Agriculture

Virtual University

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

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Motivational speaker, author, and Chief Executive Officer of Hearts and Habits Foundation, Elder Amos Kevin-Annan, has called for greater father involvement in the lives of children, revealing that the absence of active fatherhood can have far-reaching consequences for families and society. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, with host Pastor. Albert Ocran, Elder Annan said children need more than a father’s physical presence. According to him, fathers must be actively engaged in the lives of their children if they are to provide the stability, guidance, and security young people need to thrive. Citing findings from studies on fatherhood, he added that children with active fathers are significantly less likely to experience teenage pregnancy and incarceration, stressing that father involvement plays a critical role in shaping a child’s future. “Fathers should be reminded that they are needed in the life of the child to bring some modicum of stability,” he said. The CEO noted that many fathers focus heavily on providing financially for their families while overlooking the equally important responsibility of building emotional connections with their children. He explained that a father’s role extends beyond being a provider to becoming a source of encouragement, protection, mentorship, and support. He warned that many homes are experiencing what he described as “the presence of the absent father”, a situation where fathers are physically available but remain disconnected from the daily experiences of their children. “If you’re a father, when you are home, your presence must be noticed. When you are not at home, your absence must be felt,” he said. According to him, fathers must intentionally create time for meaningful conversations, listen to their children, maintain eye contact during interactions, and share their personal experiences and struggles. Such openness, he said, helps children relate better to their parents and gives them confidence to deal with their own challenges. The speaker also urged fathers to pay attention to their emotional well-being and avoid suffering in silence during difficult periods. He observed that many men internalize pain, job losses, financial struggles, and disappointments because they feel pressure to appear strong at all times. He encouraged families and communities to show greater understanding and support to men going through difficult seasons, noting that encouragement often produces better outcomes than criticism. Reflecting on how fathers can improve their impact, he advised men to learn from their own childhood experiences, remain present in the lives of their families, reduce distractions, and prioritize meaningful relationships over constant work. Elder Annan emphasized that while providing for a family is important, fathers should not sacrifice connection for achievement. He said children often remember the time, attention, and interest their fathers showed in them long after material provisions have been forgotten. The discussion formed part of a special Father’s Day edition of Springboard, Your Virtual University, where Elder Annan shared insights on the importance of fatherhood and the lasting influence fathers have on the development of children and families. Watch full episode here… https://www.youtube.com/live/fM5B1zW3Bvs?si=A-VUm47aHwMKQy1d About Springboard, Your Virtual University Springboard, Your Virtual University, is a weekly motivational and personal development broadcast produced by the Springboard Road Show Foundation and hosted by Pastor. Albert Ocran. The broadcast airs every Sunday at 7 PM on  Joy 99.7 FM and on Springboard Channel & Albert Ocran (Facebook & YouTube)  and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. The discussion forms part of an ongoing series exploring the various roles of managers in organizations and the skills required to lead people, drive performance, and achieve institutional goals. Through conversations with experienced leaders, the series provides practical lessons for current and aspiring managers. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

