Barcamp Sunyani empowers over 300 young people based in around Sunyani with mentorship and action
Barcamp Sunyani 2024 empowered over 300 young people from the Bono region in various sessions, receiving valuable mentorship from industry professionals. This was on June 8th, 2024 at the Sunyani Technical University Auditorium, organized by the GhanaThink Foundation as part of the Barcamp Ghana program. Barcamp Sunyani 2024 focused on the theme “Culture | Finance | Quality.” The event offered a unique platform for learning, sharing, networking, and fostering a spirit of entrepreneurship. Rukaya Sukah was the first female coordinator for a new Barcamp in Ghana – Barcamp Wa 2015. She stated: “Barcamp Sunyani 2024 was massive, it exceeded my expectations, the quality of mentors was top notch, the participants were active and fully participated in the break-out sessions as well. I am so glad a lot of the youth in Sunyani participated in this life changing experience”.
This was a free networking forum thanks to our partners: Clean Air Fund, Hollard Insurance, Sunyani Technical University SRC, Grassroot Hub, WAN-Hive Ghana, PPAG, Frana Media, Greenleaf Eatery, Greena 95.9 FM, AMEND Rice, Baobab Entrepreneur, etc. Barcamp Sunyani 2024 was not just about knowledge sharing – it also emphasized environmental action. Over 500 teak seedlings were distributed to participants, encouraging them to plant trees within their communities and contribute to cleaner air – #CleanAirGhana. This initiative demonstrates Barcamp Sunyani’s commitment to fostering a culture of sustainability and positive environmental impact.
The program kicked off with a speed mentorship where participants connected with each other and mentors during a networking session. The room was filled with laughter, exchange of contacts, and newfound friendships. Speed Networking sessions facilitated quick introductions with mentors, fellow participants, and the GhanaThink team. In-depth mentorship opportunities were available through dedicated Speed Mentoring sessions. Here, participants received personalized guidance from experts across diverse fields.
Barcamp Sunyani 2024 included a Konnect Kouch session featuring Ranti Adjaku – CEO, Golden Intellectual School and Kobby Amoa-Mensah – the CEO- Optimum Shelter, Founder- AMEND Foundation, Politician- 2020 NPP PC Asunafo South. There were a lot of insightful experiences shared by two seasoned experts, offering valuable knowledge to aspiring entrepreneurs and changemakers. Their words resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom faced similar challenges were inspired and challenged themselves to taking such paths.
According to Nasaara Elijah Ayeebo, the #bcsyi logistics lead: “GhanaThink Foundation’s Barcamps have proven to be a resounding success, inspiring a new generation of leaders in Sunyani and Ghana at large. As the Barcamp Sunyani participants departed, they carried with them the knowledge, skills, and connections to achieve their dreams. The program left a lasting impact, igniting a spark that would continue to illuminate their paths long after the event. It is igniting dreams”.
The breakout sessions sparked discussions on a range of pressing issues and relevant topics, including: #CleanAirGhana – Encouraging action for a healthier environment by Clean Air Fund, Sexual Health for Quality Life – A help you can trust (emphasizing open communication and access to reliable reproductive and sexual health resources) by the Planned Parenthood Association of Ghana, User Experience and Customer Success – Strategies for building successful businesses by Grassroots Hub, Creating a Unique Brand for Sustainable Development – Aligning brand identity with environmental responsibility by WAN-Hive Ghana, Insurance and Investments: Equipping young people with financial literacy by Hollard Insurance. They shared practical advice on career growth, entrepreneurship, and building professional skills.
Owura Charles, the #bcsyi marketing lead stated: “Barcamp Sunyani 2024 undoubtedly served as a catalyst for youth empowerment and positive change within the Bono region. By equipping participants with knowledge, mentorship, and a strong network, the event has paved the way for a brighter future”. The GhanaThink Foundation’s Konnect groups provide a space for participants to build lasting connections beyond the event. Stay tuned via the #bcsyi hashtag. Stay tuned via our social media on Twitter | Facebook. Join us to move the Bono Region and Ghana forward.
