Reflections: Thriving in chaos and having fun while at it.

It’s 10 PM on Christmas Eve, and I’ve hit the backspace button more times than I can count today. I’ve been trying to unpack 2024 into this post you’re reading. Like a beginner, I’m scared I might not do justice to the full story. Then, my eyes catch the sticky note mantra that’s guided me this year: “Do it anyway.”

So, here’s my attempt. Let me tell you how I faced curveballs, embraced a million “No’s,” and still found an immense amount of joy in the journey.

Career Highlights: Building, Partnering, and Growing

Fundraising: Turning “No’s” Into Wins

Fundraising is not for the faint-hearted, and 2024 tested me like never before. The “After careful consideration, we regret to inform you...” emails piled up, but persistence paid off. After countless cold emails, calls, and referrals, we successfully secured funding and sponsorships for the Young and Loud Festival, a celebration of youth creativity and expression in Ho. Huge thanks to The GC Brand and Salaria Eyemed for believing in this vision.

We also embarked on an ambitious journey to raise funds for the Ho Youth Park, a safe space where young people can connect, learn, and thrive. With plans for a skate park, basketball court, soccer pitch, and amphitheatre, this project is about creating opportunities and a safe space to help youth avoid social vices. Early conversations with GHACEM, DUNK Grassroots, Surf Ghana, and Vans ZA have been encouraging.

On a smaller but equally impactful scale, the Skates for Israel campaign raised over GHS 2,000 to buy skateboards and protective gear for young skaters. Watching them skate confidently with safety gear was priceless. Thank you to everyone who contributed!

Partnership Development: Building Bridges That Matter

Through partnerships with the Esports Association and Leti Arts, we hosted the second edition of the Creative Futures Bootcamp, educating young people about opportunities in the gaming industry.

We also partnered with the Mawuvi Foundation, with the support of DUNK grassroots to support young basketball enthusiasts in Hohoe. Additionally, we have started conversations with DUNK to broaden support for basketball across Ghana.

Our commitment to community rebuilding took us to Mepe, devastated by the Akosombo Dam spillage. Witnessing the resilience and determination of the people to rebuild their lives was humbling. We’re now exploring partnerships with the @WHO, FAO, and the Climate Adaptation Fund to support both immediate recovery and long-term resilience in the community.

Communication and Community Engagement: Amplifying Voices

Hosting the Tech, Art, and Soul Podcast this year, in collaboration with Goethe Institut, CW Studios, and the Creative Academy, was a highlight. Through this platform, we amplified stories shaping Africa’s tech and creative ecosystems. Engaging with thought leaders like Kofi Yeboah (Mozilla Foundation), Dede Kumassah (Private Chef), Bright Ackwerh (Artist), and Ewura Adams Karim (Maltiti Foundation) reminded me how innovation and creativity are redefining our industries.

Collaborating with the indefatigable Joana Kwame to curate news for Accra Digital Digest and hosting discussions on Accra Digital Digest Spaces were rewarding experiences. These platforms sparked engaging dialogues around tech startups, policy shifts, and innovation in Ghana.

Events That Brought Joy

From MCing weddings to supporting the STEMforGirls Africa Summit by GirlyTech (led by Faiza Chenti) and hosting the Last Friday Hangout for young professionals in Ho, 2024 was full of moments that reaffirmed my love for community and public speaking.

Skills and Personal Growth:?

• Salesforce Certification: I proudly earned my Salesforce Administrator certification, thanks to the rigorous program at ALX Ghana and the mentorship of Maxwell Tuglo.
• Leadership Development: The McKinsey Forward Program pushed me to think critically and lead authentically, sharpening skills that I’ll carry forward.

The Bigger Picture

2024 wasn’t easy. Between surviving three tyre blowouts while driving between Accra and Ho and navigating a whirlwind of responsibilities, I learned resilience is non-negotiable. Thanks to Brian Dzansi, a mentor whose guidance and encouragement have been instrumental in my personal and professional growth.

To everyone who’s been part of this journey—from colleagues at Node Eight to the guests on our Twitter Spaces and podcast, including Rex Babo, Confidence Blinksen, Richard Brandt and Nana Amoah thank you for your unwavering support and belief.

If 2024 taught me anything, it’s this: With grit, grace, and a little humour, we can do hard things and have fun along the way.

Here’s to thriving in 2025!