“Change does not always begin with grand resources or loud recognition. Sometimes, it starts with one teacher who chooses to act, one community that chooses to believe, and one learning space that grows into a catalyst for transformation.”

John’s journey as an EduSpots Catalyst is rooted in a deep belief that education remains one of the most powerful tools for breaking cycles of inequality. A General Science teacher at Zoin College in Anloga, John’s passion for teaching was shaped early in life by witnessing the visible gap between the rich and the poor in his community. For him, the classroom is not just a place of instruction; it is a space of possibility, and teachers are key drivers of social change.

“Education is one thing that can alleviate poverty, and a teacher is the right person to give learners the education they deserve.”

Motivated by a desire to extend learning beyond the classroom, John founded the Agbledomi Spot in collaboration with fellow teachers and community members. His vision was to make reading a habit among learners and, in doing so, strengthen literacy skills that are foundational to lifelong learning. Through the Spot, John actively supports EduSpots’ Ignite Equity and KSS strands, using the space as a hub for inclusive learning and community engagement.

Beyond literacy, the Agbledomi Spot has become a safe and purposeful environment to address pressing local challenges. One of John’s key focuses has been supporting female learners to respond to the high rates of teenage pregnancy within the circuit. By creating opportunities for dialogue, learning, and mentorship, the Spot is helping learners make informed decisions about their futures.

John places a high value on personal well-being, recognising that a healthy mind and body are essential for effective teaching and leadership. He ensures he gets seven hours of sleep each night, maintains regular exercise through gym visits or home workouts, and uses music to relax and recharge. This commitment to balance helps him stay focused, energised, and ready to support learners and colleagues.

“I want to be remembered for my patience, tolerance, and willingness to keep learning so I can respond to the needs of my community.”

John describes himself as patient, tolerant, and always willing to learn, qualities that define both his teaching and leadership. He is inspired by Pastor Mensa Otabil’s teachings on generational thinking, contentment, and purposeful growth. These values have shaped John’s approach to community work: remain grounded in the present while intentionally building for the future.

In 2025, John was recognised as Peer Mentor of the Year, a milestone he describes as transformative. The Peer Mentor training in Elmina marked a turning point, particularly the session on Generative AI and time management. A quote from the AI training, “AI will not replace humans, but humans with AI will replace humans without AI”, sparked John’s commitment “That statement changed how I see my work and motivated me to start using AI to optimise what I do.” to learning how technology can optimise teaching and community work.

Since then, John has actively integrated digital tools into his practice. He currently teaches learners using Google Meet and supports colleagues to do the same, crediting EduSpots for building his confidence and skills in digital communication, professional email use, and effective time management.

“I was focused on serving my community, not winning an award. Being recognised was a complete surprise.”

John’s recognition as EduSpots Catalyst of the Year 2025 came as a surprise. His focus throughout the year was not on awards, but on completing the Peer Mentorship Programme with distinction and supporting learners in his community to improve their literacy and digital skills. The award, he says, was both humbling and motivating.

This recognition has strengthened his resolve to serve further. Inspired by the trust placed in him, John has applied for a position on the Catalyst Committee, where he hopes to represent fellow Catalysts, amplify their voices, and support them to lead meaningful change in their communities.

“My vision is to nurture learners today so they become the Catalysts who will continue this work tomorrow.”

John’s vision for the Agbledomi Spot is to work with fellow Catalysts to nurture today’s learners into tomorrow’s Catalysts, young people who will continue the work of community-led change. Sustainability is a key priority, and John is committed to working with community members to develop local strategies that will keep the Spot active and relevant for years to come.

He is also intentional about supporting fellow Catalysts in his community, offering guidance and encouragement to help them perform at their best. At the same time, John is realistic about the challenges the Spot faces, including the transfer of teachers out of communities and the gradual loss of motivation among some Catalysts. Addressing these challenges, he believes, will require collective responsibility, peer support, and strong community ownership.

“I envision EduSpots reaching 100 Spots, with communities sustaining what they lead.”

Looking to the future, John envisions EduSpots growing to 100 Spots, with the existing 50 deeply rooted and sustained by their communities. In this vision, EduSpots would continue to provide focused support to new Spots while strengthening the foundations of those already established.

John’s story reflects what it means to be an EduSpots Catalyst: grounded in community, committed to learning, and driven by purpose rather than recognition. His journey is a reminder that when educators are empowered with the right skills, tools, and support, they do far more than teach; they help communities imagine and build a better future.