Virtual University

Employees Must Be Given Ownership, Not Just Instructions, Says Lily Nutakor

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Registrar of Central University, Madam Lily Nutakor, has called on organizational leaders to move beyond simply assigning tasks and instead create opportunities for employees to take ownership of their work, adding that institutions achieve greater success when people feel personally invested in outcomes. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, with host Pastor Albert Ocran, Madam Nutakor said one of the biggest responsibilities of leaders is creating an environment where employees are empowered to contribute ideas, innovate, and participate meaningfully in decision-making. According to her, institutions thrive when workers see organizational success as their own responsibility rather than merely carrying out instructions from management. “If we have people who treat the institution as theirs, you can be sure they can move the institution forward,” she said. She described intrapreneurship as the heartbeat of successful institutions, explaining that innovation, resilience, relevance, and long-term growth often come from employees who are given the freedom to contribute beyond their formal job descriptions. She noted that leaders must deliberately create room for people to own processes and bring forward ideas that can improve organizational performance. “You give people the opportunity to own the processes. You get people to innovate,” she stated. Drawing lessons from successful global organizations, she explained that some of the world’s most impactful innovations emerged because employees were encouraged to pursue ideas they were passionate about and were trusted to contribute to the growth of their organizations. The Central University Registrar stressed that involving employees in organizational processes does more than improve performance. It also creates commitment, accountability, and a stronger sense of belonging. “When people are given that opportunity, they give off their best,” she said. Madam Nutakor further noted that leadership decisions should not be limited to boardroom discussions. She explained that every decision made by management affects people throughout an organization and must therefore take into account the broader impact on employees and stakeholders. She urged managers to adopt a more inclusive leadership style that allows people at all levels to contribute meaningfully to institutional growth and success. She added that organizations that encourage ownership, participation, and innovation are more likely to remain resilient and relevant in a rapidly changing environment. Watch the full episode here https://www.youtube.com/live/HOJDxI7lZOw?si=jXTMcsg_5p3M1AkY About Springboard, Your Virtual University Springboard, Your Virtual University, is a weekly motivational and personal development broadcast produced by the Springboard Road Show Foundation and hosted by Pastor. Albert Ocran. The broadcast airs every Sunday at 7 PM on  Joy 99.7 FM and on Springboard Channel & Albert Ocran (Facebook & YouTube)  and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. The discussion forms part of an ongoing series exploring the various roles of managers in organizations and the skills required to lead people, drive performance, and achieve institutional goals. Through conversations with experienced leaders, the series provides practical lessons for current and aspiring managers. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

News

Bridget Eshun Wins GHS100,000 Grand Prize at Enterprise Spotlight Challenge

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Bridget Eshun, Founder of Delsoy Milk Drink Limited in Ghana’s Central Region, has emerged as the overall winner of the Enterprise Spotlight Challenge. The Enterprise Spotlight is a nationwide entrepreneurship initiative by Enterprise Group PLC and the Springboard Road Show Foundation, designed to discover, fund, and elevate the next generation of Ghanaian business leaders. The highly competitive challenge received 468 applications from various sectors across the country. Bridget Eshun took home the grand prize of GHS100,000. When Bridget entered the competition, she brought with her strong belief in her vision and a determination to address a pressing societal need. Her business provides nutritious, plant-based milk alternatives made from soya beans targeting lactose-intolerant individuals and lactating mothers. Delsoy Milk Drink Limited also promotes environmental sustainability through a zero-waste production model, converting soybean by-products into feed for pig and poultry farming. “We say a very big thank you to Enterprise Group and Springboard Road Show Foundation for giving Delsoy Milk Drink Limited this spotlight. We promise to make you and Mother Ghana proud.” says Bridget Eshun, Founder, Delsoy Milk Drink Limited. Other winners included: Ernest Sampong Darko, CEO of Duckpro Ghana (Eastern Region), who secured second place and GHS80,000 for developing plant-based protein supplements for the poultry, aquaculture, and livestock industries—helping reduce feed costs for smallholder farmers. Emmanuella Yayra Ameevor, Founder of ORAVE Juices (Greater Accra Region), who placed third and won GHS50,000 for producing natural, probiotic juices while converting organic waste into fertilizer to support farming communities. Beyond building profitable ventures, the top three entrepreneurs are creating employment opportunities, empowering youth and smallholder farmers, and driving innovation in Ghana’s agribusiness sector. The total prize pool for the challenge was GHS500,000. In addition to the cash prizes, winners will benefit from a one-year structured mentoring and counseling programme, along with national exposure to support business growth and scalability. Albert Ocran, Technical Director of the Springboard Road Show Foundation, says “We are absolutely proud of all the winners,” He also expressed gratitude   to the judges, Enterprise Group, and all partners for their commitment throughout the challenge. In his congratulatory remarks to the winners, Daniel Larbi-Tieku, Group CEO of Enterprise Group, said: “What you are seeing today is the result of effort, commitment, and an unshakeable belief in your ideas. You have earned this.” The Most Resilient Award As part of the Enterprise Spotlight Challenge, A Most Resilient Award – a GHS10,000 cash prize — was dedicated to a person with a disability who demonstrated outstanding resilience. One of the most inspiring stories this year was that of Foli Elisha Kofi, Founder of Mycocostuff Ghana. Through innovation and determination, he has built a business that transforms coconut waste into eco-friendly products. Elisha’s resilience earned him recognition at the Young Innovators Awards and a place among the Top 24 finalists of the Enterprise Spotlight Challenge. He ultimately won the Most Resilient Award for his remarkable entrepreneurial journey. “Winning the Most Resilient Award means more than recognition to me. It is a reminder that despite the challenges persons with disabilities face daily, we still have the strength to keep building, creating, and inspiring others.” says Foli Elisha Kofi, Founder, Mycocostuff Ghana. 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. Enterprise is now ISO 27001 Certified. Your data safety guaranteed. About Springboard Road Show Foundation Springboard Road Show Foundation (SRSF) is a Ghanaian non-profit organization committed to raising the next generation of African leaders and entrepreneurs. Through youth mobilization, mindset change, skills development, and national engagement platforms, SRSF supports young women, men, persons with disability and displaced persons to build agency, unlock opportunity, and contribute meaning fully to Ghana’s socio-economic development. Media and PR Unit Springboard Road Show Foundation (SRSF) 024 9999 555 / 0308 255 775

