Turning 40: A Moment of Reflection and Gratitude

Tomorrow, I turn 40. This birthday feels different—not just a marker of age but a moment of true reflection. It’s a time to look back on the journey, the ups and downs, and everything in between.

Early Aspirations and Realizations

Turning 40 has a certain gravity to it. I remember watching my mother celebrate this same milestone surrounded by friends and family, marking it as a significant chapter in her life. That image left a lasting imprint on my young mind, painting ‘40’ as a beacon of maturity and achievement. As a child, I dreamt of emulating my father’s wisdom and presence. He was older when he had me, and while I cherished his wisdom, I also yearned to be the energetic father participating actively in my children’s lives. I made a commitment to myself that I would find success at work, and be present and engaged at home by the time I turned 40.

Reflecting on my journey, from the ambitious optimism of my youth to the more measured, thoughtful approach I’ve embraced as I’ve matured, each year has been a stepping stone in understanding my true purpose. My vision has always been to blend personal growth with meaningful impact, using business as a force for good to enhance community well-being and health. These experiences have not only shaped my professional identity but have deeply influenced my personal life and values.

Navigating Challenges and Building on a Legacy

My 30s have been defined by my experiences leading Nyaho Medical Centre . I moved back to Ghana with a mission to transform healthcare and a profound commitment to the values we hold dear at Nyaho. My role as CEO and then Chief Transformation Officer meant more to me than a title. This role challenged me in many ways especially in navigating our organization through rapid growth, the COVID pandemic and Ghana’s economic trials, all while staying true to our mission of providing sustainable, high-quality healthcare.

The journey has not been without its trials. The decisions made, often under the weight of immense responsibility, tested my resolve and forced me to confront my limitations and vulnerabilities. Sometimes, the person reflected back at me in the mirror, was not someone I recognised or desired to be. However, these moments of trial have been pivotal, each one a narrative of resilience and determination, teaching me the value of steadfastness in the face of adversity.

Personal Reflections and Family Influence

Personally, this birthday feels like an introspective pause. I have had to come to terms with my disappointment and pain. I see the cost of my decisions on my family and those around me. Yet still, my family has been my anchor through these turbulent times. My wife, who has been my partner since our days in Liverpool 12 years ago to Accra, has been a constant source of support, wisdom and love. Our return to the UK last year, balancing virtual meetings, frequent travel and working in Ghana, has only been possible because of her strength and partnership. My children inspire me daily and fill me with so much joy; to be able to witness their growth and to walk life with them, is my greatest delight. In them, I see the future I am striving to shape—a future where they, too, can live a life of purpose with integrity and compassion.

I’ve learned that leadership isn’t just about making decisions or meeting goals; it’s about the people you touch along the way. It’s about building relationships, facing hardships, and finding joy in the journey. My colleagues, my family, and my friends—they’re the ones who make this journey worthwhile.

This birthday, I embrace humility and gratitude more deeply than ever. I am grateful for my mother, who taught me to lead with courage and integrity; and my siblings, Vako Ferguson and Janis McKenna MBA GAICD with whom I’ve strengthened ties through our family business; I have such a deep admiration and respect for them. I am thankful for my team at Nyaho, whose dedication shapes the leader I am. Their commitment and trust in me is undeserved but very much appreciated, and I am continually inspired to honour them in return. I am so thankful for my YPO forum, who have walked with me every step of the way and who have offered me support and guidance at each turn. Finally, my faith in Jesus has been an anchor to my soul, firm and secure; I am grateful to my church, both in Ghana and the UK, who nourish my spirit and resolve, giving me hope for the future.

Looking Ahead with Gratitude and Hope

So as I step into my 40s, I do so with a heart full of gratitude. I’m thankful for every experience that has brought me to this point and for every person who has been part of my story. I’m excited to see what the future holds and to continue working towards a world where everyone can achieve their best health and potential.

Here’s to a new decade of life, filled with hope, hard work, and heart. Let’s keep pushing forward, not just to meet our goals but to make a meaningful difference.

#Leadership #ReflectionsAt40 #Authenticity #PurposeDrivenLife #HealthcareLeadership