A total of 280 young people have been equipped with entrepreneurship and leadership skills through the Asor Mentoring Network, enabling them to pursue business opportunities and create sustainable livelihoods.

The Asor Mentoring Network provides young people with access to information, mentorship and opportunities aimed at shifting mindsets, developing skills, unlocking potential, and promoting meaningful careers and entrepreneurship.

Speaking at this year’s Level Up event, General Manager of Channel One and Citi FM, Bernard Koku Avle, said that every problem presents an opportunity for leadership and relevance.

“The problem you see is an indication of the solution you carry; opportunities abound where problems exist. Great entrepreneurs solve problems and are rewarded for it,” he said. “This principle applies not only to starting a business but also within organizations.

For instance, while working at Citi FM, if the challenge is securing sponsorships and I can leverage my networks to close that gap, then I become the solution and that is entrepreneurial. Entrepreneurship is therefore not limited to creating a business; it is also about demonstrating initiative and problem-solving wherever you are.

Even if you work for a water distribution company and notice poor customer service from dispatch riders, proposing a monthly training session in Twi is also a form of leadership and entrepreneurship.”

Level Up is the annual flagship event of the Asor Mentoring Network, designed to inspire, mentor and equip young people with the knowledge, skills and values needed to thrive in leadership, entrepreneurship and personal development.

Convener of the event, Dr. Shalom D. Addo-Danso, underscored the importance of cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset among the youth.

“With the current employment situation in the country, one cannot depend solely on the government for a job. Even those of us who are employed are seeking multiple streams of income. It is therefore important to condition your mind to do something for yourself.

There are many opportunities in entrepreneurship, and my hope is that after this event, you will begin to explore avenues that expand your knowledge and abilities in this regard,” she said.

This year’s Level Up event was held under the theme “Empowering the Youth to Drive Entrepreneurship.”

Rev. Prof. Daniel K. B. Inkoom highlighted that understanding one’s personality type is crucial for informed business decisions, as it helps individuals identify their natural tendencies and work to improve in less developed areas.

“Personality types are just descriptions of what exists, not measures of which is better,” he said. “When we discuss personality types in my training sessions, I emphasize that if someone’s personality makes them less likely to take risks, it does not limit them. Once they understand this tendency, they can intentionally learn how to take risks and grow in those areas.”

The event featured a panel discussion led by experts in youth and business development. Dr. Evans Duah and Ms. Francisca Taylor discussed transitioning from ideas to startups and innovative ways of accessing capital to scale businesses. Mr. David Adade-Boateng spoke on the role of volunteerism in personal and community development, while Mr. Louis Lamis explored creativity and innovation, encouraging young people to turn their ideas into impactful ventures.

Participants said they left the event inspired and equipped with practical strategies.

“This event has been truly inspiring. The mentorship and sessions on entrepreneurship and leadership have given me practical ideas and the confidence to pursue business opportunities and develop my skills,” a participant said.