NDC Flagbearer, Mr. John Dramani Mahama, and the MP for Tamale South, Mr. Haruna Iddrisu, along with corporate entities and other individuals, have been honoured at the 15th Young Professionals and Youth Coalition (YPYC) Transform Summit held in Kumasi. They were celebrated for their exceptional contributions to leadership and mentorship of youth in the West Africa sub-region.

The YPYC, established 15 years ago, focuses on youth and leadership development, aiming to cultivate generational thinkers and transformational leaders to advance national development in Ghana.

This year’s summit, themed “15 Years of Transformational Leadership,” recognized individuals and organizations for their impactful leadership that positively influences society. Each awardee received a plaque and citation, with Mr. Mahama’s award accepted on his behalf by Mr. Iddrisu. Mr. Iddrisu, celebrated as the best Young Politician in West Africa, emphasized the youth’s role in maintaining national peace and security, especially with the upcoming elections in December.

Nana Mensah Bonsu, representing the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu, highlighted the YPYC’s contributions to youth mentorship. Former President John Agyekum Kufuor, in a virtual message, urged the youth to embrace creativity and innovation, commending YPYC’s founder, Dr. Andy Osei Okrah, and its governing board for their efforts in nurturing young leaders.

Dr. Okrah reaffirmed YPYC’s mission to develop transformational leaders, noting that over 30,000 young people have been engaged in their programs. The summit also launched the YPYC Educational Entrepreneurship Empowerment Fund, aimed at supporting youth with innovative business ideas.

Distinguished personalities, including His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, former President John Mahama, Mr. Haruna Iddrisu, Dr. Randy Abbey, and Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, were among the award recipients for their leadership and lifetime achievements.