Start With What You Have: Key Lessons from the GNCCI Junior Chamber Orientation at Takoradi Technical University

On 30th June 2026, our CEO, Erasmus Mensah Ackon, had the privilege of serving as a Guest Speaker at the GNCCI Junior Chamber Orientation held at Takoradi Technical University (TTU), alongside Alberta Brown-Orleans.

The event, organised by Takoradi Technical University in collaboration with the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI), brought together ambitious young people eager to learn about entrepreneurship, leadership, and business development. It was an inspiring gathering focused on equipping students with practical skills and the mindset required to become creators of opportunities rather than seekers of them.

A Message Rooted in Experience

During his presentation, Erasmus shared a simple but powerful message:

“Nobody owes you funding. Start with what you know, what you have, and who you know.”

This statement challenged participants to rethink the common belief that success begins with capital. Instead, he encouraged them to focus on the resources already available to them—their knowledge, skills, networks, and determination.

Drawing from his personal journey, Erasmus reflected on his transition from banking into software development and eventually into building Duapa Werkspace. He explained how every stage of his career provided the foundation for the next, demonstrating that growth is rarely accidental.

Success is not built through luck alone. It is built through consistent learning, strategic action, and leveraging the opportunities that each stage of life presents.

The Urgency of Youth Entrepreneurship

Ghana continues to face significant youth unemployment challenges, with young people representing a substantial proportion of the unemployed population. While many graduates aspire to secure employment after school, there is an increasing need for more young people to explore entrepreneurship as a pathway to creating value and generating jobs.

The message to the students was clear: do not underestimate your ability to start small and build something meaningful. Many successful businesses began with limited resources but were driven by vision, persistence, and a willingness to learn.

Some young people will fill existing jobs. Others will create new ones. The future of Ghana’s economy depends on both, but especially on those willing to step forward and build.

Building the Next Generation of Leaders

Events like the GNCCI Junior Chamber Orientation play a critical role in shaping the next generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders. By connecting students with experienced professionals and industry leaders, these platforms provide practical insights that classrooms alone cannot offer.

The energy, curiosity, and ambition displayed by the students at TTU were a reminder that Ghana’s future is bright. With the right support systems, mentorship, and opportunities, young people can transform challenges into innovative businesses that drive economic growth and social impact.

Looking Ahead

We extend our appreciation to the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI) and Takoradi Technical University for creating this valuable platform for learning and engagement.

The conversations, questions, and ideas shared during the session reinforced an important truth: the next generation of entrepreneurs is already here. What they need most is the confidence to begin.

Start with what you know.
Start with what you have.
Start with who you know.

Most importantly, start.

Together, let’s continue building a future where more young people become innovators, entrepreneurs, and job creators for Ghana and beyond.