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Hangout, News

Businesses Owned by Persons With Disabilities Must Be Treated as Businesses, Not Charity

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President of the Ghana Chamber for Entrepreneurs with Disabilities, Mr. Alexander Tetteh, has called for a change in the way businesses owned by persons with disabilities are perceived, urging the public to treat them as legitimate businesses rather than charity projects. He said buying products from entrepreneurs with disabilities out of sympathy may offer temporary support, but does little to help their businesses become sustainable and competitive. “Sometimes when disabled people produce products, we don’t see it as a business. We see it as a charity,” Mr. Tetteh said. “We should see it with a business eye, so that we support them to grow and expand. But if we see it as charity, it will not grow.” He made the remarks during an episode of Springboard Hangout with Comfort Ocran, which focused on redefining inclusion and creating greater opportunities for persons with disabilities. The discussion featured young entrepreneur Elisha Kofi Foli, Founder of Mycocostuff Ghana, whose business turns discarded coconut shells into eco-friendly products, including cups, plates, phone stands, earrings, buttons, and other household and fashion accessories. Mr. Foli explained that he started the business after observing the large amounts of coconut waste in his community, particularly after rainfall and flooding. Rather than focusing only on plastic waste, he decided to find value in another common form of waste. His business now employs three people on a part-time basis, with the potential to create more jobs as demand increases. However, market acceptance remains one of his major challenges. Mr. Foli noted that some customers focus on his disability and approach his products with sympathy instead of appreciating their quality and commercial value. That experience, he said, has strengthened his determination to demonstrate that persons with disabilities can build viable businesses and contribute meaningfully to society. Mr. Tetteh said the Ghana Chamber for Entrepreneurs with Disabilities, which has mobilized more than 4,000 entrepreneurs with disabilities, works to address some of these challenges through market access, funding opportunities, training and policy advocacy. The Chamber also creates opportunities for entrepreneurs to exhibit their products and connect with potential customers. Beyond market access, Mr. Tetteh called for more inclusive business policies, noting that not every person with a disability would find employment in the formal sector. He therefore advocated for entrepreneurship to be included in policies aimed at improving employment opportunities for persons with disabilities. He also stressed the need for accessible public spaces, respectful language and positive attitudes towards persons with disabilities. For him, inclusion goes beyond physical access. It requires society to recognise persons with disabilities as equal participants in education, employment, business and public life. Mr. Foli, who won the Most Resilient Award at the Enterprise Spotlight Challenge, a youth entrepreneurship challenge by the Enterprise Group with technical support from Springboard Road Show Foundation in April 2026,  encouraged persons with disabilities to be confident, pursue available opportunities and stand up for their rights within the law. The discussion formed part of Springboard Hangout with Comfort Ocran’s ongoing conversation on redefining inclusion and promoting a society where persons with disabilities can pursue dignified and fulfilling work. Watch the full interview here… https://www.youtube.com/live/2RQCakxBI_U?si=jmHkbefN-5iLR1Tf 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

“Turning 60 Is Not the End. It Is Time to Contribute More” – Comfort Ocran

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Turning 60 should not be seen as the end of one’s productive years but as an opportunity to make an even greater contribution to society, Executive Director of the Springboard Road Show Foundation, Comfort Ocran, has said. Speaking on Springboard Hangout, Mrs. Ocran challenged the common perception that growing older signals the end of purpose, explaining that her latest book, Planted by the Rivers of Water, was inspired by a desire to encourage people to remain fruitful and relevant at every stage of life. Drawing inspiration from Psalm 1, she said the image of a tree planted by rivers of water reflects a life that continues to bear fruit regardless of age. “I don’t feel a day after 30,” she said. “God never talks about the end. He talks about contributing to society.” The Executive Director explained that the collection of 60 poems was carefully selected from more than 100 poems she had written over the years to commemorate her 60th birthday. According to her, the book captures life’s full journey, including moments of joy, pain, loss, gratitude, faith, and purpose. She noted that while life presents both good and difficult seasons, hope must always have the final word. “If somebody talks about only the good, that is not life. That is not real,” she said. “Even when I become a bit dark in my writing, I always leave a sliver of joy that reminds people there is hope around the corner.” Mrs. Ocran also credited her faith as the foundation of everything she has accomplished, saying her relationship with God has shaped her outlook on life, leadership, and service. “I won’t be here without faith. Without God, there is no Comfort Ocran,” she stated. Encouraging young people not to limit themselves, she urged them to remain curious, keep learning, and trust that every life has been intentionally designed by God. “God is very intentional and very deliberate,” she said. “There is nothing you cannot do. You may not see it yet, but if you draw close to Him, He is able to make your life a beautiful one.” She made these remarks during a special edition of Springboard Hangout, where she took the guest seat to discuss Planted by the Rivers of Water, a collection of poems launched as part of her 60th birthday celebration. Watch the full conversation here: https://www.youtube.com/live/BCVC_Au5OaM?si=MPyBR9I9OOI16tBW 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

