Speaking engagement at St. Augustine's College - Oct. 2023

Journey Back to St. Augustine's College: A Homecoming to Remember.🎓🎓🎓
On the 14th of October 2023, I was truly blessed with the incredible opportunity to revisit my cherished alma mater, the prestigious St. Augustine's College, nestled in the heart of Cape Coast, Ghana. The anticipation was overwhelming as I looked forward to engaging with the vibrant Year 2 student body, a collective of about 1200 young minds. I arrived at the school a full two hours before the scheduled event, a choice that would turn out to be an invaluable one, as it allowed me to reconnect with the place that had played a monumental role in shaping the person I've become.
A staggering 33 years had passed since my graduation, and this was my very first homecoming. As I strolled through the familiar corridors of Glenn House, the rush of nostalgia enveloped me. It was within these hallowed walls that I had once called home. While my old dwelling, Dorm C, had now transformed into a storage area, the school's dining area remained exactly as I remembered - vast, pristine, and filled with echoes of shared laughter and camaraderie.
The school's sports park, a hub of youthful energy, had retained its charm, with only a few new structures bearing witness to the passage of time. The students, clad in their classic white shirts and khaki pants, were hard at work, diligently tending to their dormitories, school trunks, and cherished chop boxes.
As the clock inched toward 10 am, the students gathered at the Assembly hall in eager anticipation of the event. During the brief wait for them to settle in, I took a serene walk to the nearby beach, a mere minute's stroll away. The beach, with its pristine sands, calm waves, and beckoning serenity, was a testament to the timeless beauty of nature. Seven local fishermen toiled on the shore, rhythmically pulling in their net in a harmonious ballet of strength and unity. I couldn't resist joining them in their efforts, and as the rope bit into my hands, it made me contemplate the possibility of mechanization, yet their teamwork was inspiring.
The event kicked off with a warm introduction by the Senior House Master, Manfred, as I stood before the expectant students. I was there as part of the "Success In Motion Bike Challenge" speeches, dedicated to raising awareness about mental health and inspiring the public to reach their potential. Drawing from my own experiences as a student many years ago, I openly shared my regrets and the life lessons I had gathered along the way.
I encouraged the students to prioritize their physical and mental health, nurturing their spirituality and emotional well-being. I emphasized the significance of daily routines, starting with the simple act of making their beds, instilling the habit-forming discipline they would need in the future. I urged them to shed emotional baggage, forgive, love, and support one another, underscoring the importance of effective communication.
I shared the power of reading, not only textbooks but also fiction and non-fiction books, as they hold the key to personal growth and development. The school's motto, "Omnia Vincit Labor," which translates to "Perseverance Conquers All," served as my guiding light in academics, entrepreneurship, and adventurous pursuits, including summiting Mount Kilimanjaro in September 2022. I encouraged them to aim high, to aspire to their own "Mount Everest" and embrace the pursuit of happiness and inner peace while remaining steadfast in their service to humanity.
The students actively engaged with me during the question-and-answer session, posing thoughtful and relevant inquiries that left a lasting impression. This day was, without a doubt, one of the most treasured moments of my life. Sharing my experiences and life lessons with others, particularly the future leaders of our world, gave profound meaning to my existence.
My teammate, Abe, also had an important message to share with the students. She passionately emphasized the significance of embracing their unique qualities and not succumbing to the pressure of pretending to be someone they are not. Abe encouraged them to wholeheartedly embrace their individuality, recognizing that their true strength and potential lie in their authenticity. She placed great importance on the value of being open and willing to share their feelings, reminding the students that seeking help whenever they felt the need is a powerful demonstration of courage and self-awareness. This resonated deeply with the students, reinforcing the idea that they need not walk their paths alone and that support and understanding are always available to them.
I want to take this moment to express my heartfelt appreciation to the headmaster Mr. Henry Arthur-Gyan and senior house master - Manfred, who made this event possible, the enthusiastic students who attended, and the media presence that amplified our message.