Profile
Meet Oral Ofori …an information and communication consultant based in Washington DC
It’s an honor to speak with you today. Why don’t you give us some details about you and your story, how did you get to where you are today?
Oral Ofori is my name and I’m an information and communication research consultant with over a decade of experience working in the Washington DC metro area.
TheAfricanDream LLC is the name of my firm, it consults on matters relating to Sports, Events, Entertainment, Diplomacy, Branding, Nonprofit, and Education among others.
A personal and professional objective is to positively bridge the gap between Africa and the rest of the world by building progressive connections through the Diaspora. My work interests also include ghostwriting, video/text/3D creation and editing, book review/publishing, and more, learn more here: wikipedia.org/wiki/Oral_Ofori
I’m sure your success has not come easily. What challenges have you had to overcome along the way?
I have had to overcome simple challenges like not being able to eat the kinds of foods I grew up eating in Ghana because I am now living in America. A remedy I created involved improvising by using what I have available here in America in the kitchen to create the best culinary opportunities for myself, this is because you are what you eat and if you don’t respect your diet it might ruin your life.
Racism or being wrongly profiled or unfairly treated based on your skin pigmentation is a constant battle an immigrant like myself fights. In situations like these, I have always learned to first know my history and purpose and speak truth to what I believe in, and not let any form of oppression make me deny who I am or what I intend to become. Sometimes ignorance becomes a dangerous tool that people use aware or intentionally so we must [really] know about the culture we work and network with as this would help you know how to behave in situations that challenge you.
Finally, it’s very easy these days to neglect your spiritual and mental wellbeing. My solutions to this came when I realized you cannot pour out of an empty cup and I say this because you need to make sure that you as a person are spiritually and mentally well catered to, and the best person to bring your spiritual and mental needs is yourself.
Let’s talk about the work you do. What do you specialize in and why should someone work with you over the competition?
I provide advice on securing Africa-related media content from trusted and reliable media organizations and practitioners on and off the continent. I also help promote Africa news and provide Search Engine Optimization services, Social Media Management, 3D Artistry, Research, Investigative reporting, Wikipedia update and building, photography, copywriting/editing, ghostwriting management, and Promotion of talents, event organizing, and more. We also do Interpretation and translation of Ghanaian and other African languages, Voiceovers, Web building and Management, Software Development, and more.
What sets me apart from others is that I tell the stories of Africa and Africans from an African perspective in a way that is devoid of unnecessary, accidental, or ill-intended adulteration. By doing so, I always seek to project and share Africa’s stories in a way that makes them more candid and appealing to the African and also leaves the non-African more enlightened and informed about the continent.
Since 2009-2021 I have maintained a healthy working relationship with over a dozen Embassies in the Washington DC metro area and multinational institutions that seek the advancement of humanity globally.
What’s your best piece of advice for readers who desire to find success in their life?
First of all, I had to learn to accept the fact that not everyone was going to understand me for who I am, based on this I learned to be open-minded and how to make friends even though I was an introvert,
As a person, you need to be welcoming and accepting of others and their opinions even if you don’t believe in them. However, you also need to learn the type of friendships and systems you get involved with because your friends and environment have a huge potential to determine your future.
I also realize that sometimes you have to do certain things that you’re not comfortable with and when it comes to that point for me I would do whatever so long as it is not illegal and it is not against my spiritual beliefs, this has helped me appreciate that fact that I don’t need a high horse. If you ask me I will say knowledge of where you immediately stand and the history of that place or situation is key. But don’t allow yourself to be trampled on because sometimes you have to be humble and so while being humble also be on the lookout to protect your dignity.
Stand up for yourself and speak your truth no matter how difficult the situation that you might find yourself in might be. This is because the positive energy you give yourself might be the only thing that carries you in alone in times of difficulty.
What’s next for you?
As a digital storyteller, I’ve been involved in an animation movie project with Studio Parables and Animation Africa of Ghana since October of 2020. We are almost done and due for release before the end of 2021. However, due to covid restrictions, I have been stalled.
