Recently, Kezia Asiedua Sanie from Ghana has been named a top 10 finalist for the Chegg Global Student Prize 2023, a $100,000 award to be given to one exceptional student that has made a real impact on learning, the lives of their peers and on society beyond.
Kezia Sanie, a 23-year-old, law student was selected from nearly 4,000 applications from 122 countries.
In this interview, Raphael Obonyo talks with her about this moment of her life as well as future plans, and how she feels about being named among the finalists.
Excerpts:
You are not only representing Ghana, you represent Africa. How does that make you feel?
Wow, the feeling is indescribable. Being just one step away from the Global Student Prize of $100k is an incredible mix of excitement, gratitude, and anticipation. It’s a recognition of the hard work and dedication that has gone into my humanitarian journey and my commitment to making a positive impact on the world through my Non Ggovernmental Organisation (NGO) known as For The Future Ghana. This could be our first major financial breakthrough since the start of the organization. Thus far, we have relied heavily on our own contributions, support from family and friends and crowdfunding. But beyond the financial aspect, it’s a platform to amplify the causes and issues that matter to me and to inspire other young changemakers. It’s a reminder that every effort to create positive change is worthwhile and that our voices can indeed shape a better future. I’m grateful for the opportunity and hoping and praying that I win the prize. I am ready to make the most of it. Ultimately, it’s about continuing the mission to drive positive change in the world, and the journey itself has been incredibly rewarding.
For a lot of people, at 23 is a time when they are getting started, and making plans. But you have an organization, that is making a difference in your community. Did you always want to start a charity?
Come to think of it, since my childhood, I always used to talk about this. My friends from primary school, remind me, now, that I used to talk about helping others, helping people. I think it has always been part of me, it is just manifesting itself in different ways, big and small.
Tell us a bit about yourself?
I grew up in what can be described as a ‘middle class’ family. I’m the first born in a family of five children. My parents gave us the best education. We were not staying in the slums, but slums were around us, and that imprinted in our minds that there were some people who were going through hardships, and we needed to do something. In school, I was part of debate clubs, and enjoyed reading, that is how pursuing a career in law, came about. Also, my passion for charity and advocacy drove me to study law.
What sparked your interest?
The idea for my project, For The Future Ghana (FTF), was sparked by my deep concern for the plight of underprivileged children in my community. At the age of 16, I witnessed children begging on the streets instead of being in school, and this stirred a strong desire in me to make a positive change. I wanted to provide these children with access to quality education and the support they needed to break free from the cycle of poverty. The journey began with a simple vision: to create a platform that would give underprivileged children the opportunity to discover their true potential and lead successful lives. I realized that education was the key to unlocking this potential. FTF was founded with the aim of providing these children with not just education, but also mentorship, life skills, and a safe environment to thrive. Growing up, I was fortunate to have a supportive family and access to education, which instilled in me the importance of giving back to the community. Witnessing the struggles of less privileged children motivated me to channel my passion into action. I wanted to create an organization that would address the pressing issues of child poverty, lack of education, and child labor head-on. FTF started with a few passionate individuals who shared my vision, and together, we began to make a difference. Our early efforts focused on providing basic resources and educational support to a handful of children. As we saw the impact of our work on their lives, we became even more committed to expanding our reach and making a lasting change. Setting up FTF was a response to an urgent need in my community. It was driven by a strong sense of empathy, a desire to contribute, and a belief that every child deserves a chance to build a better future. Our goal is not only to educate children but to empower them to become agents of change in their own lives and communities.
You are championing education matters . Tell us more about your initiatives and vision
FTF is dedicated to empowering underprivileged children in Ghana by providing them with access to quality education, health resources, and life skills training. Our team is comprised of passionate individuals who share a common goal of making a meaningful impact. Our organization operates three main projects concurrently: Student Training and Education Project (STEP): Through this initiative, we offer holistic support to vulnerable children, including after-school tutoring, workshops, mentorship, and fun activities. We currently support 13 children, ensuring their well-being and educational success. SmartStart Project: This project focuses on preparing students for the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), a critical milestone in Ghana’s education system. We provide targeted lessons, resources, and mentorship to ensure their success. ShareAid: Under this project, we partner with other NGOs and corporate entities to distribute educational materials and relief items to children living in deprived communities and remote areas. Multipurpose Resource Centre: Our vision is to establish an eco-friendly resource center that serves as a safe haven for underprivileged children. This center will offer educational programs, health services, vocational training, and a supportive environment. Our ultimate aim is to break the cycle of poverty and empower children to become leaders in their communities. Over the years, FTF has impacted over 3,000 children, providing them with hope, opportunities, and skills. We’ve witnessed improved academic performance, increased confidence, and a sense of purpose among our beneficiaries. Our work has contributed to reducing child labor, promoting gender equality, and enhancing the overall well-being of these children. FTF’s impact is tangible, with higher enrollment rates in schools, increased access to healthcare, and improved academic outcomes. Our numbers tell a compelling story: more children attending school, fewer children engaged in labor, and a growing community of empowered young minds ready to shape a brighter future.
Your initiative is about education, is this something you find important?
Education empowers individuals by providing knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities. It equips people to make informed decisions about their lives and future. Economic Opportunities: Education opens doors to better job opportunities and career advancement. It’s often linked to higher earning potential and economic stability. Personal Growth: Education fosters personal growth and development. It helps individuals discover their interests, passions, and potential, leading to a more fulfilling life. Global Citizenship: Education promotes global awareness and understanding. It encourages tolerance, empathy, and the ability to engage with diverse cultures and perspectives. Problem-Solving: Education equips individuals with problem-solving and critical thinking skills. It enables them to address challenges and contribute to societal progress. Health and Well-being: Education is closely linked to better health outcomes. It promotes healthy lifestyles and access to healthcare information. Reduced Inequality: Education can be a powerful tool for reducing social and economic inequalities. It provides opportunities for marginalized and disadvantaged individuals. Innovation and Progress: Education fuels innovation and progress. It’s the foundation for scientific discoveries, technological advancements, and social change. Community Development: Educated individuals often play active roles in their communities. They can lead initiatives, advocate for positive change, and contribute to community development. Life Skills: Education imparts essential life skills such as communication, problem-solving, and adaptability, which are valuable in all aspects of life. In summary, education is not only about acquiring knowledge but also about personal development, social progress, and the betterment of society as a whole. It is a fundamental human right and a catalyst for positive change.
What do you think about young people?
Young people possess the creativity, passion, energy and fresh perspectives needed to drive innovative solutions and catalyze positive change in the face of complex global challenges and we should be given the chance to do so.
8. And what is your message to Africa’s youth?
If you want to make a difference, just start. Start with whatever you have. I started with the little that we had. The power is in getting started. Just start!
We started this conversation, talking about how yourself, your drive. And you acknowledge you are passionate about make a difference. Do you like your life mission?
My mission in life is to be a catalyst for positive change, particularly in the lives of underprivileged children and communities. I am driven by a deep-seated passion to uplift and empower those who are often marginalized, providing them with access to quality education, healthcare, and opportunities for personal growth. Through my work with For The Future Ghana, I strive to create a lasting impact by fostering a sense of hope, inspiring dreams, and equipping young individuals with the tools they need to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. My mission extends beyond borders as I aim to collaborate with like-minded individuals and organizations to address global issues like child poverty, education inequality, and social injustice. Ultimately, I am committed to leaving a legacy of positive change, one that empowers the next generation to create a more inclusive and equitable world.
And that is how you want to be remembered?
Yes, I want to be remembered for being destiny helper – someone who cared and did something about and for others. I want to be a beacon of hope, and a catalyst for change.
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