Embrace the ‘I Will, I Can’ Spirit – Chief of Staff Charges Youth at National Conference”

By Joylinda Laryea / 6 August 2025

The Chief of Staff, Hon. Julius Debrah, has called on Ghanaian youth to cultivate a spirit of determination, resilience, and faith as they strive to unlock their full potential.

Addressing thousands of young people at the closing ceremony of the two-day National Youth Conference at the Pentecost Convention Centre in Gomoa Fetteh, Mr. Debrah urged participants to adopt what he described as the “I will, I can” spirit.

“Anything you set your heart on is possible with the blessings of God,” he told the gathering, stressing that success is rooted in perseverance, hard work, and prayer. He emphasized the importance of the “God factor”, noting that whether one calls upon Allah or God, sincere faith in a higher power provides strength, clarity, and direction for life’s journey.

The Chief of Staff also shared his personal story of humble beginnings in Akorako, a village where electricity was absent even up to his sixth-form education. “The gentleman standing before you today had a very rough start. But with perseverance, belief in my potential, and faith in God, I have come this far,” he remarked, highlighting that background or circumstance should never define one’s future.

The National Youth Conference, held under the theme “Igniting Potential and Inspiring Change”, was organized by the National Youth Authority (NYA) to empower young people to harness their abilities, overcome challenges, and play active roles in Ghana’s development.

The event drew key government officials, youth leaders, and stakeholders. Among the dignitaries present were Hon. George Opare-Addo, Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment; Osman Ayariga, Acting CEO of the NYA; Hon. Margret Naana Ackom, District Chief Executive for Gomoa East; Chief Mike Derry, Central Region Political Coordinator at the Office of the President; and Dr. Emmanuel Appoh Mensah, former Parliamentary Aspirant of the NDC in Gomoa East.

As part of the closing ceremony, Mr. Debrah, alongside the dignitaries, inspected a parade by the Naval Cadet Corps of Apam Senior High School.

The two-day conference, which brought together young people from across the country, featured interactive sessions, panel discussions, and motivational addresses. It sought to inspire participants to believe in themselves, embrace opportunities, and contribute meaningfully to national transformation.

“Success is not an accident,” Mr. Debrah concluded. “It is born of focus, hard work, and faith.”