ShaQ Express Named Postal and Courier Company of the Year at the 33rd CIMG Awards

ShaQ Express, a technology startup that is 100% Ghanaian-owned, has been recognized as the Postal and Courier Service Company of the Year with a marketing focus at the 33rd Chartered Institute of Marketing, Ghana (CIMG) awards. ShaQ Express, a trailblazer in the postal and courier sectors, has emerged victorious over its competitors to claim several esteemed awards. During the awards ceremony held over the weekend, the company was presented with a certificate and a citation in recognition of its outstanding achievements. The event drew major players from a diverse range of industries to celebrate the marketing efforts aimed at propelling the country’s economic growth. ShaQ Express’s exceptional contributions and innovative practices have transformed the postal and courier industries, cementing its position as a leader in the field. According to the citation, the company received the prestigious award in recognition of its excellent strategic marketing efforts, which ranged from marketing insights to the efficient formulation of marketing mix programs that contributed to the creation of market value and thus produced excellent results. Managing Director Anthony Owusu-Ansah expressed his pride in the recognition of the young company by a prominent organization such as the CIMG. The honor serves as a testament to the hard work and dedication of the ShaQ Express team in achieving its marketing goals. READ NEXT ON: PRESEC Wins 2022 SHS Moot Court Competition

PRESEC Wins 2022 SHS Moot Court Competition

The Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (Presec-Legon), has emerged winner of the third edition of the Ghana Secondary Schools Moot Court competition held on October 29, 2022, at the Supreme Court. They beat competition from 15 schools, including St Francis Xavier Minor Seminary, Ola Girls’ SHS, Alpha Beta Christian College, Aburi Girls’ SHS, and Accra Academy. Other schools that participated were Klo Agogo SHS, Labone SHS, Legacy Girls College, Mfantsiman Girls, Achimota School, and West Africa SHS. Presec-Legon received a trophy, certificates, and a cash prize of ¢2,000 for winning the contest, while Legacy Girls’ College and the Achimota School took the second and third places respectively. The competition organized by the University of Ghana School of Law is part of efforts to help the students develop their knowledge, understanding, and application of the 1992 Constitution. This year’s edition was held under the theme, ‘Enhancing Civic Participation and Knowledge of our Constitution Amongst Young People for Personal Development and Nation Building.’ Source: MyJoyOnline READ NEXT ON: Church of Pentecost Constructs Prison Reformation Centre

How the famous Nogokpo was founded

Nogokpo

Nogokpo is a small village along the Trans-West African Coastal Highway in the Ketu South Municipality of Ghana’s Volta Region. Nogokpo was founded by Torgbui Saba. He migrated from Agbozume Sukladzi and was one of the brave war captains of the Somey State. Saba’s ancestors originated from Ningo and were displaced by the Akwamu wars. To strengthen himself spiritually for war, he embarked on a spiritual journey to Dahomey and came back with the Yewe god of thunder similar to the Shango cult of the Yoruba or Thor of the ancient Scandinavians. Saba was forced to relocate to Nogokpo, which was then his farmstead, due to a disagreement with the residents of Agbozume. Nogokpo is derived from the Ewe language — “E: nor: ge : kpo: a ?” meaning “Will you live here peacefully or crime-free?”That was the question Saba asked anyone who asked to live near him in his new location. This is a warning about his god not tolerating vice. There is an alternative narration:Ewe language: Ma ble nye nua nogoe kpo.Let me tie (bundle) my stuff without troubles. This narration is about his exodus from Agbozume with his god. It is renowned for having a traditional and religious shrine. Location of Nogokpo READ NEXT ON: Lakeside Marina Park: Ideal Place for Families

Church of Pentecost Constructs Prison Reformation Centre

The Church of Pentecost

The Church of Pentecost has constructed a new facility called the Inmates Skills Acquisition and Reformation Centre in Nsawam, Eastern Region, Ghana. The aim of this facility is to reform prisoners and help them become productive members of society. The facility is fully furnished and has the capacity to hold 320 inmates. It includes four dormitories, an infirmary, a visitors lounge, an administration block, an ICT lab, a tailoring workshop, a carpentry workshop, a fully furnished chapel, a soccer pitch, and a volleyball pitch, as well as CCTV installations and other amenities. This is the second correctional center built by the church, following the construction of a similar facility in Ejura, Ashanti Region, in May 2021. The project began two years ago, and two other facilities are currently under construction in Damongo and Obuasi. During the handover ceremony, the President of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, commended The Church of Pentecost and its Chairman, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, for their leadership and commitment to social intervention projects, such as decongesting prisons and improving living conditions for inmates. He also mentioned the church’s previous collaboration with the government during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the church donated its facility at Gomoa Feteh to the government as a holding center for COVID-19 patients. The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, explained that the facility was built to address overcrowding in Ghana’s prisons, which currently hold 14,957 inmates as of October 2022, far above their maximum capacity of 9,850. He stated that the Prison Reformation Centre was a direct response to the biblical admonition in Hebrews 13:3 to “remember those in prison.” The Ejura Prison Camp project, constructed by the church in 2021, is already yielding results, with 36 inmates currently being trained in different trades and 40 more enrolled in literacy education. The church is also paying fines for prisoners with default warrants and plans to release and re-orientate them towards productive lives. Apart from these initiatives, The Church of Pentecost is also building police stations in communities to enhance security and providing potable water in deprived areas. A police station and a 20-bed health facility are ready for commissioning in Kawampe and Abesewa, in the Savannah and Ashanti regions, respectively. READ NEXT ON: Abena Amoah, Appointed Managing Director of the Ghana Stock Exchange

