In 2015, in a modest lecture hall with just 85 students, Dr. Bernard Tawiah launched the first edition of the What I Wish I Knew (WIWIK) Conference. Then a final year student at the University of Cape Coast, Bernard was driven by a simple but compelling goal: to equip his peers with practical knowledge and real world insights that would prepare them for life after graduation.
A decade on, WIWIK has grown into one of Ghana’s most influential personal development platforms for tertiary students. With over 10,000 young people directly impacted, the conference has been hosted at institutions including the University of Cape Coast, University of Ghana, and the University of Professional Studies, Accra. Its reach and relevance have expanded year after year, with each edition tailored to meet the evolving needs of Ghanaian youth.
The growth of WIWIK has been powered by the dedication of volunteer teams made up of students and young professionals, many of whom now hold leadership positions across diverse industries. Alumni from past WIWIK organizing teams have gone on to earn prestigious international scholarships, join multinational firms, and lead impactful initiatives across the continent. Many of them credit WIWIK as a defining part of their development, having gained invaluable exposure, confidence, and a strong network through their involvement. Their stories are a powerful testament to the long-term impact of the initiative.
Over the years, WIWIK has explored transformational themes ranging from self-leadership, entrepreneurship, and ethical decision making to resilience and adaptability in a changing world. It has become a space where unconventional stories and lived experiences take center stage where young people can be inspired by real, relatable journeys.
The conference has hosted a wide range of thought leaders and changemakers, including Bernard Avle, Dr. Kevin Campbell, Professor Russel Napier, Lucy Quist, Coach Kwesi Appiah, Ayesha Bedwei Ibe, Kafui Dey, Petra Aba Asamoah, Capt. Prince Kofi Amoabeng, Audrey Naa Dei Kotey, Femi Adun, Ola Olaleye, Olusegun Akingugbe, and Doris Ahiati. Each speaker has brought a unique blend of insight and authenticity that deeply resonates with the audience.
As WIWIK marks its 10th anniversary, this year’s theme “Breaking the Mold: Transformation Through Personal Enterprise” honors the unconventional journeys of individuals who dared to challenge the status quo. The event, scheduled for June 27, 2025, at the University of Ghana Business School, will feature keynote speeches and panel discussions.
Confirmed speakers include Dr. Victoria Kwakwa (Former Vice President, World Bank), Dr. Elikem Tamaklo (Board Chairman, Nyaho Healthcare), Ms. Ethel Cofie (CEO, Edel Technology), Mrs. Ayesha Bedwei Ibe (Global People Leader, Tax and Legal Services – PwC), Dr. Ellen Hagan (Group CEO, L’AINE HR & Co-founder, Legacy Girls College), Edna Frimpong (Co-founder, Ahofade), Doris Ahiati (CEO, Crescendo Consult).
Over the years, WIWIK has earned the confidence of forward-looking organizations that share its mission to shape Ghana’s next generation of leaders. For the 2025 edition, partners include the University of Ghana Business School, Absa Bank, Unilever, Audrey Grey, Entrivis, Ravens Consult, Southern Utah University, Young Investor Network, Crescendo Consult, Bonking Electronics, Business & Financial Times, Citi FM, and Channel One TV. Their support underscores a shared commitment to youth development, enterprise, and nation building.
With thousands of participants expected both in person and online, WIWIK 2025 is set to be the most impactful edition to date. More than a celebration of a decade of growth, this milestone event will serve as a powerful platform to ignite fresh ideas, elevate bold voices, and propel the next generation of thinkers, builders, and changemakers.
