Accra, May 19, GNA –Empower360, an intervention of the Ghana Grow Programme, has supported 32 young women and persons with disabilities with fully stocked starter packs to kickstart their careers in creative entrepreneurship.
These carefully curated kits, designed for makeup artistry, resin crafts, or soap production, symbolized more than tools.
The initiative of the Mastercard Foundation in partnership with the Springboard Road Show Foundation targeted young people aged 15 to 35 and combines practical trade skills with deep personal and business development training to prepare participants to thrive in the real world.
Mrs Comfort Ocran, the Executive Director, the Springboard Road Show Foundation, said there was real investment in the future of participants who had undergone an intensive five-day training programme.
She said the programme, in its second phase, had each day packed with hands-on sessions guided by expert trainers and seasoned industry professionals.
She said they had business development modules delivered by Corporate Secretarial and Training Services (CSTS), which covered the essentials like entrepreneurship, business structure, sustainability, record-keeping, and customer service.
Mrs Ocran said the Ghana Psychological Association (GPA) led sessions on mental health, stress management, and emotional resilience, ensuring a well-rounded support system for all participants.
Mr Albert Ocran, the Technical Director of Springboard Road Show Foundation, had an interactive mentorship session with the participants, where he shared real-life wisdom on workplace safety, team building, and the value of ethical leadership.
He said, “What we are doing here is not just about teaching skills; it is about igniting hope and confidence in these remarkable young people.”
“When you give someone the right tools, the right mindset, and the right support, you’re not just helping them build a business, you are helping them to live sustainable lives,” he added.
He said Ghana Grows continued to build Ghana’s future by connecting participants with mentors, Youth-Led Organizations (YLOs), and long-term support systems.
“With their starter packs in hand and confidence in their skills, these 32 participants are now equipped not just to start earning, but to build sustainable livelihoods that could impact generations,” he said.
Miss Haggai Sackey, the youngest participant, who received a starter pack in soap making said “This training changed my life. I came here unsure of myself, but I’m leaving with skills, confidence, and a clear plan. With the kits I’ve received, I can start my own small business from home and eventually train others in my community.”
GNA
Edited by Christian Akorlie