As far as future projections are concerned I will need help by way of financial assistance or partnership so I can complete and share the movie (trailer in link) with the world and also produce other feature animation and feature movies to share with the world about the beauty of Africa as the cradle of mankind. Learn more about this project at bit.ly/donate28th
I also hope to publish my book before the end of 2021 and to help others do the same that can not afford to by expanding my network and collaboration with people and expanding my business across the United States and into Africa to tell stories on a larger scale through movies and writing. I believe there’s power in the film/written media as tools for positively changing the African narrative.
Finally, how can people connect with you if they want to learn more?
Find me on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram as oralofori or visit my business website at www.theafricandream.co
Source: https://www.wtnzfox43.com/story/44669883/meet-oral-ofori
Profile
Juventus Duorinaah, Ghana’s first deaf Lawyer
In a landmark moment for Ghana’s legal landscape, Juventus Duorinaah Esq., has etched his name in history as the country’s first lawyer with a hearing impairment.
His journey from a humble background to breaking barriers in the legal profession serves as a powerful inspiration for countless individuals in the disability community, proving that determination and resilience can defy societal expectations and create pathways to success.
For Juventus, the recognition as Ghana’s first deaf lawyer feels surreal.
“It feels like a dream,” he reflects, acknowledging the stereotypes surrounding deafness and the humble background from which he hails.
Juventus’ passion for law sparked in 2008 while seeking admission to the University of Ghana (UG). Although he initially faced challenges due to the nature of the application process, the help of his older brother and his determined spirit led him to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree in 2012, followed by a Master of Laws at Cardiff University in 2014.
His passion for the study of law became highly intense when he had to study alongside qualified lawyers from several jurisdictions, even though he did not have a legal background. Here, he faced the unique challenge of studying without sign language interpreters, relying instead on a palantypist to transcribe lectures.
Juventus’ role model was his professor and mentor, Professor Luke Clement, who profoundly inspired him in shaping his understanding of law and human rights.
He remembers Prof. Thomas Stephens from the University of Ghana School Of Law, who inspired him with his way of dressing, in-depth knowledge of the law and engagement with students.
He recounts the enormous challenges he encountered during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, when lectures moved online, and Dr Stephen’s tremendous support to ensure things moved quickly and smoothly for him.
“I also had the chance to have a few classes with the Dean himself, Prof. Raymond Atuguba. He taught the course such that some of us never felt scared as other lecturers made the course,’ he recalled.
Juventu’s academic journey was fraught with challenges, particularly in communication.
The year 2007 was the last time he studied with deaf peers. He was often the only deaf person in his classes throughout the following years of his education, which made interaction with peers difficult.
Despite these hurdles, he remained high-spirited, studying late into the night and seeking help from kind classmates when necessary.
Reflecting on his academic experience at UG, he connected his affection for the university to his older brother, who is also an alumnus. He felt inspired to be a student of the premier university, saying he would choose the University of Ghana any time, any day, if given the chance to further his studies or work.
The University Of Ghana School Of Law, along with its Dean, Professor Raymond Atuguba, the Director of Legal Education of the Ghana School of Law, Yaw Bramiah Oppong, and his capable team, including the Registrar and Deputy Registrar of the Ghana School of Law and the Office for Students with Special Needs (UG), made significant contributions to his journey.
Prof. Atuguba acknowledged Juventus’ achievement as evidence of the university’s commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
Commenting on how the school accommodated his special needs, Prof. Atugugba explained that ‘In the case of Juventus, we worked closely with him to understand and address his special needs, ensuring he had access to the teaching and learning resources in the appropriate formats that would support his academic journey.
Professor Atuguba noted that Juventus’s journey is just beginning, and the future holds promise for him and the many lives he aims to touch along the way.
Juventus’s close friend, Ida Esi McOwusu Esq., described her first encounter with Juventus as ‘intriguing.’ “My first meeting with Juventus was in class, where he sat right in front of me in first year,” Ida reveals. She was intrigued and wanted to find out more about him, especially how Juventus navigated his way to this level. “I got closer and we became friends from there,” she remarked.
