February 10, 2025

SEED Academy Ghana Hosts First-Ever Sports Leadership Summit to Empower Future Leaders

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SEED Academy

SEED Academy Ghana celebrated a significant milestone on Saturday, December 28, with the hosting of its inaugural SEED Sports Leadership Summit at the University of Ghana Business School. The event gathered influential figures from the basketball world, including Amadou Gallo Fall, President of the Basketball Africa League (BAL); former NBA player Pops Mensah-Bonsu; WNBA legend Angel McCoughtry; Star Wright; and John Manyo-Plange, the Vice President of the BAL. Together, they engaged in insightful discussions about how to foster both basketball development and leadership in Ghana.

This summit is a key part of SEED Academy’s broader vision, which combines sports and education to cultivate the next generation of leaders who will drive social and economic change in the country. Founded in 2018 by Mensah-Bonsu, the academy has consistently built a solid reputation through various initiatives, including the Elite Camp and Community Day of Play. These programs have helped youth grow not just athletically but also personally, as they gain valuable leadership skills.

Mensah-Bonsu emphasized the importance of a holistic approach to youth development. “Our goal is to provide more than just basketball training,” he said. “We want these young athletes to not only succeed on the court but to excel in life. Through our programs, we focus on leadership development, character building, and preparing these students for success beyond sports.”

The event also included a special Community Day of Play, where 100 children from local charities participated in activities led by SEED Academy students. “It’s about giving back,” Mensah-Bonsu explained. “Our students are not only learning leadership skills themselves, but they are also inspiring the younger generation. This strengthens the sense of community and helps us all grow together.”

One of the highlights of the summit was the panel of experts who shared their perspectives on various topics related to sports and leadership. Angel McCoughtry, a legendary WNBA player, spoke passionately about the importance of representation and mentorship, especially for young female athletes. “It’s vital for young girls to see women succeeding in sports and leadership,” she stated. “But it’s equally important for boys to have access to mentorship programs. Representation matters for everyone, regardless of gender.” McCoughtry also expressed her excitement about the growth of basketball talent in Ghana, sharing her optimism for the future of African sports. “Africa is emerging as a global powerhouse in basketball,” she said. “The world will soon recognize the incredible talent coming from this continent.”

Star Wright, founder of the Star Wright Foundation, also highlighted the role of sports in shaping character. “Sports teach invaluable life lessons,” she said. “It’s important to help young athletes develop values like discipline, perseverance, and teamwork. These values will help them in all aspects of their lives.” Wright stressed the importance of focusing on the critical developmental years between 8 and 18, when young people are most impressionable and when guidance can have the greatest impact.

John Manyo-Plange, Vice President of the BAL, underscored the importance of grassroots basketball development. “As we grow the BAL, we must not forget the youth who are the future of the game,” he said. “Basketball offers more than just athletic opportunities; it provides life lessons that help shape the character of young people.” Manyo-Plange also commended Ghana’s impressive performance in international basketball competitions, particularly the Spintex Knights, and expressed optimism about the country’s future prospects in the BAL.

Reflecting on SEED Academy’s progress, Mensah-Bonsu reiterated the academy’s commitment to continuous growth. “We believe that consistency is key to building a strong community,” he said. “Our goal is to expand our impact in Ghana and use basketball as a platform for economic empowerment and social change.” Looking ahead to 2025, SEED Academy plans to increase its outreach and programming, encouraging local schools, churches, and other organizations to collaborate in empowering the next generation of leaders.

The summit demonstrated SEED Academy’s dedication to shaping young leaders and fostering a brighter future through sports and education. By bringing together key figures in basketball and providing a platform for dialogue and mentorship, the academy is laying the groundwork for a generation of youth who are not only skilled athletes but also capable leaders.

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