Standard Chartered has organised a mentorship session for students of Nsromma Cricket Academy, aimed at equipping young people from underserved communities with life skills, discipline and guidance on future career opportunities.
The programme brought together students from basic and senior high schools affiliated with the academy, including Revere Basic School, Excellence Basic School, Aggrey Basic School, Sackey Odoi Basic School, Anumle Basic School, Nii Okai Basic School, Achimota Basic 1 and 2, Achimota Senior High School, Kwabenya Senior High School and Swift Complex.
The session, held at the bank’s head office in Accra, provided students with an opportunity to interact directly with professionals, gain insights into career development and learn how to balance education with life responsibilities.
Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand and Marketing at Standard Chartered Bank, Asiedua Addae, said the initiative forms part of the bank’s philanthropic initiatives aimed at empowering young people, particularly girls and persons living with disabilities.
According to her, the bank’s community investment strategy focuses on economic empowerment through entrepreneurship and employability initiatives that equip young people with practical skills for the future.
She noted that the partnership with the Nsromma Cricket Academy was inspired by the academy’s work in using sports to encourage discipline and keep children in school.
“Our focus in community impact is youth, particularly girls and persons living with disabilities. We were inspired by the work of the Nsromma Cricket Academy, which uses cricket to encourage young people to attend school and develop discipline. Bringing students into our offices allows them to meet role models, receive guidance, and be motivated to pursue their careers,” she said.
The mentorship programme also forms part of Standard Chartered’s broader “130 Days of Kindness” initiative, which marks the bank’s 130th anniversary milestone in Ghana. The campaign will run from March to June and will include a series of events focused on youth empowerment, financial literacy and support for small and medium enterprises, with mentorship sessions forming the cornerstone of the effort.
Mr. Samuel Nana Ekow Biney Asamoah, founder and coach of Nsromma Cricket Academy, explained the academy’s vision and impact.
“I started this academy in 2012 to help children from vulnerable communities who often lack guidance and access to education. Cricket is more than a sport here, it teaches discipline, respect, teamwork and responsibility. It gives children the structure and values they need to succeed in life and the mentorship helps reinforce those lessons,” he said.
The retired mathematics teacher, noted that the academy currently engages about 500 students regularly, with outreach programmes reaching nearly 10,000 children last year in communities across Ghana.
Students are also provided with academic support, including weekend study camps, to ensure they can prepare adequately for national exams despite challenging home environments.
Relationship Manager at Standard Chartered Bank, Gloria Edmond, who shared her personal journey with the students, encouraged them to remain focused and disciplined despite difficult circumstances.
“You have to persevere and stay focused on your goals. Do not be distracted by what others are doing. Even when you have very little, continue working hard and believe that your efforts will eventually pay off,” she advised.
Yao Wordih, Head of Digital Products at the bank, discussed his journey of overcoming challenges to build a career in banking.
Mr. Wordih urged the students to remain determined and take advantage of opportunities that come their way.
“These experiences toughened me and prepared me for life. Discipline, resilience and the ability to seize opportunities are critical if you want to succeed. Opportunities come to those who are prepared to seize them. We want to show you that your background does not define your future,” he told the students.
Following the mentoring session, the students were given a guided tour of the office premises, which inspired them to pursue their dreams with renewed enthusiasm and confidence.
Through its Mentors Den sessions in 2025, the bank engaged with more than 4,000 young individuals, offering guidance aimed at enabling youth from underserved communities to realise their full potential.
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