In the first week of February, EduSpots hosted a transformative Academy that brought EduSpots’ new cohort of peer mentors together.
The sessions covered essential topics such as time management, team building, digital tools, and the use of artificial intelligence, all expertly facilitated by our dedicated staff team.
Lawrence, Head of Programme (Research and Education), opened the sessions with a clear objective: to foster professional growth, leadership development, mentorship, and knowledge-sharing. He set the tone by emphasizing that the Inspire Mentoring Programme is “a programme, not a one-time thing,” highlighting its ongoing commitment to developing the mentors.
EduSpots Inspire Mentoring Programme is one of EduSpots leadership programmes designed to equip dedicated Catalysts as peer mentors by enhancing their professional, educational, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills. It creates pathways for them to transition into EduSpots’ staff roles or other NGO positions while strengthening their impact within their Spots.
Reflections from Our Peer Mentors
Antwi Kofi – Peer Mentor for Catalyse Leadership Programme
As a professional teacher at Bono Manso and a former participant of the Catalyse Leadership Programme, I found the workshop to be highly effective and enriching. The session on time management was particularly beneficial, helping me learn to prioritize tasks, avoid procrastination, and optimize productivity.
The teamwork exercises emphasized collaboration and peer-to-peer problem-solving, reinforcing my confidence as a peer mentor. The AI segment was especially insightful, introducing me to the practical applications of artificial intelligence in education, data analysis, and decision-making.
John Kofi Nuvormawor – Peer Mentor for the Catalyst Community
Traveling to Elmina for the training program filled me with excitement. I looked forward to reconnecting with staff and Catalysts from different parts of the network. As I reflected on my journey, I kept asking myself: What makes a great mentor? How can I become one, and how can I be truly effective?
Some key takeaways from the workshop included:
- Professionalism – understanding what it means to be a professional in every aspect of my work.
- Time Management – practical strategies to enhance productivity.
- Effective Communication – recognizing that clear needs lead to clear solutions.
- Career Planning – understanding value propositions, crafting CVs, and avoiding common mistakes.
- Digital Engagement – exploring AI tools and their applications in education and leadership.
One of the most memorable moments was the opportunity to interview Professor Elsie Kaufmann— our esteemed Patron and a leading figure in STEM. Speaking with such an esteemed academic was an incredible experience that left a lasting impression on me.
The team-building activities added a fun and engaging element to the workshop. A highlight was the volleyball match between the “Police Team” and the “Soldiers Team,” with Gifty Abudu, Peer Mentor for Communications, serving as the official referee. Her animated officiating style, complete with exaggerated walks to check whether the ball was “in, out, or on the line,” had everyone laughing.
My one-on-one session with my line manager, Akorfa, was both insightful and inspiring. She encouraged me to believe in my potential, not just as a teacher but also in my entrepreneurial aspirations. Her guidance made me realize that I am capable of achieving great things in my business and professional life.
A huge thank you to our CEO, Cat Davison, the entire staff, and my fellow peer mentors for making our stay in Elmina both impactful and enjoyable. The EduSpots network continues to inspire and equip us with the skills needed to create meaningful change.
Conclusion
Through interactive exercises and group discussions, this Peer Mentor Academy has equipped Catalysts to enhance their personal and professional skills effectively. They leave with renewed confidence, creativity, and a deeper sense of collaboration, ready to make a greater impact within the EduSpots network and beyond.