“I am passionate about the Sora Kaufman Fellowship program, which seeks to establish a network of African leaders and practitioners in community-driven development and advocacy. My journey, filled with both challenges and accomplishments, has shaped me into a committed individual dedicated to making a positive impact. From a young age, I have been passionate about helping others and improving the lives of those less fortunate”, Lamptey Benedicta Naa Odarkor, Sora Kaufman Fellow.
Miss Naa Odarkor currently works as a Project Manager with the Community and Family Aid Foundation, where she plays a lead role in developing detailed project proposals and plans, including objectives, timelines, budgets, and resource requirements, often in response to funding opportunities.
She also manages project budgets by tracking expenditures, ensuring cost-effectiveness, and preparing financial reports and coordinates the work of project team members – assigning tasks, setting deadlines, and ensuring alignment with project goals. Regularly monitoring project progress, adjusting strategies as needed to stay on track and achieve objectives.
Furthermore, Miss Naa Odarkor acts as a liaison between the project team and external stakeholders to ensure clear and effective communication and maintains a comprehensive documentation of project processes, decisions, and outcomes for accountability and future reference to increased trust, support, and collaboration.
According to her, her efforts have helped to enhance the organization’s capacity by improving project management processes, training staff, and developing best practices.
“I ensure that the benefits of the projects are sustainable over the long term, providing lasting value to the target communities.”
Education, successes
Born on 14th December 1986, Miss Naa Odarkor, holds a bachelor’s degree in business commerce (Management option) from the University of Cape Coast, Ghana, and a Higher National Diploma in Hospitality Management from Koforidua Technical University.
Some of her notable achievements include successfully completing projects on time and within budget, achieving significant positive outcomes for the community, such as improved access to education, healthcare, and other critical services. I have also built and maintained strong relationships with stakeholders, contributing
Experiences
- Working with Willows International as a Field Educator on reproductive health in 2015.
- Participating in a three-day community forum and rally organized by Ghana Reducing Our Carbon in August 2014, aimed at combating climate change and promoting renewable energy in Shama, Western Region.
- Gaining diverse experience through roles at AFRAH International Hospital and T.I. Microfinance, where I interacted with people from various backgrounds.
- Engaging with different cultural communities during my tertiary education and national service in the Eastern Region.
Integrating knowledge from fellowship
Integrating knowledge from the Sora Kaufman Fellowship program into my workplace and community development work involves applying the principles and skills learned to enhance my effectiveness and impact. She intends to do this through enhancing Community Engagement, building local capacity, promoting inclusivity and equity as well as fostering collaborative partnerships.
Proposed plans going forward
Upon completion of the Sora Kaufman Fellowship Program, Miss Naa Odarkor hopes to consider strategic plans aimed at maximizing the impact of her new skills and knowledge.
She has these proposals that align with her career goals and aspirations:
- Implement Community Projects: Launch a Community Initiative: I will use the expertise gained during the fellowship to design and implement a community-driven project. I will focus on a pressing issue identified during the fellowship, such as improving local infrastructure, enhancing educational opportunities, or addressing health disparities.
- Strengthen Local Partnerships: Develop Collaborative Networks: I will build and strengthen partnerships with local organizations, government agencies, and other stakeholders. I will use the networks established during the fellowship to foster collaboration on community development initiatives.
- Enhance Capacity Building: Conduct Training Workshops: I will offer training and workshops to local community leaders, organizations, and stakeholders on skills and knowledge gained during the fellowship. I will focus on areas such as project management, community engagement, and resource mobilization.
Congratulations to you, Miss Naa Odarkor! ACA wishes you well in your 12-month journey with the Sora Kaufman Fellowship program.
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