Hangout

African Brands Must Compete Globally Through Innovation and Culture, Says Gold Coast Tokota Founder

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Founder and CEO of Gold Coast Tokota, Samuel Kumi-Gyau, says African businesses must move beyond local recognition and build globally competitive brands through innovation, cultural identity, and strategic partnerships. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, the Ghanaian entrepreneur said that African-made products can compete confidently in international markets when businesses focus on quality, research, and strong brand positioning. According to him, Gold Coast Tokota was intentionally built to challenge perceptions about African manufacturing while helping people reconnect with African heritage through footwear. “We are changing the narrative about manufacturing in Africa,” he stated. Mr. Kum-Gyau explained that the company combines traditional African craftsmanship with modern design and sustainability, producing footwear from recycled materials such as sachet rubber, car tyres, old jeans, and plastic containers. He noted that innovation remains central to the company’s growth strategy, revealing that the brand has expanded beyond Ghana through partnerships in Nairobi, London, Dubai, Miami, and Johannesburg. “We are not just producing Ahenema,” he said. “We are producing Orthopaedic Ahenema.” The entrepreneur stressed that research has played a major role in helping the company stand out in an increasingly competitive market. Before launching the brand, he said he travelled outside Ghana to understand how international customers would perceive African footwear products. “That research changed everything about our products,” he explained. The founder further disclosed that Gold Coast Tokota currently operates multiple outlets across Accra and produces about 20 pairs of footwear daily. Beyond footwear production, he revealed plans to build a broader leather ecosystem in the future through cattle farming and local leather production to reduce dependence on imported materials. “Ten years from now, Gold Coast Tokota will not just be a footwear brand,” he said. “We want to build our own leather ecosystem.” He also highlighted the importance of building strong teams, stating that one of the biggest decisions that transformed his business was employing people who possessed expertise beyond his own. “The game changer has always been employing people who know more than me,” he said. He encouraged young entrepreneurs to focus on learning, networking, and creating value rather than chasing quick financial gains. “Money is people,” he stated. “If the right people connect to your brand, opportunities will follow.” Watch the full episode here https://www.youtube.com/live/H0k3CbTJA3M?si=qhsixDJfaGk6lkyE About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences aimed at educating, entertaining, and equipping the next generation. The programme airs every Saturday at 4:00 PM on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel on Facebook and YouTube. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

Hangout

“Many Mothers Are Silently Slipping Into Depression” — Eno Quagraine Calls for More Empathy and Support for Women

