Our Students
Amatu Tahiru
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Meet Amatu Tahiru! She was born in the Northern Region and lived there with her grandma. At age seven, her mother and father sent for her to live in Accra. Amatu’s parents were unable to be educated past primary school due to financial reasons. Currently, her mom is a cleaner and her dad is a taxi driver. It is a struggle for her parents to put food on the table, but want the best for their daughter and it is their dream to see her graduate from University.
Amatu is dedicated to her studies, and this dedication is shown by the story of how she became a part of the GEC family. Upon hearing that the founders of GEC were visiting her school for tutoring and mentoring, she made it her mission to be a part of the program. Daily, Amatu would find out where the GEC founders and students were meeting and attend their meetings to prove how smart and dedicated she was. The GEC founders were so impressed by her that they looked into her academic record and found that she was an excellent candidate for the program. The more we found out about Amatu, the more we were blown away by her ability to overcome obstacles while thriving in school. She travelled to school each day on an over-crowded bus for over an hour. If she was unable to catch the bus, Amatu would walk for two hours. Regardless, Amatu was first in her class in primary school. Now, Amatu is still thriving as a secondary school student and maintains high marks. She hopes to become a lawyer in the future and we have no doubt that she will get there! We are so proud of Amatu and all she has achieved, as well as what she will achieve in the future. |
How you can help- For $580/year or $48/month, you will support sending Amatu to school, paying for books, tuition, extra class fees, food, school supplies, housing essentials, family support, and mentoring. Your donation will change the course of Amatu’s life pushing her to one day reach her goal of becoming a lawyer and leader in her own community.
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BEthel Nyako
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Bethel’s story is one of absolute endurance. Bethel has grown up in the Accra area in entire life. Bethel currently lives with her mother, older sister and young brother. He father left the family when Bethel’s was 7 years old because her mother had not yet given him a son, which he found to be unacceptable. He no longer wants anything to do with Bethel or her sister. Since then her mother has had to struggle to support the family. Currently, her mother is desperately searching for work and has been unable to feed the family. They have been getting by on the generosity of others. Despite her families hardships Bethel is determined to become a lawyer. Her grandfather always wanted to be a lawyer and she wants to live out his dreams. She also wants to bring justice for the women in Ghana who are in situations similar to her mother. Bethel is a student that is well spoken and outgoing. Those that meet her are blown away by her character and spirit. As her teachers said, she is a student that you can put your money on. |
How you can help- For $580/year or $48/month, you will support sending Bethel to school, paying for books, tuition, extra class fees, food, school supplies, housing essentials, family support, and mentoring. Your donation will change the course of Bethel’s life pushing her to one day reach her goal of becoming a lawyer and leader in her own community.
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emmanuel Nkansah
How you can help- For $460/year or $38/month, you will support sending Emmanuel to school, paying for books, tuition, extra class fees, food, school supplies, housing essentials, family support, and mentoring fees. Your donation will change the course of Emmanuel’s life pushing him to one day reach his goal of becoming a scientist and leader in his community.
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Meet Emmanuel Nkansah! Emmanuel was born in the Osuben village in Ghana’s Western region, which is a very small community without a school nearby. As his mother passed away when he was young, Emmanuel lived with his grandmother. Growing up, Emmanuel’s grandmother saw how intelligent he was and felt he should attend school in Accra. When Emmanuel was seven, he was sent to Accra to live with his aunt and attend school for the first time. Before Emmanuel’s mother passed, she said it was her greatest wish for her son to complete his education.
