Businessman and philanthropist Alhaji Seidu Agongo has urged young Ghanaians to identify their talents and pursue them with determination, stressing that success is achievable through hard work, commitment and the right opportunities.
He made the call on Wednesday during the presentation of the first batch of sewing machines under his nationwide initiative to distribute 10,000 machines to vulnerable women and young people.
Agongo said Ghana had a wealth of talented young people whose potential could be unlocked with the necessary resources and support.
“You should not be shy about your talents. Once it is a genuine talent, pursue it and commit your energy, your heart and your time to it,” he said.
He added that success was not merely an aspiration portrayed in movies or books but a realistic possibility for those prepared to work towards their goals.
“Breakthroughs are not miracles you only see in movies or read about in books. They are real, but they must be backed by hard work, commitment and a goal,” he stated.
According to him, many young Ghanaians possess the creativity and skills needed to compete globally but lack the resources and opportunities to develop their abilities.
He said the initiative was part of his efforts to provide support where possible, urging beneficiaries to make the most of the opportunity to improve their livelihoods.
The sewing machine distribution programme is being implemented in partnership with the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), with the aim of equipping women and young people with employable skills and the tools needed to establish or expand tailoring and dressmaking businesses.
More than 800 sewing machines were distributed during the first phase, with subsequent distributions expected to take place at later dates.
Interested applicants are required to complete a form available on Agongo’s social media platforms to be considered for a free sewing machine.
The businessman said the initiative reflected his commitment to sharing opportunities and supporting vulnerable members of society.
Addressing the beneficiaries, the founder of the now-collapsed Heritage Bank Limited urged them to use the machines productively to build sustainable livelihoods and create opportunities for others.
“We all need kindness. Whatever your situation, I will say don’t despair. I want to help everyone as much as possible. I want to live by people’s happiness,” he said.
“There is room for everyone if we genuinely support each other. I have always believed in sharing, supporting and being there for everyone whenever I can.”
Agongo described the programme as an extension of his long-standing commitment to philanthropy and efforts to help people become economically self-reliant.
He expressed hope that beneficiaries would use the machines to generate income, improve their living conditions and support those around them.
“At the end, we will be better and God and Ghana will be the winner,” he added.
The sewing machine donation is the latest in a series of interventions by Agongo aimed at supporting young people, women and vulnerable groups.
Over the years, he has supported skills training, educational programmes, entrepreneurship initiatives and humanitarian causes through personal and corporate interventions.
Some beneficiaries welcomed the donation, expressing optimism that the machines would help them establish small businesses, earn sustainable incomes and reduce their dependence on others.
The nationwide distribution exercise is expected to continue in phases until all 10,000 sewing machines have been distributed to beneficiaries across the country.
Story by : Belinda Anim-Piesie
