MTN Ghana Foundation has officially launched the seventh season of its Heroes of Change program, aimed at recognizing and celebrating individuals who make extraordinary contributions to their communities.
The Heroes of Change initiative stands as a testament to MTN’s broader vision of empowering individuals and communities, further cementing the company’s role in driving social and digital transformation in Africa.
The MTN Heroes of Change programme which is the flagship programme of the Foundation also seeks to rekindle the spirit of patriotism among Ghanaians.
Speaking at the launch, the Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer Madam Adwoa Wiafe emphasized that MTN’s mission goes beyond telecommunications; the company is dedicated to inspiring leadership and innovation, both within the organization and across local communities.
According to her, the Heroes of Change initiative, which began in 2013, seeks to highlight people who work tirelessly to transform marginalized communities, often with limited resources.
These individuals, dubbed “change-makers,” embody MTN’s commitment to improving lives across Ghana.
“Our goal is to unearth the next Wangari Maathai of Ghana—ordinary people creating extraordinary change in their communities,” the Chief Corporate Officer stated.
The program has so far honored over 100 heroes from diverse backgrounds, including doctors, journalists, and individuals with no formal education but driven by a passion for making a difference.
This season introduces a new Digital Hero category, aimed at recognizing those who utilize social media and digital platforms to drive positive change.
“The ultimate winner will receive GHC 100,000, with other nominees also being rewarded. Additionally, workshops will be held to teach shortlisted heroes business skills and how to maximize digital platforms to further their impact. However, Season 7 of the MTN Heroes of Change will run till the 18th of October 2024.
MTN is calling on the public to nominate deserving individuals, encouraging everyone to support and recognize these unsung heroes. The program will use platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram to engage audiences and sustain interest throughout the season.
Madam Adwoa Wiafe expressed gratitude to MTN’s partners, the media, and the community for their continued support. “We hope this year’s Heroes of Change will inspire us all, especially the youth, to take action and contribute to the betterment of society,” she stated.
In his welcome address, Robert Kuzoe, Senior Manager of Sustainability & Social Impact at MTN Ghana, thanked partners, the jury, media, and community leaders for their crucial support of the MTN Heroes of Change programme.
Past winners also expressed their gratitude to MTN Ghana for promoting their local and international projects, vowing to uphold the trust the company and its Foundation have placed in them.
Judges
An independent panel of judges, composed of Rev. Albert Ocran (Motivational Speaker), Oheneyere Gifty Anti ( media personality), and Adjetey Anang (actor), selects the winners’ projects.
The MTN Heroes of Change was first launched in July 2013 to identify and recognize selfless people who continue to sacrifice their time and resources to improve their communities and brighten their lives.
MTN Heroes of Change has won several awards. The project was recently adjudged 2016 IPR Best Community Relations Programme of the Year and was also awarded CSR Programme of the Year 2015 by the Head of State Awards (HoSA) Scheme.
Source: Isaac Kofi Dzokpo/newsghana.com.gh