Many Salaried Workers Are Living in Financial Emergency Without Knowing It, Says EDC Investment Limited MD, Paul Mante

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Managing Director of Ecobank Development Corporation Investment Limited, Paul Mante, has disclosed that many salaried workers are living in what he describes as a financial emergency because they would be unable to sustain their normal lifestyle for six months if their salaries suddenly stopped. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University with host Pastor Albert Ocran, Mr. Mante urged individuals and families to conduct a midyear review of their finances, just as businesses assess their performance halfway through the year, to determine whether they are making progress toward financial independence. According to him, anyone who cannot maintain their current standard of living for at least six months without a salary should treat the situation as an emergency and begin taking deliberate steps to change it. “If you answer that question and you will not survive for more than six months, you are in a critical state. It is life-threatening. You need to see a financial doctor for an emergency surgery,” he said. Drawing on more than two decades of experience in the financial sector, Mr. Mante explained that financial independence begins with changing one’s mindset about money. He said many people focus only on earning an income but fail to retain and grow it, leaving them financially exposed despite years of employment. He identified three stages of personal financial management as receiving money, retaining money, and reproducing money through investments. While many people are taught how to earn an income, he noted that very few are taught how to preserve wealth or make money. The Managing Director attributed the country’s low level of financial literacy to the fact that money management is rarely taught either at home or in school. As a result, many people enter the workforce without the knowledge needed to build long-term financial security. He encouraged workers to increase their earning capacity by acquiring new skills, creating multiple sources of income, and investing consistently instead of depending solely on their monthly salaries. He also advised individuals to invest at least 20 percent of their income and avoid allowing lifestyle changes to consume every salary increase. According to him, financial discipline today creates the freedom to make choices later in life based on purpose rather than financial pressure. Mr. Mante further cautioned against procrastination and excuses, encouraging people to begin their financial independence journey immediately regardless of their current income level. “The best time you should have started your journey towards financial independence was years ago. The next best time is now,” he said. Watch the full episode here… https://www.youtube.com/live/Bbg6-uDUr7k?si=xGzSWjP6UE3qf2JM 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 (YouTube)  and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

News

Comfort Ocran Calls for Greater Investment in Ghana’s Youth to Secure the Nation’s Future

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Ghana’s greatest natural resource is its young people. With more than half of the population under the age of 35, the country has a vibrant generation filled with creativity, ambition, resilience, and innovation. Across entrepreneurship, technology, agriculture, education, and the creative arts, young Ghanaians continue to demonstrate enormous potential to drive economic growth and national transformation. Unlocking this potential, however, requires more than hope. It requires deliberate investment in skills development, education, innovation, and opportunities that enable young people to thrive. Speaking at the recent Ghana Futures Dialogue, held under the theme “Ghana 2050: What Must We Build Today?”, Executive Director of Springboard Road Show Foundation, Comfort Ocran, said Ghana’s future prosperity will depend largely on how intentionally the nation prepares and positions its young people for leadership, productivity, and inclusive growth. She stressed that by placing youth empowerment at the centre of policy and national development, Ghana can transform its youthful population into a powerful engine for national prosperity. “Every young person has potential,” she said. “What they lack is opportunity.” Turning Potential into National Prosperity To transform Ghana’s youth potential into national prosperity, the Executive Director proposed five key pathways: Critical Thinking, Skills, Enterprise, Linkages, and Employment. According to her, youth development must be treated as a deliberate and structured process rather than a one-time intervention. She also underscored the importance of building linkages that connect young people to markets, networks, institutions, industry leaders, and opportunities that can expand their reach and impact. Many promising youth-led initiatives, she noted, do not fail because of a lack of potential, but because young people remain disconnected from the ecosystems that support growth and scale. These linkages, she explained, are essential for creating sustainable employment opportunities. When young people are equipped with relevant skills, supported to build enterprises, and connected to the right networks, they become active contributors to economic growth rather than passive job seekers. “If we invest well in one young person, we invest in a whole village,” Comfort Ocran said. “Building Ghana’s future requires that young people are given the opportunity and the inspiration to become multipliers and agents of national prosperity.” Ghana 2050: What We Must Build Today Looking ahead to 2050, Comfort Ocran identified three priorities that Ghana must pursue to prepare its youth for the future: Her closing remarks captured the urgency of the conversation. “Our young people do not need our politics. They need our partnership.” The Ghana Futures Dialogue, organised by the Brillianta Foundation, brings together leaders, students, academics, businesses, and policymakers to examine what Ghana must build today to thrive by 2050. Through dialogue and collaboration, the event explores leadership, education, innovation, community development, and national transformation as foundations for Ghana’s future prosperity. About Springboard Road Show Foundation. Springboard Road Show Foundation (SRSF) is a Ghanaian non-profit organisation committed to raising the next generation of African leaders and entrepreneurs. Through youth mobilisation, 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 meaningfully to Ghana’s socio-economic development. About Brillianta Foundation Brillianta Foundation is a United Kingdom-based youth development organisation dedicated to advancing youth empowerment initiatives, equipping young people with future-ready skills, strengthening organisations and industries, and fostering international partnerships that support youth prosperity.