Emmanuel has five sisters and one brother, and his father is a bus driver that is unable to provide for the family. Emmanuel’s aunt is a dressmaker and works to support Emmanuel and his siblings, working every day of the week from six in the morning to ten at night and struggling to put food on the table. Regardless, Emmanuel is a hardworking student who puts a smile on everyone’s face! He is currently a secondary school student and is a leader among his peers as well as a leader in the classroom who consistently makes high marks. Emmanuel hopes to become a scientist one day and we have no doubt he will succeed in doing so! His teachers and headmistresses always speak highly of his strong moral character and academic ability. |
Frank Asare
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Frank was born in the Volta Region of Ghana and grew up in an area called Mempeasem. When Frank was one year old his mother brought him to his grandparents home on Christmas Day. His mother told his Grandmother she was going to pick up something and would return to the home. No one has seen or heard from Frank’s mother in nine years. Due to this Frank has grown up never knowing his mother and has lived with his grandparents who raised him as their own son. Frank’s grandparents finished school through the basic level. Currently, Frank’s grandmother is ill with diabetes and has not been able to work and though he is older, Frank’s grandfather repairs fridges to bring in money for the family. Frank is consistently first in his class. He is determined to be excellent in his education. Even when he does not have any money for school or food he goes to school in hopes that someone will still teach him. He believes in the power of his education and is convicted that he will succeed for his grandparents. |
How you can help- For $580/year or $48/month, you will support sending Frank to school, paying for books, tuition, extra class fees, food, school supplies, housing essentials, family support, and mentoring. Your donation will change the course of Frank’s life pushing him to one day reach his goal of becoming a doctor and leader in his own community.
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Godwin Kpodo
How you can help- For $2,000/year or $168/month, you will support sending Godwin to school, paying for books, tuition, extra class fees, food, school supplies, housing essentials, family support, and mentoring. This donation will change the course of Godwin’s life, pushing him to one day reach his goal of becoming a doctor, minister and leader in his own community.
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Godwin grew up in the Volta Region (a southern region in Ghana) with both of his parents, his three brothers and three sisters. He is the third oldest in his family. His father only attended up to primary school and is a welder. His mother also was only able to attended primary school and is a trader, selling food provisions. His family moved to Accra when he in junior secondary school in hopes of getting better jobs.
Upon moving to Accra his parents were taking care of the six siblings and seven other family members that stayed with them. Godwin’s father is not always able to find work so money is very limited to support the seventeen people in the household. Due to the fact that Godwin’s parents did not have money for a home they had to “squat” on a piece of land that was owned by another family. Squatting left the family unsure of how long their living situation would last. Godwin came into the program on the pleas of teachers at GEC’s biggest partner school. Godwin’s teacher boosted of what an exceptional student he was. Upon entering the program Godwin has been nothing but impressive going as far as to start a youth outreach club modeled after GEC in his high school. |
ISAAC ANANE
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Isaac’s teacher speaks very highly of him, stating he is a quick learner and strong academically. She noted his drive to learn the curriculum she is teaching.
Isaac is originally from the African country of Togo. At a young age, Isaac was abandoned by his parents, causing him to move in with his older brother in the Volta Region. Although his brother had hoped to give Isaac a better life, he was no longer able to continue paying for Isaac to attend school. Isaac was eventually sent to live with his new guardians in Ghana's capital, Accra, to become "house help." Because Isaac only received an elementary school education in Togo, Isaac was enrolled in the third grade at Bawaleshie Primary School in Accra. His teacher quickly saw how motivated and serious he was about getting an education, and soon promoted him to the 4th grade. When Isaac is not at school he sells kenkey, a local sourdough dumpling. While selling kenkey, he makes time to study and complete his homework. Isaac wants to become a solider after he completes school. |
For $500 for the year, or $42.00 a month you will be able to support sending Isaac to school, paying his books, tuition, extra class fees, food, school supplies, housing essentials, family support, mentoring feeds and on-going support. This donation will fundamentally change the course of Isaac’s life pushing him to one day reach his goal of being a civil engineer and becoming a leader who effects wide scale change within his own community.
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Linda Ayaaminyeka
How you can help- For $580/year or $48/month, you will support sending Linda to school, paying for books, tuition, extra class fees, food, school supplies, housing essentials, family support, and mentoring fees. Your donation will change the course of Linda’s life pushing her to one day reach her goal of becoming a doctor and leader in her community.
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Meet Linda Ayaaminyeka! Born in Accra, Linda is the only girl of four children. Her mother is a trader who sells fruit when it is in season. The family struggles financially and lives in a wooden structure without electricity or running water.
