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Hangout

Scrap Metal Artist Jeffery Yeboah Shares His Journey on Springboard Hangout

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Jeffery Kwabena Yeboah, founder of Kae Kwabena Studios, has shared how he started his journey as a scrap metal artist with no prior knowledge of welding, and no financial support, but with a strong desire to succeed. He was speaking on Springboard Hangout with Lady Comfort Ocran in an episode titled Sparking Conversations with Scrap Metal. Mr. Yeboah recounted how his breakthrough came in 2015 when he decided to create tables using old car tires and jute ropes. According to him, the idea gained media attention and drew interest to his work, although it came with some challenges. “People thought I was just making tables, not art,” he said. “And I’ll blame myself for how I communicated it at the time.” Mr. Yeboah stated that he produced planters despite not having any background in welding. “I didn’t know anything about welding when I was asked to make planters for someone,” he said. “I even told her assistant to find someone else. But when she called me directly, I just said yes.” He  further revealed that his move to Accra as a child came with several challenges, but he remained focused on his education and eventually gained admission into the University of Ghana. “I entered Legon with nothing. I had to hustle. I started decorating rooms using PVC stickers just to survive,” he noted. The creative artist stated that his journey has been shaped by many helping hands, which inspired the name of his brand, Kae Kwabena, which means “remember Kwabena” in Akan. “Each time I say the name, I remember the hands that helped me. It keeps me humble and grateful,” he said. About Springboard HangoutSpringboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centered show hosted by Lady Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences to educate, entertain, and equip the next generation. By Faustina Yeboah

Virtual University

“The Sea Is the Final Receiver of Our Waste,” Says Buz Stop Boys

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2025 MTN Heroes of Change Sustainability and Transformation Award winners, Buz Stop Boys, are urging Ghanaians to rethink how waste is managed in communities, revealing that the ocean often ends up carrying the consequences of poor sanitation habits. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, with Rev. Albert Ocran, founder of the group, Mr. Heneba Kwadwo Sarfo, explained that most of the waste seen at the country’s shores doesn’t come from the beach itself, but from the poor environmental sanitation habits. “Each time I visited the seaside, I saw the same pattern,” he said. “Much of the waste in the ocean comes from outside. The sea ends up receiving what is poorly handled elsewhere.” According to Mr. Kwadwo Sarfo, Buz Stop Boys was founded two years ago and started as a simple idea to clean neglected public spaces like bus stops and inspire mindset change on cleanliness and environmental care. “When I heard the idea, I didn’t think it was crazy. I saw something meaningful, an opportunity to make a difference and also shift how people think about sanitation,” committed member, Mr. James Sarfo, added. The group, which began as a two-man effort, has grown into a nationally recognized campaign for cleaner cities and responsible waste management. Beyond physical clean-ups, the Buz Stop Boys use social media to tell compelling stories that draw attention to sanitation and sustainability issues. “Social media is a powerful tool,” Mr. Kwadwo Sarfo noted. “Instead of only using it for trends, we decided to use it to show people what’s possible, to make cleanliness visible, and to spark a mindset shift.” The team added that public perception is shifting. “People would pass by, smile, and bless us, but few would stop to help.” “We understood that most impactful work doesn’t get much attention at first, and we kept going.” Mr. Heneba Kwadwo Sarfo added that, “It’s about reminding Ghanaians that we all have a part to play in protecting our environment for future generations.” The conversation was part of the Changing Narratives series on Springboard, Your Virtual University, which profiles Ghanaians leading transformational change in various fields. About Springboard, Your Virtual University Springboard, Your Virtual University is a weekly motivational and personal development broadcast hosted by Rev. Albert Ocran. It airs every Sunday at 7 PM online and on Joy FM and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. The ongoing Changing Narratives series highlights Ghanaians reshaping the national story through innovation, leadership, and impact. By Faustina Yeboah

IYD 2025, News

“Don’t Just Be Inspired. ”Act”— Comfort Ocran Challenges Participants at International Youth Day Celebration

