A Sora Kaufman Fellow, Margaret Afia Konadu, maintains that her experience with the program remains a cornerstone of her personal and professional journey as it has reinforced her belief in the power of collaboration, adaptability and empathy to drive meaningful change. 
According to her, the one-month in-house training and community engagement experience as part of the Fellowship was a unique blend of personal growth, professional development, and meaningful connections. It offered a holistic approach to building leadership and entrepreneurial skills while fostering a deeper understanding of community-driven development.
Sharing her experiences with the SK Fellowship, she applauded the training session organized for the six pioneering members of the Fellowship, noting that it covered a wide range of topics that were not only educational but also deeply practical.
“Sessions on financial management provided valuable insights into resource allocation and sustainability, which I plan to incorporate into the operations of Margees Craft and Training Center. Discussions on self-discipline emphasized the importance of personal accountability, an attribute that is vital in both professional and personal spheres”, she said.
Interactive moments
“We had the privilege of interacting with notable leaders like Captain Prince Kofi Amoabeng, whose experiences and wisdom underscored the importance of ethical leadership and resilience in the face of challenges.”
Touching on the session on “balancing family and work”, Madam Afia Konadu said it was a crucial topic for anyone striving to excel professionally without neglecting personal responsibilities, adding that: “These discussions were complemented by practical topics such as monitoring and evaluation, which emphasized the importance of tracking progress and ensuring impact in all projects, and local governance and advocacy, which illuminated the role of community stakeholders in driving sustainable change.”
Community engagement
“Beyond the classroom, the community engagement at Bepoase was a transformative experience. The warm reception by Ma Selina and the local leaders was a reminder of the strength and resilience of grassroots communities. Observing ongoing development projects like the mechanized borehole and witnessing the role of community leaders reinforced the value of collaboration and stakeholder ownership in achieving meaningful change.”
“Equally significant were the bonds formed during this journey. Whether it was through shared meals, heartfelt conversations, or participating in local activities, every interaction strengthened the sense of camaraderie among participants. These relationships have not only enriched my network but have also inspired a deeper commitment to fostering collaboration in my professional endeavors.”
Challenges
Madam Afia Konadu also made some observations regarding some challenges she encountered during the program.
She mentioned some of them as “logistical difficulties and limited interaction time due to community activities.”
“These obstacles became opportunities to practice adaptability and problem-solving, skills that are essential in leadership roles.”
Knowledge gained
It is instructive to note that the knowledge and insights she gained during this experience have already begun to shape her vision for Margees Craft and Training Center.
She said the emphasis on community engagement and sustainable solutions will drive her efforts to expand weaving and skill development programs while the lessons on monitoring and evaluation will enhance our ability to measure impact effectively, ensuring that our initiatives truly address the needs of our beneficiaries.
“As I move forward, this. The lessons learned, bonds formed, and memories created will continue to inspire me to lead with purpose and resilience in every endeavor.”
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