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Founder and CEO of Talkative Mom LLC and Petite Elite Preschool, Eno Quagraine, has called for greater emotional support and empathy for mothers, revealing that many women silently battle postpartum depression, emotional exhaustion, and overwhelming pressure after childbirth. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, the Founder shared her personal experience with childbirth and postpartum struggles, describing how the emotional and physical challenges of motherhood are often overlooked in society. According to her, many women are made to believe childbirth is simply a natural process that every woman should endure without complaint, making it difficult for struggling mothers to openly speak about their pain. The CEO explained that she struggled with breastfeeding, healing after childbirth, sleep deprivation, and pressure from people around her, leaving her feeling emotionally overwhelmed. “I felt like I was failing,” she stated while recounting her experience. The motherhood advocate noted that many women in Ghana continue to suffer silently because conversations around maternal mental health remain limited and misunderstood. “You can be grateful for motherhood and still be upset about what you are going through,” she said. Drawing from conversations within her Talkative Mom community, she stated that many mothers also struggle with childcare pressures, lack of support systems, marital strain, unsolicited advice from family members, and the constant pressure to appear strong. She added that many women eventually lose themselves in the process of motherhood because they prioritize everyone else while neglecting their own well-being. According to her, this reality pushed her community to intentionally create wellness spaces where mothers can rest, reconnect with themselves, and openly discuss their struggles without fear of judgment. She urged families, health workers, friends, and society at large to become more supportive towards mothers, especially during the early stages of motherhood. “We should extend more empathy and be less judgmental,” she stressed. 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 Not a Title but a Way of Thinking, Says Professor Robert Hinson

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Professor of Marketing at the University of Ghana Business School, Professor Robert Hinson, has described the entrepreneurial mindset as a disciplined way of thinking that goes far beyond starting a business, stressing that it is a cultivated habit rooted in how individuals see problems and respond to them. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, with host Pastor Albert Ocran, Professor Hinson explained that entrepreneurs are not defined by job titles or ownership of businesses, but by a consistent ability to identify opportunities where others see obstacles. He said, “Somebody who has an entrepreneurial mindset is a restless opportunity identifier. It is like your senses are always active. Whether you are asleep or awake, you are constantly picking signals, constantly asking what can be done here that others are not seeing.” According to him, this way of thinking is not reserved for business owners alone. He noted that it can be found in professionals across different fields, including corporate environments, ministry, and public service, as long as the individual is committed to solving problems and driving change. Professor Hinson emphasised that at the heart of entrepreneurship is a strong focus on value creation rather than immediate financial gain. He cautioned that individuals who begin their journey with a narrow focus on money often struggle to endure the challenges that come with building anything meaningful. “I think there is a likelihood they may fail, particularly because if you start out with money, money, money, it is very difficult to be resilient when problems come. But if you go in with a sense of wanting to make a real impact and solve problems, you develop the staying power to keep going,” he said. He explained that successful entrepreneurs are typically driven by a desire to solve significant problems that benefit others, and that financial reward often follows as a result of the value they create. Beyond value, Professor Hinson outlined resilience as a defining trait, noting that the entrepreneurial journey is marked by setbacks and uncertainty. He said individuals must develop what he described as “shock absorbers” to withstand challenges and remain committed to their vision. “You must understand that obstacles will occur. But because you have a certain fixation on where you are going, you are able to stay the course, even when things are not working immediately,” he stated. He also highlighted the importance of continuous learning, describing knowledge as the fuel that sustains entrepreneurial relevance over time. Without it, he warned, individuals risk becoming outdated in a rapidly changing environment. “True professional power comes from the quality of knowledge you consume, not once, but lifelong. If the fuel finishes, the car will not move,” he explained. The marketing professor further pointed to mentorship and practical exposure as critical to developing entrepreneurial competence. Drawing from his own experience, he noted that guidance from experienced professionals often delivers more practical value than theoretical knowledge alone. “There are people who have travelled the road for decades. When they sit with you and give you direction, it can move you forward faster than reading many books,” he said. On the role of action, Professor Hinson stressed that entrepreneurs are not passive thinkers but decisive individuals who move quickly once they identify opportunities. He described this as an “action bias,” where individuals rely on sufficient information to act rather than waiting for perfect conditions. He also addressed the future of work, warning that technological shifts, particularly artificial intelligence, will redefine opportunities and make adaptability essential. “Whether you like it or not, artificial intelligence has redefined the rules of business. You must become more literate in it, and if your industry is at risk, you must innovate or risk becoming irrelevant,” 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 series dubbed “The Entrepreneurial Mindset.” Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