Virtual University

“Comfort Is the Biggest Enemy of Personal Growth” –  Maame Ekua Gaisey

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Maame Ekua Gaisey, The People, Managing Partner, Five Six Five,  has cautioned that comfort is one of the biggest barriers to personal growth, saying many people fail to reach their full potential because they become satisfied with where they are instead of choosing growth despite the discomfort it brings. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University with Rev. Albert Ocran, she said lasting personal development is a deliberate process that requires individuals to continually make difficult choices, confront their fears, and pursue a better version of themselves every day. According to her, growth is never automatic. It demands intentional decisions every day, often requiring people to leave familiar environments, confront their fears, and accept the uncertainty that comes with becoming a better version of themselves. “Comfort is where you miss the opportunity to move,” she said, explaining that discomfort is one of the strongest triggers for progress because it pushes people to pursue more than their current circumstances. Madam Gaisey noted that the journey of personal development starts with self-awareness and honesty. She said individuals must first understand who they are, where they want to be, and honestly assess the gap between their current reality and their desired future before meaningful change can begin. She stressed that many people remain stuck because they avoid asking themselves difficult questions or reflecting deeply on their lives. Instead, they become occupied with constant activity without making real progress. “The best gift anybody could give themselves is to discover themselves,” she said, adding that self-discovery requires continuous reflection and the courage to confront uncomfortable truths. Drawing from her own life, she recounted how she abandoned her childhood ambition of becoming a medical doctor after recognizing that her true strengths and passion lay elsewhere. Despite the difficulty of changing direction, she said making that decision allowed her to pursue the path she was truly created for. She encouraged people to focus first on the kind of person they want to become before concentrating on positions, titles, or material success. She explained that developing character, values, curiosity, kindness, and a commitment to continuous learning naturally positions people for greater opportunities. The leadership coach also advised individuals to simplify their personal development goals by concentrating on no more than three priorities at a time. Attempting to pursue too many objectives simultaneously, she said, often leads to frustration and little meaningful progress. She further urged people to seek coaches, mentors, and trusted supporters who can ask difficult questions, provide honest feedback, and help them remain accountable throughout their growth journey. Madam Gaisey also cautioned against allowing unnecessary distractions and outside opinions to derail personal progress. She said people should clearly define both what they intend to pursue and what they deliberately choose to avoid, since eliminating distractions is as important as setting goals. Watch full episode here https://www.youtube.com/live/gRbDFwT6Jhc?si=I2g3tgRLMLHlM1rY 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