Linda is outgoing, bubbly, and has a true thirst for knowledge! She always strives to be the best version of herself in every endeavor. Despite the hardships in her life, she is an overcomer who only sees opportunities in life. She pursues every opportunity with hard work and grace, knowing that her dedication to education will lead her and her family to a better life! One day, Linda will be a doctor and take care of those in her community. |
Millicent Ofotsu
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Meet Millicent Ofotsu (pictured in the black dress)! Millicent’s family is originally from the Volta region, but she currently resides in Accra with her parents and two siblings. Her mom sells donuts on the side of the road and her dad has a declining flour business. Her parents recently separated, which has been very difficult on the family.
In school, Millicent seems quiet. However, upon getting to know her, she definitely not! She loves to make light-hearted jokes with her friends and can often be found giggling with fellow GEC students. Millicent is respectful to her teachers and consistently performs well in school. Her teachers say that “she is always a student you can bet on!” Millicent enjoys learning and hopes to become a doctor in the future so that she can serve her community. |
For $500 for the year, or $42.00 a month you will be able to support sending Millicent to school, paying her books, tuition, extra class fees, food, school supplies, housing essentials, family support, mentoring feeds and on-going support. This donation will fundamentally change the course of Millicent’s life pushing her to one day reach her goal of being a doctor and becoming a leader who effects wide scale change within her own community.
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Priscilla Hanson
Meet Priscilla Hanson! Priscilla was born in Cape Coast in the Central Region of Ghana. She is the youngest of six siblings and comes from a family that truly understands the importance of education. Priscilla’s mother was forced to drop out of school when she was young because her family was unable to pay for it, and as a mother wants the opposite for her children. Priscilla’s mom sells biscuits and drinks on the side of the road to support her family and put food on the table, but unfortunately still struggles.
Priscilla is extremely hardworking, curious, and competitive. Her efforts in school do not go unnoticed, and teachers often name her as a student assistant or “cupboard girl.” She truly is a servant leader and is always looking to help others in whatever way she can, always being an example to those around her! In the future, Priscilla wants to become a lawyer and serve as an advocate to ensure that Ghana is more just. We have no doubt she will accomplish her goals, and the GEC family so proud of the young woman she is becoming! |
For $500 for the year, or $42.00 a month you will be able to support sending Priscilla to school, paying her books, tuition, extra class fees, food, school supplies, housing essentials, family support, mentoring feeds and on-going support. This donation will fundamentally change the course of Priscilla’s life pushing her to one day reach her goal of becoming a lawyer to help make Ghana a more just country.
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Prince Anponsah
For $500 for the year, or $42.00 a month you will be able to support sending Prince to school, paying his books, tuition, extra class fees, food, school supplies, housing essentials, family support, mentoring feeds and on-going support. This donation will fundamentally change the course of Prince’s life pushing him to one day reach his goal of being a civil engineer and becoming a leader who effects wide scale change within his own community.
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Meet Prince Aponsah! Prince’s smile lights up every room and he is always sure to greet you with his signature salute. His biological parents live in the Eastern Region, but Prince lives in Accra with his auntie and uncle. As the youngest of ten siblings, it is difficult for his parents to send their children to school. Prince’s auntie and uncle saw great potential in him and offered to take care of him so that he can receive a better education in Accra. His auntie sells lamps while his uncle works as a truck driver for a water company.
Prince is a very bright student and was named first in his class this year! His favorite subjects are math and sciences. In the future, he hopes to become an engineer and work for the Nestle company. Beyond the books, Prince enjoys playing soccer. We love Prince and cannot imagine our GEC family without his bright smile and fun-loving spirit. |
Richard Arkoh
How you can help- For $500/year or $42/month, you will support sending Richard to school, paying for books, tuition, extra class fees, food, school supplies, housing essentials, family support, and mentoring. This donation will change the course of Richard’s life, pushing him to one day reach his goal of becoming a soldier and leader in his own community.
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Richard was born in Bobekuma in the Eastern Region of Ghana. Richard’s family moved to Accra in hopes of a better life outside of the village. The family had very little money so was forced to moved to an area called Sweduro this is a well known slum in Accra that has a large amount of violence and drugs. Richard lived their with his mother, father and four siblings. Richard’s mother and father both sell second hand clothes and were not able to attend school themselves.
