Hangout

“Having an Idea is not enough; execution is everything, ” says Derrick Annoh

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Derrick Annoh, Chief Executive Officer of Sparkxx Foods and Beverages, has emphasised that the success of any business idea depends on execution, not just creativity or intention. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, he noted that while many people have ideas, only a few commit to the discipline and consistency required to turn those ideas into reality. He explained that his own journey into entrepreneurship began on a small scale, producing snacks from his mother’s kitchen with limited resources and learning through constant experimentation. According to him, the early stages of building Sparkxx Foods and Beverages were marked by setbacks and repeated adjustments. “You try, it doesn’t work, you learn from it, and you try again. That is how the process has been,” he stated. Mr. Annoh indicated that one of the biggest challenges he faced was maintaining consistency in production while dealing with constraints in raw materials. He stressed that such challenges are part of the business journey and must be managed with patience and focus. He further highlighted the importance of quality in building a sustainable brand, stating that customer loyalty is built on trust. “If people trust your product, they will come back. But that trust comes from being consistent with what you offer,” he said. Touching on the growth of the business, he noted that Sparkxx Foods and Beverages has expanded from small beginnings into a brand with products on major retail shelves and presence in international markets. He advised aspiring entrepreneurs to stop waiting for perfect conditions before starting. “You don’t need everything figured out before you begin. Start with what you have and build from there,” he said. Mr. Annoh added that Ghanaian businesses have the potential to compete globally if they remain committed to quality, discipline, and continuous improvement. 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

Virtual University

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

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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

Hangout

Nguvu Global Expands Shea Business Supporting Over 1,000 Women in Northern Ghana

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Freditta Apeagyei, Founder of Nguvu Global Ltd, and Francesca Apeagyei, Co-Founder of the company, say their shea-based skincare business is creating economic opportunities for more than 1,000 women in Northern Ghana while promoting locally produced beauty products. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, the entrepreneurs explained that Nguvu Global works directly with women involved in harvesting and processing shea nuts, building a growing value chain around one of Ghana’s most widely used natural products. According to Freditta Apeagyei, the company was established to build a business around natural shea butter skincare products while recognising the women whose work sustains the industry. “Nguvu means strength. The name was derived from the women who produce the shea butter. They are strong, capable, and productive women who have gone through so much but still continue working,” she said. She noted that the company currently produces a range of about thirteen skincare products made from shea and other natural ingredients, including refined and unrefined shea, black soap, charcoal soap, oils, shampoos, and conditioners. “We have dedicated pickers and producers. Some go to the plantations to pick the nuts, and others process them. The raw materials come from nature and are then sent to our production centre in Accra,” Freditta Apeagyei said. Francesca Apeagyei explained that one of the brand’s best-selling shea products was discovered during a visit to Tamale, where she encountered a locally made formulation that stood out. “I tried it and said no way. I sent it to Freditta in the UK and told her she had to try it. When she tried it she said, what are we waiting for? There was something about the formulation that people needed to know about,” she said. Beyond the commercial side of the business, the sisters added that the company has also undertaken community development initiatives in the areas where its shea raw materials are sourced. According to them, the decision to build a preschool near one of the production sites came after observing that many women had to bring their young children to work because there were no nearby schools. “We decided to build a preschool for the factory workers’ children so that parents can drop them off and go to work safely,” she said. The sisters added that they intend to continue expanding the shea value chain while creating more employment opportunities for women and supporting social initiatives in the communities where the business operates. 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

Uncategorized

‘Business Must Be Built Around People, Not Profit’ Says Gwen Addo

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Founder and CEO of Hair Senta, Gwen Addo, has urged entrepreneurs and aspiring leaders to build businesses that place people at the centre rather than profits, saying long-term success comes from service, trust, and a willingness to keep learning. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, with host, Ps. Albert Ocran, as part of the ongoing Exploring Women in Leadership series marking International Women’s Day, Mrs. Addo reflected on her journey from banking into entrepreneurship and shared lessons on leadership, innovation, and personal growth. According to her, one of the biggest mistakes many entrepreneurs make is starting businesses solely with profit in mind. “You don’t start a business thinking about profits. That is the wrong way to do it. I saw a problem and realised there were people who needed options with their hair and extensions. I tapped into that need and also saw the opportunity to build a brand around trust and consistency,” she said. Mrs. Addo explained that the decision to leave banking and venture into the beauty industry did not happen overnight. Instead, she started the business on a small scale while still working in the corporate sector, testing products among colleagues before eventually committing to it fully. “I didn’t just wake up and quit my job. I started small. I ordered a few pieces of hair and tested them with colleagues to see how it would go. When I saw the potential, I planned and realised this could become something bigger,” she noted. The entrepreneur also highlighted the importance of balancing customer acquisition with retention. “A lot of companies focus only on acquiring new clients, but retention is just as important. When you retain clients while still attracting new ones, your market share grows naturally,” she said. Reflecting on the growth of Hair Senta, Mrs. Addo added that the business evolved significantly once she began focusing on what customers actually wanted rather than what she personally believed the market needed. “In the beginning, I created a brand around what I wanted, not what people wanted. The business really opened up when I began listening to people and understanding their needs,” she said. She added that as the company expanded into partnerships and international distribution, her leadership approach also changed. “As you grow, leadership changes you whether you like it or not. I began to realize that people in different industries were watching what we were doing. That made me more intentional about how I lead because there are people learning from the journey,” she said. The CEO also credited her Christian faith as a major influence on her leadership philosophy, explaining that it shifted her perspective from ownership to stewardship. “Faith has humbled me and made me realize that I am not an owner but a steward. When you see yourself that way, it becomes natural to operate with integrity and to serve people well,” she said. According to her, this mindset has helped her maintain resilience even during difficult periods in business. “As a person of faith, I believe everything works together for good. Even when something looks like failure, it may simply mean that path was not meant for you,” 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 HERizon: Exploring women in leadership. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

