“Volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy. You vote in elections once a year, but when you volunteer, you vote every day about the kind of community you want to live in”.
~Author Unknown
My grandmother always said to me that in our lives, some of the people we meet would be like salt in meals – giving taste and flavour to our purpose and being the one important ingredient that combines all ingredients and gives it a unique taste. Gentle readers, believe me when I say that this saying made more sense to me when I sat down with our Volunteers of the month (May) and saw the impact of their contributions to their Spots. They are indeed like salt – removing the tastelessness of life and giving their Spots and EduSpots at large so much flavour.
Our search for Volunteers of the month (May) took us to Akumadan and Gomoa Manso and alas! we found that which we sought. Ladies and gentlemen, here is story of two gentlemen who are voting every day about the kind of community they want to live in.
Sit back, relax and feast your eyes on this good read.
Welcome gentlemen and thank you for making the time for this interview.
1. Could you tell us your full names?
Jerry: I’m Jerry Paa Ekow Nyankson.
Joshua : and I am Agyemang Joshua.
2. Nice. Tell us a little about your background. How did you grow up? and what was your experience with education?
Joshua: I’m from Akumadan and stay at Akumadan Georgia site. I started my schooling at Jesus blood International, Akumadan Caana in the Ashanti region of Ghana. I started KG 1 in the year 2004. My father passed away when I was nine months, so I taken care of by my mum. Unfortunately, my mum also passed away when I was six years old, and my Grandmother took me to Kumasi-Atimatim new site to continue my education, When she also passed away some years later, I came back to Akumadan and stayed with my two elder brothers. I still reside with them now. I am also a senior high school graduate.
Jerry: I was born and raised in Gomoa Osamkrom, a small town along the Winneba- Agona Swedru road. I started my basic school education at Master Sam Preparatory School at Gomoa Osamkrom but was later relocated to Accra at the age of 8 to further my basic school education at Bethel C.D Preparatory School at Sowutuom. While continuing my studies at Bethel C.D Preparatory School in Sowutuom, I faced the challenges of adapting to a new environment and educational system. However, with the unwavering support of my loving mother and caring teachers, I overcame these obstacles and strove to be the best version of myself.
My educational journey took me to Mfantsipim School, where I discovered the power of education and its potential to transform lives. Witnessing the limitations faced by those in underprivileged communities, I became determined to bridge the gaps and create opportunities for others. This determination led me to establish my own startup tech company, specializing in software development, web development, and smart technology implementation. My goal was not only to achieve financial success but to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those with limited access to quality education. I’m currently a final year student at Central University. I now own a startup tech company that deals in software development, web development, smart technology implementation and many more.
3. What do you do?
Jerry: As mentioned earlier, I am currently a final year student at Central University and the owner of a tech start up company.
Joshua: I am a private school facilitator, I gather children and teach them how to read and write and serve as a librarian and facility manager at the Akumadan Spot- the library to be precise.
4. How did you hear about EduSpots and what inspired you to join/collaborate with EduSpots?
Joshua: I heard about EduSpots through Adu, the project lead at our Spot. I was inspired by him and decided to join EduSpots.
Jerry:I had the privilege of learning about EduSpots, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing educational access to underprivileged communities through Anita, a volunteer at the time. Inspired by Anita, I immediately knew that I wanted to be part of this noble cause. Joining forces with Gomoa Manso Spot, I committed myself to expanding educational opportunities and promoting technological literacy among children and young people in underserved areas. Together, we aimed to break the barriers that hindered their growth and development.
5. Was it your dream to be in education? Or something else led to it?
Jerry: I had always dreamed of helping others reach higher heights because in that small town where I grew up, I saw how young people and children especially are limited and disadvantaged due to lack or inadequate knowledge. Hence I decided to help in whatever way I can to give unlimited educational access to these children and young people in underprivileged communities.
Joshua: Yes, for me it is to recover what I wished I had . I didn’t have the chance to have access to a very good education and I always looked for avenues to change the narrative. That’s why I joined EduSpots.
6. What do you do when you are free?
Jerry: I enjoy praying, staying updated on the latest tech trends, watching movies, and playing video games during my free time. It’s a way for me to unwind and rejuvenate my creative spirit.
Joshua: Believe you me., when I am free, I plan how to help others, I play football and listen and make music.
