Seidu Agongo urges youth to combine talent with hard work as 10,000 sewing machine initiative begins

Businessman and philanthropist Alhaji Seidu Agongo has urged young Ghanaians to pursue their talents with dedication and hard work, stressing that success is achievable regardless of one’s background.

He made the call during the presentation of the first batch of sewing machines under his initiative to distribute 10,000 machines to vulnerable women and young people across the country.

The programme, being implemented in partnership with the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), aims to equip beneficiaries with employable skills and the tools needed to establish or expand tailoring and dressmaking businesses.

More than 800 sewing machines were distributed during the first phase, with subsequent distributions expected to take place in phases.

Mr Agongo said Ghana had many talented young people whose potential could be realised if they received the necessary support and resources to develop their abilities.

“You should not be shy about your talents, no. Once it is a genuine talent, pursue it and commit your energy, your heart and your time to them,” he said.

“Breakthroughs are not miracles you only see in movies or read about in books. They are real, but they must be backed by hard work, commitment and a goal.”

He observed that although many young Ghanaians had the creativity and skills to compete internationally, limited access to opportunities and resources often prevented them from reaching their full potential.

He said the initiative was part of his commitment to supporting vulnerable groups and creating opportunities for people to become financially independent.

The founder of the now-collapsed Heritage Bank Limited urged beneficiaries to make effective use of the machines to improve their livelihoods and create opportunities for others in their communities.

“We all need kindness. Whatever your situation, I will say don’t despair. I want to help everyone as much as possible. I want to live by people’s happiness,” he said.

“There is room for everyone if we genuinely support each other. I have always believed in sharing, supporting and being there for everyone whenever I can.”

Mr Agongo expressed hope that the beneficiaries would use the equipment productively, build sustainable livelihoods and extend support to others as their businesses grow.

“At the end, we will be better and God and Ghana will be the winner,” he added.

The initiative forms part of a series of interventions by the businessman to support women, young people and vulnerable groups through skills training, education, entrepreneurship and humanitarian activities.

Beneficiaries welcomed the donation, saying the sewing machines would help them establish small businesses, generate sustainable incomes and reduce their dependence on others.

Interested applicants have been asked to complete a form available on Mr Agongo’s social media platforms for consideration under the programme.

The nationwide distribution exercise is expected to continue in phases until all 10,000 sewing machines have been distributed.

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