Hangout

“The Future of Agro Processing Is Value Addition” – Dr. Rosemond Dadzie Calls for Farmer Collaboration and Zero Waste Production

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Food scientist and lecturer Dr. Rosemond Dadzie, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Fountain Foods, says the future of Ghana’s agro-processing sector depends on adding value to local produce, working closely with farmers, and eliminating waste at every stage of production. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, Dr. Dadzie explained that these principles have shaped the steady growth of her Cape Coast-based agro-processing company over the past few years. According to her, Fountain Foods has expanded significantly since its early days, increasing its product range from 7 to 14 while strengthening its production processes and improving product packaging. “When you first came, we had about 7 products. Now we have doubled the number to about 14 products,” she said, noting that the company has also moved from simple plastic packaging to customized branded packaging as part of efforts to improve quality and presentation. Dr. Dadzie added that the company’s market presence has also grown steadily. What began with a presence mainly in Cape Coast and Tarkwa has now expanded to other major markets, including Accra, Kumasi, and Sunyani, as demand for locally processed food products continues to rise. Beyond market expansion, she stressed that a deliberate zero-waste philosophy is central to how the company operates. According to her, every stage of production is carefully managed to ensure that little or nothing goes to waste. “We do not throw them away. After the sieving stage, we mill the particles again to produce fine gari. What remains at the very end is used for animal feed,” she explained. Dr. Dadzie also highlighted the importance of partnerships with farmers in sustaining the company’s growth. She disclosed that Fountain Foods currently works with about 50 to 60 farmers under a structured supply system that ensures each farmer has a scheduled date to deliver produce. “We have a schedule for them. A farmer knows that on a particular date, he is supplying cassava to Fountain Foods, and we do not bypass anyone when their time comes because they are expecting that opportunity,” she said. She explained that the system helps guarantee a reliable supply of raw materials while also giving farmers a stable market for their produce. According to her, Fountain Foods currently produces about 650 tons of flour each year, in addition to other products such as pepper powder, ginger powder, natural mixed spices, and ground nut paste. Despite this output, Dr. Dadzie noted that demand for cassava-based products continues to rise across the country. “The demand is quite high, and we are working very hard to meet it,” she said, adding that the company sometimes has to extend working hours to fulfill urgent orders from distributors in different parts of the country. Dr. Dadzie encouraged greater collaboration within the agro-processing sector, stressing that partnerships among processors could help businesses expand their markets while meeting increasing consumer demand. 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

Virtual University

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

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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.

Uncategorized

Enterprise Group Unveils “Enterprise Spotlight” Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge

