Street vendor Sophia Quashigah named valedictorian at Accra Metropolitan University
A street vendor and single mother, Sophia Selali Quashigah, has been named valedictorian of the 2024 graduating class of Accra Metropolitan University (formerly Laweh University College).
Once known for selling fried yam to make ends meet, Sophia’s life took a transformative turn after receiving a scholarship from the Naa Dedei Botchwey (NDB) Foundation, an initiative that supports inclusive education for young women and mothers.
Graduating with First Class Honours in Business Administration and a final Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.73, Sophia earned a standing ovation as she delivered a heartfelt valedictory speech, recounting her journey from hardship to academic triumph.
“Four years ago, I was in a place that tried to break me. I was discouraged from pursuing anything, especially education. But this university became my turning point,” she shared.
She revealed that a friend had forwarded her a flyer about the NDB scholarship opportunity in early 2021, but she initially ignored it, fearing it would impose extra financial pressure.
However, months later, she felt compelled to put fear aside and take a leap of faith.
During her time at the university, Sophia not only excelled academically, but also represented her school in the National Tertiary Business Sense Challenge, a prestigious competition that allowed her to break barriers and challenge herself beyond the classroom.
“At first, I ignored it, fearing it would only lead to personal turmoil. But something shifted in me months later. I pushed fear aside and took the chance, and it changed everything,” she recalled.
The brain behind the scholarship, Naa Dedei Botchwey, winner of the 2020 Ghana’s Most Beautiful pageant, shared her excitement over Sophia’s achievement.
She described how even the smallest spark of mentorship can ignite powerful change, calling Sophia’s success “proof that with the right support, dreams can become reality.”
“When Professor Goski told me Sophia had emerged valedictorian, I was speechless. It felt divine, like God used me, GMB, and the university to create this opportunity. We don’t just mentor; we take action,” Naa said.
Sophia’s inspiring journey stands as a beacon of hope for many and a testament to the power of resilience, education, and timely opportunity.
SP/MA
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