Richard’s neighborhood became worse overtime. Due to the level of drugs, violence and finance troubles, Richard’s parents had him stop schooling for two years. Richard’s parents were desperate for a better life for their son so they sent him to live with his uncle in a better area. Richard’s uncle graciously took Richard in and began raising him as his own son. Richard’s uncle is a weaver who does everything that he can to ensure that Richard is receiving an education. There is often no money in the house for extra things so Richard must walk the hour and a half to school and not take money with him for food. Richard is determined about his education and never complains because he knows that with education comes a better life. |
Ramatu Abrahim Ramatu was born in Paga in the Northern Region of Ghana, where there is a serious lack of access to education for girls. When Ramatu was two years old, she came to Accra to live with her auntie so she could get a quality education. Last year, her younger sister Lukaya also came to Accra to live with Ramatu and her auntie. Together, they live with their aunt and five cousins. Her auntie sells porridge by the roadside and is struggling financially to support her children and nieces from one small income.
Ramatu is now going into class 5. Her favorite subject in school is French. Ramatu’s teacher noticed how smart she was and nominated her for GEC this year. “Education is important to me because I want to grow up and become a good person. I hope to take care of my mother, cousins and auntie. GEC can help me do this.” For fun, Ramatu enjoys playing with friends, running and spending time with her cousins. |
How you can help- For $500 for the year, or $42.00 a month you will be able to support sending Ramatu to school, paying her books, tuition, extra class fees, food, school supplies, housing essentials, family support, mentoring feeds and on-going support. This donation will fundamentally change the course of Ramatu’s life pushing her to one day reach her goal of becoming a teacher and a leader who effects wide scale change within her own community.
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Sadik Anponsah
How you can help- For $500 for the year, or $42.00 a month you will be able to support sending Sadik to school, paying his books, tuition, extra class fees, food, school supplies, housing essentials, family support, mentoring feeds and on-going support. This donation will fundamentally change the course of Sadik’s life pushing him to one day reach his goal of being a doctor and leader in his community.
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Meet Sadik Aponsah! Sadik was born in the Eastern Region, but relocated to Accra when he was four so that his father could find a job. Currently, he lives with his parents, sister, and two brothers. To support the family, his father works three jobs and his mother sells bagged water on the street.
Sadik is curious about the world and people around him. He is often referred to as “the man with the questions” because he is always pursuing knowledge and asking questions, both in and out of the classroom. In school, Sadik loves math and science! In the future, Sadik wants to be a surgeon so that he can help those who are sick. We asked Sadik why he felt that education was important, and he responded, “Education is important to me because everywhere you go, you need to use your education. I need my family to become great and take care of me so when I grow up I can also take care of them. I am excited to be in GEC because GEC is making me learn hard, and I am very proud. I’m glad to have my education paid for so I can become a doctor one day.” |
Sheila MakuviaMeet Sheila Makuvia! Originally from the Northern Region, her family moved to Accra in hopes of better educational and employment opportunities. Upon moving to Accra, Sheila’s family still struggled to make ends meet. Sheila now lives with her auntie, uncle, and three cousins in a one room structure. Her auntie works as a cleaner, while her uncle works as a carpenter. It is difficult for her auntie to take care of all four kids in the house, but Sheila has been a leader in the family, helping her auntie in taking care of her younger cousins.
Sheila is a brilliant student and her teachers highly recommended her for our program! She is also a competitive go-getter who is not afraid to stand up for herself. She loves to run and can often be found fearlessly winning races against the boys after school! In the future, she hopes to attend University and become a doctor. Regarding GEC, Sheila remarks, “The day I found out about my scholarship was the happiest day of my life. Education has been important to me because I want to be a good person in the future…I want people who donate to know that I will take this seriously, behave very well and work hard to get good marks. ” |
For $500 for the year, or $42.00 a month you will be able to support sending Shelia to school, paying her books, tuition, extra class fees, food, school supplies, housing essentials, family support, mentoring feeds and on-going support. This donation will fundamentally change the course of Shelia’s life pushing her to one day reach his goal of being a doctor and becoming a leader who effects wide scale change within her own community.
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