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This year’s International Youth Day has been celebrated in Accra with Executive Director of the Springboard Road Show Foundation, Comfort Ocran, reminding young people that the day is more than a date on the calendar but a call to action. Comfort Ocran reflected on the 2025 UN theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” noting that it is a powerful reminder that young people are not only the leaders of tomorrow but the changemakers of today. “The future is here, and the future starts now,” she declared, urging participants to take the global goals and make them real within their own communities. The celebration, held at the Osu Ebenezer Presbyterian Church on the 12th of August, also marked the launch of the Teenpreneurship Bootcamp under the bold theme “Next Is Now.” Organised at no cost to its 300 participants, the program is designed to equip teenagers with the skills, mindset, and confidence to act immediately. By embracing entrepreneurship, innovation, and practical problem-solving today, these young people are not only investing in their own futures but also contributing directly to sustainable development and community transformation. Another highlight of the day was the unveiling of the second edition of impact stories under the Ghana Grows Program, aptly dubbed Rays of Hope. These stories celebrate the resilience and achievements of young women and men transforming agriculture, breaking barriers, and creating local solutions with national and global relevance. Through the Ghana Grows Program, over 448,000 young people have been impacted.  Notably, 76% of participants are young women, and 1.91% are persons with disabilities. 20,000 young people have secured jobs and sustainable livelihoods, while more than 2,400 Youth Ambassadors have been trained to champion agriculture and entrepreneurship nationwide. In addition, the extended Empower 360 component of Ghana Grows has equipped over 1,116 young women with practical skills and provided 156 young participants with startup kits to launch their own businesses. The Ghana Grows Program is being implemented by the Mastercard Foundation in partnership with a consortium led by the Springboard Road Show Foundation. It aims at highlighting the opportunities available in the extended value chain for agriculture, agribusiness and ATVET. Speaking at the program, Mr. Joseph Boateng, Lead, Market to Impact at the Mastercard Foundation, stated, “The SDGs are not distant targets set in boardrooms. They are lived realities in our villages, towns, and cities. As we mark International Youth Day, let us commit to moving from voice to impact, turning ideas into enterprises, passion into policy, and energy into enduring change.” Technical Director of the Springboard Road Show Foundation, Rev. Albert Ocran, also spoke to the “Next Is Now” theme, encouraging participants to take deliberate action. “Inspiration without execution is only a dream. What you do today, the projects you start, the risks you take, and the ideas you pursue will define the world you live in tomorrow,” he said. The event closed with renewed energy, as young people committed to living out the charge of the Executive Director, to turn skills into solutions, relationships into collaborations, and opportunities into lasting change. With passion, purpose, and persistence, they left the celebration ready to ensure that their next step would not just be inspired but action-driven.

Hangout

Springboard Hangout Holds Second Edition of Fireside Reflections in Tamale

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The second edition of Fireside Reflections, a special broadcast under the Springboard Hangout series, was held in Tamale with Comfort Ocran as host. Set in an open-air community setting, the episode brought together a group of energetic young men and women to reflect on their journeys in agriculture, agribusiness, ATVET, and life-changing impact stories through the Ghana Grows program. This edition, which formed part of the ongoing Tamale Series, was built around storytelling, drumming, dancing, and open conversation, all by the fireside. It brought together Ghana Grows Youth Ambassadors, Girls Club members, and other young beneficiaries of the Ghana Grows initiative to share how the program is helping shift their mindset about agriculture and unlocking real opportunities in agribusiness. Ghana Grows is a youth empowerment program by the Mastercard Foundation in partnership with the Springboard Road Show Foundation. It focuses on preparing young Ghanaians for success in agriculture, agribusiness, and Agricultural Technical and Vocational Education and Training (ATVET). Through community engagement and hands-on learning, the program is equipping a new generation to see farming as a business and a viable career path. Participants shared how Ghana Grows has helped them better understand the agricultural value chain and take bold steps, including joining Ghana Grows Empower360, an initiative that focuses on training young women and persons with disabilities in skills like shoemaking, soap production, resin art, and more, with participants receiving starter packs to begin their businesses. Abdul Fatou, who serves as a Ghana Grows Ambassador and works in social media communication, reflected on how the program reshaped his thinking: “After I studied more about the Ghana Grows program, I realized that it’s not just agriculture. Agric is a business. Being a farmer isn’t just about going to the farm. There’s so much you can do. What motivated me most was realizing how many rich and powerful people are actually farmers, even though most youth think farming is only for the poor. As a media person, I decided we need to let the world know the truth about farming and agribusiness. That’s what I’ve been doing through Ghana Grows. I’ve actually started farming myself. The program connected me with others I could share ideas with.” The night ended with cultural performances from the local community, a celebration of identity, purpose, and the bold dreams of Northern Ghana’s rising youth. About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centered show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences to educate, entertain, and equip the next generation.

News, Virtual University

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

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

News

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

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

News

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

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

News

Let’s prioritize maternal care – Naa Ashorkor challenges policymakers

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Actress and Broadcaster Naa Ashorkor Mensah-Doku has called for an extension of the three-month maternity leave granted to mothers. “In my ideal Ghana, maternity leave will be extended beyond three months while paternity leave will also be granted”, she said. Naa Ashorkor was taking her turn on the top ten series on Springboard, your virtual university, Ghana’s foremost developmental broadcast hosted on radio and online by Rev. Albert Ocran. Using her personal experiences, she shared her own struggles as a mother and a young professional, “It took me more than a year to recover physically when I had my first child. The mental adjustment required even more time.” She empathized with young breastfeeding mothers who sometimes have to leave their babies with security personnel and carers at nurseries to be able to make it work on time.  She suggested that organisations could meet young parents halfway in solving this issue, “Nurseries at workplaces must be compulsory, especially for larger organizations”, she proposed. Naa Ashorkor also touched on workplace productivity and challenged employees to contribute their quota to the success of their organisations. She suggested that work-life balance was possible if people focused their attention on what they were doing at any point in time. “We must all be a little more present. Don’t be at work and constantly be on the phone talking about home and vice versa. Don’t come home and spend all your time on PowerPoint presentations. Don’t be absent-minded at church. Enjoy every moment to the full and make your contribution. Springboard, your virtual university airs every Sunday at 7 pm GMT on Joy FM and online and subsequently on Joy Prime television. “My Top Ten” is a popular series on the broadcast that captures the top five lessons or principles in the lives of accomplished people in various fields and their five prescriptions for an ideal Ghana. Listen to the #MyTopTen conversation with Naa Ashorkor on Spotify, Apple podcast, or Google podcast.