IWD2026

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

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‘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, 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.