FirstBank Ghana has reiterated its commitment to Ghana's youth by sponsoring the 2024 National Youth Conference, which took place at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) from Tuesday, September 3 to Thursday, September 5, 2024.

The event, which attracted over 2,000 young leaders from all over the country, centered around the theme 'Reformed Youth, Reformed Ghana.'

The conference provided a platform for youth across Ghana to come together, discuss pertinent issues, and explore solutions aimed at fostering national development through reform and youth empowerment. The event featured various workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions, allowing participants to engage with experts in different fields.

Speaking at the conference, Mr. Allen Quaye, Head of Retail Banking at FirstBank Ghana, emphasised the pivotal role that youth play in Ghana's future, positioning them as both the current driving force and future leaders of the nation.

“The youth of Ghana are not just the leaders of tomorrow but the driving force behind the transformation of our nation today. Your energy, creativity, and dedication are essential to shaping a brighter future for our country.”

He also outlined FirstBank’s ongoing commitment to youth development, highlighting several initiatives such as internship opportunities and entrepreneurship programs aimed at helping young people realise their potential.

FirstBank’s GHS20,000 donation further underscores the Bank's dedication to supporting youth empowerment initiatives. According to Mr. Quaye, this contribution reflects FirstBank’s belief in the conference's mission and the transformative potential of the Ghanaian youth.

He emphasised, “Our support for this conference is a testament to our belief in the positive change that you, the youth, can bring to our nation. We believe in the power of your ideas and the impact of your actions, and we are proud to stand by you in this endeavour.”

The conference served as a catalyst for empowering the youth, encouraging them to take charge of their own futures and to actively contribute to national reform. Mr. Quaye’s speech echoed this sentiment, noting that reform is not just about change but about creating meaningful, lasting impact. He therefore called on the youth to seize opportunities, challenge the status quo, and build a society where every young person has the chance to thrive.

“Reform is not just about change, it is about meaningful, lasting impact. It is about creating opportunities, challenging the status quo, and building a society where every young person has the chance to thrive,” Mr. Quaye said.

The National Youth Conference offered attendees the opportunity to connect with mentors, learn from successful entrepreneurs, and explore innovative ideas. FirstBank Ghana’s support for the event was instrumental in ensuring the overall success of the programme, further reinforcing the Bank’s commitment to fostering youth development across the country.

FirstBank Ghana is part of the First Bank Group of Nigeria Limited, which is celebrating its 130th anniversary this year. The group operates across several countries, including the UK, DRC, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Gambia, and Senegal.