A heartfelt initiative titled “Letters of Hope to My Younger Self” has recently been launched, featuring touching letters penned by notable Ghanaians to their younger selves.
The brainchild of Aba Cato Andah and Zoe Baraka is a legacy project that aims to inspire and encourage the hopes and aspirations of today’s youth through the wisdom gained from life experiences.
One of the letters, authored by Joyce Bawah Mogtari Esq., addresses a 14-year-old Joyce, emphasising the transitional nature of adolescence and the importance of courage and exploration during this phase of life.
“Dear Joyce, you are 14 years old. It is a veritable stage of transition, not one of arrival. It is an age that represents that palpable bridge between childhood and adulthood – a time to step out with courage, blaze new trails and explore without fear. It is a period of becoming.” – Joyce Bawah Mogtari Esq.
On Thursday 14 March, this book was officially launched at the signature art galleries in a beautiful ceremony.
The book, a compilation of the failures, fears, discouragements and missteps of thirty-nine different contributors seeks to inspire and encourage the hopes and aspirations of the coming youth.
The contributors include, Victor Bampoe, Lucy Quist, Angelo Akyeampong, Joyce Bawa Mogtari, Akua Ofori Boateng, Cynthia Quarcoo, Andrew Campbell, Joe Mettle, Edith Kpodo-Uyovbukerhi, Mary Asabea Eshun, Esi Eduafowa Sey, Elijah Paintsil, Angela Otchi, Elizabeth-Irene Baitie, Kofi Otutu Adu Labi, Elikem Kuenyehia, Matilda Amissah-Arthur, Peter Akwaboah, Joyce Aryee, Annan Arkyin Cato, Galileo Akom, Jim Awindor, Ellen Hagan, Samuel Mills, Maame Afon Yelbert-Sai, Ayinemi Augustina Avonsige, Christabel Dadzie, Naaku Dua, Yaw Nsarkoh, Eugenia Tachie-Menson, Jayne Offori-Deku, Nana Dadzie Ghnasah, Rabiatu Ayoka Arthur, Awura Abena Agyeman, Ace Anan Ankomah, Akwasi Osei, Adeline Ainooson, Robert Nii Arday Clegg, and Teddy Totimeh.
At the launch, educator, author, researcher and CEO of Ghana International School, Dr. Mary Eshun, shared an excerpt from her chapter, offering words of resilience and encouragement to her younger self.
It went, “Dear Mary, you’re nine years old and are beginning to think you have a handle on this immigrant thing. For three years now, you and your family have been living in Chigwell (in Essex, England) and attending Limes Farm County School. You’ve got the most amazing teacher, Mr. Redarn. You’re not bullied at school like before, and trips to (in the grocery store don’t end up with you being chased home by a bunch of neighbourhood kids yelling ‘nigger’, causing your two plastic bags of grocery to fall, spilling milk, eggs and bread onto the sidewalk…. Chin up girl.”
“You will find that life is full of adjustments. Just when you think you are settled and comfortable and everyone knows your worth, you’re going to get thrown a curveball…. One day, you will mentor others and these experiences you are having will make you confident, empathetic and impactful, even if you are the only black person in the room! Love you, Mary.”
Another contributor, Robert Nii Arday Clegg’s letter of hope offered encouragement and advice to his younger self at 18, reflecting on the disappointment of academic setbacks and the importance of faith and preparation in overcoming challenges.
“At 18, your first real disappointment in life is upon you. You excelled in two of your three subjects at A level, but only managed a weak pass in your third…. Always remember how Mrs. Doris Antonio encouraged you with Jeremiah 29:11: “for I know the plans I have for you says lord, declares the lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Continue to believe in God and always endeavour to approach task fully prepared. Yours, Robert@47.”
These letters, filled with personal anecdotes and life lessons serve as a timeless guide for posterity to read and learn from, reminding us that struggles we face today are integral to shaping our future paths.
This collection stands as a testament to the power of reflection, mentorship, and the enduring spirit of the Ghanaian people.
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