7. Describe yourself in three words
Jerry: I am caring, creative, determined.
Joshua: I would describe myself with these three words; Inner Processor Outer.
Wow! Joshua, these words need unpacking. Can you elaborate?
Joshua: By Inner, I mean to learn how to collect data. *Processer: Try to solve it. *Outer: Solution. I am someone who loves to collect and process information in order to bring about solutions to problems.
8.What’s your philosophy of life?
Jerry: I believe in whatever you put your mind to do, include God first, do it with all your might and you will end up with the best result.
Joshua: I am still carving one currently.
9. What drives/ motivates you?
Joshua: I am motivated when I see the students I lead making progress in their education.
Jerry: My passion for education, innovation, and creating opportunities for those in need.
That’s awesome to hear.
10. Mention one fun fact about you
Jerry: Here’s a fun fact about me—I have a keen interest in watching early morning breakfast shows. Whether it’s politics, sports, or entertainment, I make sure to stay informed before starting my day.
Joshua: One fun fact about me is I love playing football and listening to music.
11. What are your future aspirations?
Jerry: Looking ahead, I envision myself as the founder and CEO of a global tech company that solves complex technological issues and drives innovation. With God as my guide and a relentless pursuit of excellence, I am confident that I will make a positive impact on a global scale. Through my startup, volunteer work, and the support of my loved ones, I am committed to empowering underprivileged communities and giving every individual the chance to reach their full potential.
Joshua: In the near future, I intend to pursue a career in teaching.
12. Give a general overview of your Spot and the activities you do.
Jerry: At the Gomoa Manso Spot, we are dedicated to helping the children in the community improve in their academics as well as have a wider and welcoming knowledge about technology. At the Spot, we engage the students in reading tutorials, typing and computer studies as well as organising healthy educational competition among the students.
Joshua: At the Akumadan Spot we usually gather the children and help them to read and write. The children are also in different strands hence they meet for these clubs at the appointed day and time. We educate the children, parents, and the community at large on child protection and safeguarding and ensure that the children are kept well away from harm while under our tutelage. We also take our learners through the EduSpots monthly challenges.
13. What do you love about your Spot?
Jerry: I found a sense of belonging and purpose at the Gomoa Manso Spot. Our team of passionate volunteers work tirelessly to create a nurturing environment where children could thrive academically and embrace the world of technology. We were more than just a group of individuals; we became a family united by our shared mission and selfless dedication and that’s why I always say my Spot is the best because we are not just a group of volunteers, we are a family.
Joshua: What I love about my Spot is the willingness of the volunteers to help out with the children. This constant support for the children and teamwork amongst volunteers is admirable. The Spot is also a safe space which makes it a welcoming environment to all its patrons.
14. Jerry, can you tell us more about your Tech company?
Jerry: Yes, most definitely! Software Technology Agency emerged from the vision of a passionate tech enthusiast. Fueled by a shared passion for creating cutting-edge solutions and empowering businesses, I embarked on a journey to establish a startup that would harness the power of technology to drive change and deliver exceptional services. It started off by providing kids with interactive educational videos and software. While Software Technology Agency has achieved significant success, the time has come for a new chapter. Anticipating the future demands of the tech industry and aligning with the vision for broader impact, I have decided to rebrand as Techtopia Ghana. The new name embodies their commitment to creating a technological utopia where innovation flourishes, businesses thrive, and individuals are empowered through transformative solutions.
15. Any final words?
Jerry: I am determined to leave a lasting impact, and I invite others to join me on this mission of empowerment and transformation. Together, we can build a future where education knows no boundaries and where every individual can thrive and succeed.
Joshua: I believe that our purpose on earth is to be a system of support for one another because no one is an island. Hence what I have to say is all extend a helping hand in any way you can most especially through volunteering. We are the ones to create the change we want to see in the world.
And there you heard it folks, we are the ones to create the change we want to see in the world. We have to leave a lasting impact in the lives of others.
Thank you Joshua and Jerry for your time. It’s been amazing getting to know you. I have realised that indeed, there is more to you than meets the eye. Thank you for the interview and congratulations once again for being Volunteer of the Month(May edition).
Jerry Paa Ekow Nyankson (left) and Joshua Agyemang (right)