The second edition of Ghana Grows’ Empower360 wrapped up on a high note in Accra, with 32 young women and persons with disabilities receiving fully stocked starter packs to kickstart their careers in creative entrepreneurship.

Empower360 is a flagship intervention of the Ghana Grows Program, an initiative of the Mastercard Foundation in partnership with the Springboard Road Show Foundation. It targets young people aged 15 to 35 and combines practical trade skills with deep personal and business development training to prepare participants to thrive in the real world.

These carefully curated kits, designed for makeup artistry, resin crafts, or soap production, symbolized more than tools. They were a real investment in the future of participants who had undergone an intensive 5-day training programme.

Each day was packed with hands-on sessions guided by expert trainers and seasoned industry professionals. Business development modules delivered by Corporate Secretarial and Training Services (CSTS) covered the essentials: entrepreneurship, business structure, sustainability, record-keeping, and customer service.

The Ghana Psychological Association (GPA) led sessions on mental health, stress management, and emotional resilience, ensuring a well-rounded support system for all participants.

A highlight for many was the interactive mentorship session with Rev. Albert and Comfort Ocran, who shared real-life wisdom on workplace safety, team-building, and the value of ethical leadership.

Speaking in an interview, Rev. Albert Ocran, Technical Director of Springboard Road Show Foundation, said, “What we are doing here is not just about teaching skills; it's about igniting hope and confidence in these remarkable young people. When you give someone the right tools, the right mindset, and the right support, you’re not just helping them build a business, you are helping them to live sustainable lives.”

Ghana Grows continues to build Ghana’s future by connecting participants with mentors, Youth-Led Organizations (YLOs), and long-term support systems. With their starter packs in hand and confidence in their skills, these 32 participants are now equipped not just to start earning, but to build sustainable livelihoods that could impact generations.

One participant, Haggai Sackey, the youngest participant who received a starter pack in soap making, shared her excitement: “This training changed my life. I came here unsure of myself, but I’m leaving with skills, confidence, and a clear plan. With the kits I’ve received, I can start my own small business from home and eventually train others in my community.”

About Ghana Grows

The Ghana Grows programme is an initiative of the Mastercard Foundation, led by the Springboard Road Show Foundation. Lyme Haus serves as a sub-implementing partner, alongside key technical collaborators, including, Axis Human Capital, Meraki Arts Africa, Light for the World, Ghana Psychological Association (GPA), Young & Vibe, Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters (FAGE), Ghana National Tailors and Dressmakers Association (GNTDA), Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Ghana Hairdressers and Beauticians Association (GHABA).