Virtual University

Failure, Survival, and Smart Partnerships Shape Entrepreneurial Success – Alloysius Attah, CEO, Farmerline

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Co-founder and CEO of Farmerline, Alloysius Attah, has attributed his journey in building a global AgriTech company to persistence through failure, a strong sense of purpose, and learning to work with others rather than in isolation. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, as part of the ongoing series, The Entrepreneurial Mindset, with host Pastor Albert Ocran, Mr. Attah shared that his path into entrepreneurship was not planned, but driven by necessity and shaped by experiences that forced him to think differently about growth and opportunity. Reflecting on his early years, he explained that his initial goal was rooted in family responsibility. “The vision at the time was very simple: study hard, be among the best, get a job, make money, and support my aunt and my family in the best way I can,” he said, noting that this early motivation laid the foundation for his discipline and drive. The CEO revealed that his entry into entrepreneurship came from survival rather than ambition. Coming from a modest background, he had to find ways to support himself through university. “When I got there, from the first week, I was selling calculators, whatever I needed to do to make money. I knew after the first year my dad would not have enough to support me, so I had to work with my hands,” he stated. He noted that many of the skills that later shaped his career were not acquired in the classroom, but through exposure and curiosity. His involvement in a university choir introduced him to programming, while a campus mission exposed him to media production. These experiences eventually led him to build businesses even while still a student. According to him, one of the defining lessons in his journey has been the importance of creating value before seeking profit. “You cannot make money if you do not create value. And if you are working with people who are already struggling, you have to build trust first, create value, and then you can capture a fraction of that value as income,” he explained. Mr. Attah also spoke about the difficult moments that nearly led him to quit. He recounted a period when his team could not afford salaries and survived on a single shared meal each day. “We had hired people, but we could not pay them properly. The best we could do was eat together once a day. At that moment, the future looked very blurry, and I was already thinking about alternative plans,” he said. Despite these setbacks, a major turning point came when his company secured international recognition and funding. This validation, he said, gave them the confidence and support needed to scale their work. He emphasised that one of the biggest mistakes young entrepreneurs make is trying to do everything alone. Drawing from his own experience, he explained that collaboration became necessary after repeated failure. “You try to do everything yourself; you get tired, you get beaten, you get depressed, and then you realize it is not wise. You can win through others, which is smarter and more efficient,” he noted. The Co-founder further highlighted a critical business decision that shaped the future of his company. Faced with the choice between immediate financial gain and long-term value, he chose to retain ownership of his company’s intellectual property. “We had the option to take quick money or own what we were building. We decided to take less money and keep the IP, and that decision has led to everything we have today,” he said, adding that the same technology has since generated significant investment and impact. Today, Farmerline works with thousands of partners across multiple countries, using technology to support farmers with training, financing, and market access. Attah explained that this scale was only possible through partnerships. “We focused on what we do best and worked with others who bring their strengths. That is how you grow without trying to control everything,” he said. On the future of entrepreneurship in Africa, he pointed to agriculture as a major opportunity for economic growth. He encouraged young people to take practical steps rather than waiting for perfect conditions. “We have the land, we have the youth, and the world needs food. There is no excuse. Start small, grow something, and make money from it,” he advised. Mr. Attah added that success is built over time through difficult choices, consistent effort, and a willingness to learn from failure. 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

