In its continued drive to prepare young people for the world of work, Absa Bank Ghana hosted another session of its ReadytoWork webinar series, focused on unlocking the boss in you and empowering young people with real, practical insights to build sustainable businesses and careers.
The event, moderated by the Head of Internal Communications and Sponsorship at Absa Bank Ghana, Cyril Nai, featured perspectives from entrepreneur Anthony Owusu-Ansah and Elselund Ewudzie-Sampson, creative entrepreneurs and founders of ShaQs Express and Big Samps Market respectively.
Some of the key points raised include the importance of starting small, sustaining momentum, how to handle early business risks, and blending academic life with entrepreneurial aspirations.
Understanding what it means to unlock the boss in you
Kicking off the discussion, Anthony shared his journey of how he turned a humble delivery business into a thriving operation.
“The biggest challenge for anyone or any entrepreneur is to start,” he said. “And when you start, the next challenge is to keep going without giving up.”
Instead of waiting for major funding, Anthony emphasised the power of using what you already have. Starting with just four bikes, he reinvested every bit of profit to gradually expand. “People don’t invest in businesses; they invest in business owners,” he added, highlighting the importance of showing commitment and traction before seeking external investment.
Elselund echoed similar sentiments, explaining that her company only received its first major funding after years of self-funding and showing consistent growth.
“Know where you’re coming from. Don’t fake it. Build slowly and make sure your business decisions make financial sense,” she advised.
Overcoming fear and taking the first step
A major theme of the conversation was the fear of starting or not having enough to begin.
Addressing a student from the audience, Anthony acknowledged how daunting it can be to begin a venture without resources. “No matter how much you have, just start small to show what you can do, but let your work speak volumes.”
Elselund added that many people think they need a large team or office space to appear credible, but in reality, she ran her business solo for years. “It’s okay to be the only one at the beginning. As your business grows, you can build a team gradually and sustainably.”
Finding the Balance
For many young people, a key challenge is managing academic responsibilities while trying to pursue entrepreneurship. Elselund addressed this by emphasising the need for prioritisation. “You are in school to complete a programme. That’s your first commitment. But it doesn’t mean your business dream should die. Develop yourself on the side, ask questions, build skills, explore your idea—but don’t compromise your academics.”
Anthony also shared that he birthed his business idea while in school, but paused temporarily during his final project so he could graduate. “Time management and self-awareness are key. You can do both, but you have to be intentional,” he said.
Key takeaways: You already have what it takes
The webinar ended with a powerful reminder that entrepreneurship isn’t about perfection—it’s about action. “This right here—attending a session like this—is your first step to unlock the boss in you,” Anthony shared. “Start with what you have, build steadily, and let your numbers and passion speak for you.”
Elselund concluded by reinforcing the importance of authenticity, resilience, and patience. “No matter how tough it looks now, the effort adds up. Start now and don’t stop.”
The interactive session allowed attendees to ask direct questions and share their personal experiences, making the discussion highly engaging and relevant.
About Absa Ready to Work
Absa’s ReadytoWork is an educational and skills development programme that equips young people with the right knowledge and skills to smoothly transition from education to the work industry.
Designed to ensure no one misses out on the opportunity to start a business, the ReadytoWork programme includes a variety of online modules such as work skills, people skills, money skills, entrepreneurship skills, and creative thinking.
Additionally, ReadytoWork provides more advanced courses in fields like digital literacy, blockchain technologies, gig economy, project management, and computational thinking.
The ReadytoWork initiative aims to empower students and young professionals with the resources needed to be successful and thrive in today’s fast-moving talent economy.
Young people can select their own learning pathway depending on individual needs and complete the learning online using computer, tablet, or mobile platforms.