Hangout

Integrity Opens Doors You Cannot Yet See, Angela Berko Tells Young People

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Young people should treat every opportunity they receive with integrity because today’s responsibilities could become the foundation for tomorrow’s leadership, Ghanaian healthcare entrepreneur Angela Berko has advised. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, the Co-Founder and Director of McAngel Home Visiting Nurses in the United States said many people fail to recognize that the habits they build while working for others often prepare them for opportunities they have not yet imagined. Drawing from her own journey, the Registered Nurse recalled how, as a young employee at Legacy and Legacy, she was entrusted with significant responsibilities, including managing company finances and accounting for thousands of books sold during nationwide programmes. At the time, she simply focused on carrying out her duties faithfully, without realizing the experience was preparing her to one day lead her own healthcare organization. “It started there at that time. I did not know it, but it started there,” she said, explaining that the discipline, accountability, and attention to detail she developed early in her career continue to shape how she runs her business today. The Director, who now leads a home healthcare company employing between 40 and 50 professionals in the United States, said success in leadership begins long before someone starts a business. According to her, young professionals should approach every assignment with honesty because they never know where the experience may lead. “Whatever your hands are found to do now, whether you are working for yourself or someone else, have that level of integrity because you never know the stage being set for you as you are learning, studying, and watching,” she said. She also cautioned young people against rushing into entrepreneurship before they have gained the necessary knowledge and experience. “There are times we are in a hurry to move and be on our own, and you may not be ready. The spotlight can be very bright, and when you are not ready, it will burn you to a crisp. Study quietly, sometimes in the shadows. You do not know what you are learning until you are put on the spot,” she advised. She further encouraged young people not to underestimate their potential, saying every individual possesses abilities that can produce remarkable results if they remain disciplined and believe in themselves. “We all have such potential in us that has been put in us by God, and the reach of our dreams is only limited by our thoughts,” she said. Reflecting on her own journey from serving as an intern in Ghana to becoming the head of a successful healthcare company in the United States, The co-Founder said she would encourage her younger self to begin the journey without hesitation because every lesson learned along the way eventually contributed to her success. Watch the full episode here:  https://www.youtube.com/live/bRBxcIXnVd8?si=ttfxmMt2sC7d5w04 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

Ghana Risks Losing Its Food Identity Unless Local Beverages Become Mainstream, Entrepreneurs Warn

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Ghana risks losing an important part of its cultural identity if local foods and beverages continue to be treated as occasional products rather than everyday consumer choices, entrepreneurs Emmanuella Safianand Caleb O. Adjah, co-founders of Zaaki Beverages, have cautioned. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, the entrepreneurs said younger generations are becoming increasingly disconnected from traditional Ghanaian beverages, creating both a cultural challenge and a missed economic opportunity. According to Mr. Adjah, many local drinks remain largely absent from everyday consumption despite their long history and nutritional value. He noted that products such as asana, lamugin, and tamarind-based drinks are often only available at events, making them less visible to younger consumers. “Especially for the generation to come, they do not even have an idea of some of these local beverages because they are not really exposed to them,” he said. He argued that Ghana needs to have broader conversations about local foods and beverages throughout the year rather than limiting attention to them during celebrations such as Ghana Month. The entrepreneur expressed concern that many traditional Ghanaian foods and drinks are gradually disappearing from daily life, warning that this trend could weaken cultural identity over time. “Gradually, we are losing our identity as Ghanaians and Africans, so it is one thing we want to channel, that our local beverages and local foods are the best way to go,” Mr. Adjah stated. Beyond preserving culture, he added that increased patronage of local beverages could create opportunities across the agricultural value chain by generating demand for farmers who produce raw materials such as millet and tamarind. Madam Emmanuella Safian traced the inspiration for Zaaki Beverages to her childhood in northern Ghana, where her grandmother regularly prepared traditional drinks for the family. After relocating to Accra and searching for a business idea, she revisited those experiences and identified an opportunity to transform local beverages into commercially viable products. The pair revealed that they spent several years studying ingredients, refining production processes, and collecting consumer feedback before fully entering the market. What began with fewer than 20 bottles distributed among friends has grown into a business producing about 2,000 bottles monthly. The founders attributed part of their growth to consistency and a willingness to listen to customers, stressing that maintaining product quality is essential for long-term success. Madam Emmanuella also encouraged young people interested in entrepreneurship to remain focused and patient, rather than seeking quick results.  “Consistency is the best. Just stay focused and keep pushing. You will get there,” she advised. Both entrepreneurs agreed that local beverages represent more than a business opportunity. They believe the sector can contribute to healthier consumer choices, create jobs across the value chain, and help preserve an important part of Ghana’s cultural heritage for future generations. Watch the full episode here … https://www.youtube.com/live/v-N5zt45b7I?si=NcOFarICZ2rYmBWP 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

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