Hangout

Clinical Psychologist Samuel Panti Cautions Young People Against Hiding Mental Health Struggles

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Clinical psychologist Samuel Panti has cautioned young people against keeping their mental health struggles to themselves, stating that silence can deepen challenges and lead to serious long-term consequences. Speaking on Springboard Hangout, with host Comfort Ocran, Mr. Panti stressed that many individuals delay seeking help because they believe they must handle their problems alone or fear being judged. He explained that this mindset is not only misleading but harmful, as human beings are wired to depend on one another for support. According to him, “we are not meant to deal with this whole life by ourselves,” adding that isolation often worsens mental health conditions that could otherwise be managed early with the right support. The Clinical Psychologist noted that one of the most common yet overlooked dangers is the habit of internalizing stress. He explained that people may appear fine on the outside while struggling internally, which delays intervention and allows the situation to escalate. He emphasized that mental health challenges do not always begin as severe conditions. Instead, they often start as small issues such as poor sleep, negative thinking patterns, or emotional distress. However, when ignored, these can gradually affect a person’s physical health, relationships, and productivity. “If you keep it there for a longer period and you do not address it, the impact can be huge,” he said. Addressing the stigma around seeking help, Mr. Panti challenged the belief that asking for support is a sign of weakness. He explained that reaching out is a step toward strength and recovery, especially when one’s personal coping capacity has been stretched. “At a point in time, you get tired. At a point in time, your bank will get depleted. You have to ask for help,” he said. He further encouraged individuals to identify trusted people within their circles, including friends, family members, or professionals, who can provide a safe space for honest conversations. He advised seeking therapists or counsellors who are trained to offer guidance and support. Mr. Panti noted that mental health must become a regular part of everyday conversations in homes, schools, and communities, and believes that normalizing these discussions will make it easier for people to speak up early and receive the help they need before their situation worsens. 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

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

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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

Hangout

“Fear Is Delaying Treatment and Costing Lives” — Dr. Sompa  Otabil-Nelson Urges Young People to Stop Avoiding Health Checks

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Family & Holistic Medicine Physician & CEO of Dinah-Gayle Medical Clinic, Dr. Sompa Otabil-Nelson, has raised concern over the growing tendency among young people to delay seeking medical care out of fear, warning that this hesitation is allowing manageable conditions to become life-threatening. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, she revealed that many individuals ignore symptoms or postpone hospital visits for months, only seeking help when their condition has significantly worsened. According to her, the issue is not always a lack of access, but fear of diagnosis. She explained that even when people notice unusual changes in their bodies, they often choose silence over action, hoping the problem will resolve on its own. Dr. Sompa disclosed that in some cases, individuals take as long as 8 to 10 months to see a doctor after detecting symptoms. Even after an initial consultation, many delay further tests or treatment for several more months because they are afraid of what they might find. “Fear will cripple you and can even kill you,” she stated, stressing that delay remains one of the biggest threats to effective healthcare. She noted that many of these conditions, including certain cancers, can be treated successfully when detected early. However, the window for effective treatment narrows significantly when patients wait too long. Early-stage conditions, she explained, often have high recovery rates, but that advantage is lost when diagnosis is delayed. Dr. Sompa emphasised that this pattern is particularly worrying among young people, who often assume they are healthy and therefore do not prioritize routine checkups. This false sense of security, she said, prevents early detection of silent conditions that develop without obvious symptoms. She further explained that the body can adapt to underlying problems for long periods, giving individuals the impression that everything is normal until a sudden health crisis occurs. Beyond fear, she also pointed to a lack of structured health planning, noting that many people do not have a consistent relationship with a medical professional who understands their history and can guide them over time. To address the situation, she urged young people to take deliberate steps toward preventive care, starting with regular medical checkups at least once a year. She stressed that health should not be treated as a one-time concern but as a continuous responsibility. “If you do not know what is happening in your body, how will you know when something is wrong? The earlier you deal with it, the better your chances,” she said, calling for a shift in mindset where people choose action over avoidance when it comes to their health. 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