at the Koforidua School for the Deaf and the Bechem School for the Deaf, where students are engaged in interactive learning, hands-on activities, and motivational sessions designed to expose them to endless opportunities in agriculture and agribusiness. This year’s edition of High School Next Level, an initiative of Ghana Grows, led by the Mastercard Foundation in partnership with the Springboard Road Show Foundation is dedicated to special schools and institutions for persons with disabilities. The goal is to ensure that every young person, regardless of ability, has access to the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to thrive in agriculture and ATVET (Agricultural Technical and Vocational Education and Training). As the High School Next Level team heads to the Cape Coast School for the Deaf and Blind, students can expect a life-transforming experience featuring engaging presentations on career opportunities in agriculture, inspirational mentorship sessions with resource persons, and exciting activities designed to challenge perceptions and inspire change. Joining the tour as a resource person, Michael Owusu Asare, Disability Inclusion Specialist and Founder of No Limit Consult, will continue to motivate and empower students, emphasizing that disability is not a limitation to success in agriculture and beyond. Speaking on the impact of the initiative, Comfort Ocran, Executive Director of the Springboard Road Show Foundation, shared: “The response to this year’s road show has been incredible. It is always awe-inspiring to see students actively listening and participating in the program. Their enthusiasm propels us to keep doing what we are doing. This program is all about empowerment, inclusion, and creating opportunities for young people to see the possibilities in agriculture. We look forward to an amazing experience at the Cape Coast School for the Deaf and Blind and beyond!” The countdown to Friday, March 28, has begun, and the Cape Coast School for the Deaf and Blind is ready to experience the excitement, learning, and inspiration that the Ghana Grows High School Next Level tour brings. About Ghana Grows The Ghana Grows program is an initiative of the Mastercard Foundation, led by the Springboard Road Show Foundation. Lyme Haus serves as a sub-implementing partner, alongside key technical collaborators, including Axis Human Capital, Meraki Arts Africa, Light for the World, the Ghana Psychological Association (GPA), Young & Vibe, the Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters (FAGE), the Ghana National Tailors and Dressmakers Association (GNTDA), the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), and the Ghana Hairdressers and Beauticians Association (GHABA).

News

Ghana Grows High School Next Level Kicks Off with an Unforgettable Experience at Koforidua School for the Deaf!

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The Ghana Grows High School Next Level tour has officially begun with an unparalleled experience for students at Koforidua School for the Deaf on Friday, March 14. This year’s edition is particularly special as it is dedicated to special schools and institutions for persons with disabilities, ensuring that every young mind, regardless of ability, is empowered with knowledge and opportunities in agriculture and its extended value chain. This intervention, under the Ghana Grows Program, is an initiative of the Mastercard Foundation in partnership with the Springboard Road Show Foundation. Over the years, the High School Next Level has become one of the most anticipated events for high school students, providing hands-on experiences and inspiring stories to help young people see the vast opportunities in agriculture and ATVET (Agricultural Technical and Vocational Education and Training). Following the remarkable success of previous editions, the 2025 edition is prioritizing inclusivity and ensuring that no one is left behind. The journey began in the Eastern Region, with Koforidua School for the Deaf hosting Kibi School for the Deaf and setting the stage for an insightful and impactful experience. Speaking at the event, Comfort Ocran, Executive Director of the Springboard Road Show Foundation, emphasized the significance of this year’s focus saying, “This year’s edition of High School Next Level is about breaking barriers and creating a future where every young person, regardless of ability, has access to opportunities in agriculture. By reaching out to special schools, we are intentional about inclusivity and ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey of economic empowerment.” Joining the tour as a resource person to motivate students, Michael Owusu Asare, a disability inclusion specialist and founder of No Limit Consult, stressed the importance of inclusive participation in the agricultural sector. He said, “Agriculture is a game-changer in Ghana’s economy, and young people are at the heart of its transformation. Through this initiative, we are not only equipping students with knowledge but also providing them with the tools and confidence to explore agriculture as a viable and fulfilling career path regardless of any physical challenges they may face.” The 2025 Ghana Grows High School Next Level tour will be held in about ten schools with a clear commitment to reaching special schools and institutions for persons with disabilities. The program is designed to challenge perceptions and ignite aspirations to consider agriculture as a career path. From Akropong to Accra, the tour will continue bringing practical training, insightful presentations, and entertainment to students across the country. With more destinations ahead, the excitement is just beginning! About Ghana Grows The Ghana Grows Program is an initiative of the Mastercard Foundation, implemented by a consortium led by the Springboard Road Show Foundation. Lyme Haus serves as a sub-implementing partner, alongside other key technical collaborators, including Axis Human Capital, Meraki Arts Africa, Ghana Federation of the Disabled (GFD), Ghana Psychological Association (GPA), Young & Vibe, the Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters (FAGE), Ghana National Tailors and Dressmakers Association (GNTDA), Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), and GHABA.

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