Mr Francis Kweku Essel, Juventus’ interpreter, shed light on the primary challenges he faced in carrying out his job, particularly the complex nature of legal terminology and concepts. This validates Ida’s comment on the interpreters’ lack of legal background as a challenge Lawyer Duorinaah encountred.
Juventus dreams of becoming a judge and aims to enhance justice delivery while serving as a role model for young people with disabilities.
He is currently mentoring a group of young deaf students interested in pursuing law, hoping to pave the way for future generations. What’s next for Lawyer Juventus? His next step is to complete his pupilage, after which he can decide further his legal career.
Profile
Dr. Christopher Baasongti Beyere …A visionary leader who triumphs through adversity
DR. Christopher Baasongti Beyere, the Member of Parliament-elect for Techiman South Constituency, is a trailblazing leader whose journey to political prominence is as inspiring as his contributions to health and education.
A man of resilience, intellect, and service, Dr. Beyere’s story exemplifies the triumph of determination and commitment over adversity.
A Multifaceted Leader with Transformative Achievements
Dr. Beyere’s professional and academic accomplishments are vast and impactful. He is a PhD holder in Global Health from Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, where his research on motivation policies for Ghanaian health workers reshaped staff development strategies.
A man of interdisciplinary expertise, he also holds an MSc in International Health from Brandeis University, an MA in International Human Resource Management from Manchester Metropolitan University, and a BSc in Information Technology from Methodist University.
His academic journey culminated with an LLB from the University College of Science, Arts, and Education, the Gambia Law School, Banjul, making him a barrister and solicitor of the Supreme Court of The Gambia, called to the Bar in November 2024.
Dr. Beyere’s work in the health sector has transformed Ghana’s healthcare landscape.
As Executive Secretary of the Health Training Institutions Secretariat, he spearheaded numerous initiatives, including upgrading post-basic programs to degree and master’s levels, introducing male midwifery training, and establishing the “Best Health Tutor Award” to motivate educators.
His efforts also led to the construction of a 75-bedroom guesthouse for principals of nursing training schools, showcasing his dedication to improving infrastructure and capacity for education.
In his role as Vice President of the University College of Science, Arts, and Education in Sunyani, Dr. Beyere has continued to champion educational innovation, ensuring that academic and non-academic functions align with the institution’s mission to nurture future leaders.
The Political Journey: Resilience and Triumph
Dr. Beyere’s political career has been marked by both challenges and victories. In the 2020 parliamentary election, his initial bid to represent Techiman South faced fierce resistance.
The election was fraught with controversy, culminating in a narrow defeat to Martin Kwaku Adjei-Mensah Korsah of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who polled 49,682 votes against Dr. Beyere’s 49,205. The results were contested, leading to a protracted court case that added to the emotional toll of the loss.
However, Dr. Beyere’s resilience never wavered. With renewed vigor, he returned to the political arena in 2024, determined to serve his people. This time, he secured a decisive victory, polling 44,986 votes across 282 polling stations, surpassing his perennial opponent, Martin Kwaku Adjei-Mensah Korsah, who garnered 43,730 votes.
His triumph was a testament to his unwavering commitment to the people of Techiman South, who recognized his vision and trusted his leadership.
A Leader of Compassion and Vision
Dr. Beyere’s political success is rooted in his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. During his time at the Gambia Law School in Banjul, he was beloved by his colleagues for his humility and sense of camaraderie. These qualities have endeared him to his constituents, who see in him a leader committed to their welfare.
Beyond his political and professional achievements, Dr. Beyere has consistently demonstrated a passion for empowering others. His initiatives in education and healthcare, coupled with his international collaborations, underscore his dedication to creating opportunities and driving sustainable development.
A Future of Hope and Progress
As he takes his place in Parliament, Dr. Beyere is poised to bring transformative leadership to Techiman South. His vision for the constituency includes advancing healthcare, education, and infrastructural development while fostering a sense of unity and purpose among his people.
Dr. Christopher Baasongti Beyere’s journey—from overcoming electoral challenges to becoming a symbol of hope and progress—is a shining example of what perseverance and dedication can achieve. With his wealth of experience, both locally and internationally, he stands ready to champion the aspirations of his constituents and contribute to Ghana’s growth.