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In a bold move to bridge the gap between entrepreneurial ambition and institutional support, Enterprise Group PLC has officially launched Enterprise Spotlight, a high-stakes competition designed to propel Ghana’s brightest young business minds into the national limelight. Launched on March 16, 2026, at Advantage Place in Accra, the initiative is being delivered in partnership with Springboard Road Show Foundation (SRSF). It will air nationally on Springboard, Your Virtual University, broadcast on Joy FM 99.7 and Joy News TV, beginning Sunday May 10, 2026. The Enterprise Spotlight Challenge is open to entrepreneurs aged 18 to 40 across Ghana and from every sector of the economy, with women and persons with disabilities expressly encouraged to apply. The competition will select 24 entrepreneurs through a nationwide application process, placing them through a rigorous assessment journey before a national broadcast audience. Participants who advance through the various stages of the competition will receive direct financial support. The Overall Winner will receive GHS 100,000, the First Runner-Up GHS 80,000, and the Second Runner-Up GHS 50,000. Semi-finalists will receive GHS 10,000 each, while quarterfinalists will receive GHS 5,000 each to support the growth of their businesses. In addition, a Most Resilient Award of GHS 10,000 has been established to recognize and support an entrepreneur living with a disability. While the financial rewards are significant, Enterprise Spotlight distinguishes itself through a multi-layered support system designed to move entrepreneurs beyond funding into visibility, mentorship, and national market access. Every selected participant, regardless of how far they progress, walks away with formal enrolment in a structured Mentoring and Counselling Program, a dedicated business showcase on Springboard, Your Virtual University, and direct access to Springboard’s nationwide network of over one million young Ghanaians, enabling peer-to-peer learning, collaboration, and potential B2B partnerships. Through the Springboard mentoring framework, participants also gain access to trained psychologists and counsellors, providing the psychosocial support that young innovators need to navigate the demanding realities of building and scaling businesses in Ghana. “Enterprise Group has always believed that business growth and national development are inseparable. With Enterprise Spotlight, we are putting that belief into practice, investing in entrepreneurs who are building real businesses, creating real jobs, and solving real problems in communities across Ghana. This is our commitment to the next generation of Ghanaian enterprise.” — Jacqueline Naadu Benyi, Managing Director, Enterprise Life For Springboard, the competition represents a natural extension of its core mandate and a channel through which its institutional infrastructure is being placed directly in the hands of entrepreneurs who need it most. “Ghana’s entrepreneurs have always been ready. They did not need to be discovered; they needed a door to be opened. Enterprise Spotlight is that door. Entrepreneurs are not simply receiving a prize; they are being onboarded onto a platform, a network, and a proven system of support Springboard has used to transform young Ghanaians for over twenty years. Every entrepreneur who walks through this process will leave stronger than they arrived.” — Comfort Ocran, Executive Director, Springboard Road Show Foundation Applications are open with immediate effect. Eligible candidates must operate a registered business within Ghana and be between the ages of 18 and 40. The application deadline is Monday April 6, 2026. To apply, kindly visit www.myenterprisegroup.io or www.springboard.com.gh. Once you are on the website, you will see a “Scan Me” QR code. Simply scan the code, or click on the link provided, and it will take you directly to the application form, where you can complete and submit your application. Applicants can also call 024999555 or 0308 255 775 for more information About Enterprise Group PLC Enterprise Group PLC is a leading financial services company comprising six operating companies: Enterprise Insurance Company, Enterprise Life Assurance Company, Enterprise Trustees, Enterprise Properties, Enterprise Funeral Services Ghana trading as ‘Transitions – The Funeral People’ and Acacia Health Insurance. The Company is headquartered in Accra and has operations in The Gambia and Nigeria.

Hangout, News

Comfort Ocran Marks International Women’s Day with the National Pensions Regulatory Authority.

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March 9, 2026, was an inspiring moment of reflection and dialogue as Comfort Ocran, Executive Director of the Springboard Road Show Foundation, joined the National Pensions Regulatory Authority to commemorate International Women’s Day under the theme “Give to Gain.” The gathering celebrated the achievements, resilience, and contributions of women while marking an important milestone: the launch of the NPRA Women’s Wing. The initiative is designed to create a platform that encourages mentorship, strengthens community among women, and empowers women to reach greater heights in their personal and professional lives. Mrs. Ocran delivered remarks on the topic “Empowering Women, Securing Futures: Leadership and Impact in the Pension Sector.” Speaking to over 50 women of the Authority, she shared practical insights on the importance of financial planning and long-term investing as critical foundations for a secure retirement. She emphasized that consistent investment over time can create sustainable financial returns and long-term stability. Her message also highlighted the transformative role women play not only as professionals and leaders, but as builders of resilient families, stronger communities, and inclusive economic growth. “Securing your future isn’t just about you. It is about your children and the generations after them,” she noted. Mrs. Ocran also encouraged women to actively support one another in their journeys toward leadership and financial independence. “Financial security is part of empowerment. Empowerment is incomplete if a woman works hard all her life and still struggles in old age.” The engagement reaffirmed the commitment of the Springboard Road Show Foundation to empower young people, particularly women, to achieve their full potential while contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable society. Deputy CEO Victor Azuma Majida, speaking on behalf of the CEO of NPRA, Mr. Chris Boadi-Mensah highlighted the launch of the NPRA Women’s Wing as a journey to equality and empowerment. He emphasized “Creating an inclusive environment is vital for amplifying every voice. This initiative aims to provide resources and support for women, fostering a collaborative hub for inspiration and addressing challenges”. Majida noted that inclusive leadership boosts performance and innovation, asserting that investing in women’s leadership is essential for advancing gender equality and enhancing NPRA’s vision and mission for the future. Also, in her remarks Madam Efua Appiah-Gyimah, leader of NPRA Women’s Wing spoke about the significance of the establishment of the women’s wing.   “The establishment of this Wing represents a deliberate commitment to creating a supportive platform that encourages mentorship, leadership development, collaboration, and empowerment among women in the authority. It is a connection where women can share experiences, nurture talent, build confidence, and inspire one another to reach greater heights.” She said. Madam Efua Appiah – Gyimah added that the initiative reflects the Authority’s broader commitment to inclusion, excellence, and institutional growth. The event concluded as a moment of reflection, inspiration, and renewed commitment to ensuring that more women are equipped to plan boldly for their futures while uplifting others along the way.  

Virtual University

Komenda College of Education Funds Staff Housing and 2,500 Seat Auditorium Through Agriculture

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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

Virtual University

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

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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