How to survive and thrive in these difficult economic times

Survive

Many of us have had a difficult financial year in 2022. Some argue that the high number of home mortgage defaults and foreclosures, rising unemployment rates, declining stock market prices and home values, multiple banks and investment firm failures, a credit crunch, and increased costs for necessities such as food, heating oil, and gasoline have resulted in a “perfect tornado.” What are your options? Protect yourself and take financial precautions, just as you would in the event of a true tornado. The following are 5 “tried and true” financial planning and investment recommendations that can be used at any time, but especially now, to help you survive and thrive in today’s difficult economic climate. 5 “Tried and True” Tips To Help You Survive And Thrive Learning how to live frugally can help you get by during this difficult economic period. READ NEXT ON: Time management and productivity tips

ROAD USER LAWS 101: 5 Traffic Crimes relating to Zebra Crossings

Zebra Crossing

A Zebra Crossing is a type of pedestrian crossing. Pedestrian is derived from the Latin word ‘foot’. It describes people utilizing the street by walking or running as long as they are not traveling in a vehicle, motorcycle, or bicycle. In Ghana, pedestrian crossing popularly called ‘Zebra Crossing’ is defined as a marked section of a road where pedestrians can cross the road safely designated by appropriate road traffic signs. Laws that govern pedestrian usage of roads began with the promulgation of the Kansas City ordinance in 1912. The first legislation in Ghana to directly mention pedestrian crossing was the Road Traffic Offences Regulation, 1974 (LI 952). Currently, Road Traffic Regulation, 2012 (LI 2180) governs pedestrian crossing. Zebra Crossings Regulations Always remember that the pedestrian has the right of way over an approaching motor vehicle at the pedestrian crossing. Also, 1 penalty point equals GHc 12.00. READ NEXT ON: Meditation and mindfulness practices

Abena Amoah, Appointed Managing Director of the Ghana Stock Exchange

Abena Amoah

Ms. Abena Amoah has been appointed Managing Director of the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) by the GSE Council, effective November 24, 2022. Mr. Ekow Afedzie, the Exchange’s current Managing Director, will retire on November 23, 2022, after 32 years of distinguished and transformative service. Ms. Amoah’s experience ranges from stock market listing and trading to mergers and acquisitions advisory, investment research, asset management, private placement of equity, debt, and hybrid instruments, extensive infrastructure project development, business start-ups and incubation, public education on investment and financial matters, and capital market development. She was named Deputy Managing Director of the Exchange on August 1, 2020. She has worked in the capital markets for the past 24 years and is well-known for her technical knowledge, business acumen, outstanding professionalism, and integrity. She previously worked for BlackIvy Group LLC, Renaissance Group (where she was CEO of NewWorld Renaissance Securities Ltd. and Head of Investment Banking & Finance in West Africa (ex-Nigeria) for Renaissance Capital), and Strategic African Securities Ltd., where she was Executive Director. She attended Stanford Graduate School of Business, Harvard Business School, and the University of Denver’s Daniels College of Business to further her academic and leadership studies. She also holds a diploma from the University of Ghana Business School. Ms. Amoah takes over at a time when the Exchange is implementing two major programs: a three-year Strategic Plan to transition from a frontier market to an emerging market, and the Exchange’s demutualization, which will result in a group of related companies, including a limited liability company to manage market operations and a company limited by guarantee to undertake public education and other market development activities. Her previous experience and current roles at the Exchange will help her implement these programs. The GSE Council wishes her success in her new role and fruitful tenure in office. Ayeeko Ms. Abena Amoah! READ NEXT ON: Musician Becca graduates from UPSA with a 3.92 GPA and is named Valedictorian

Sophia C. Apenkro and 3 others selected to be UNESCO RSSR Campaign Ambassadors

UNESCO

Sophia C. Apenkro, an Ace Digital Marketer and Brand Consultant, has been chosen along with three others to lead the UNESCO Recommendations on #Science & Scientific Researchers Campaign. This campaign will focus on science and academic institutions to raise awareness and support for Science’s relevance to SDG challenges. UNESCO Recommendation on Science and Scientific Researchers (RS|SR) â€“ 10 key areas The campaign will promote science as a common good and advocate for inclusive and non-discriminatory work conditions, access to education, and employment in science. It recognizes that any scientific conduct is subject to universal human rights standards and emphasizes the importance of balancing the freedoms, rights, and responsibilities of researchers. The UNESCO Recommendations also outline the significance of scientific integrity and ethical codes of conduct for science and research and their technical applications. It emphasizes the vital importance of human capital for a sound and responsible science system and highlights the role of Member States in creating an enabling environment for science and research. Over the next few weeks, the chosen ambassadors will utilize their social media platforms to enhance public engagement by shedding light on and dissecting the ten key areas of the RS|SR. The campaign will also feature talks, presentations, online panel discussions, and training sessions aimed at educating the public. READ NEXT ON: Top LinkedIn Welcome Messages To Connect With

Top LinkedIn Welcome Messages To Connect With

LinkedIn

Your LinkedIn opening message is more important than you may think. It is the first impression you give as a professional. In the real world, first impressions are everything, and LinkedIn is no exception. Consider this…What would you say if you walked into a meeting room for the first time? How would you introduce yourself, and how would you dress? What makes using a digital platform like LinkedIn any different? Personable & Approachable Being friendly once connected is critical for every message. However, if you are personal, such as asking how they are, expressing gratitude for their interest in you, and so on…you will automatically make them feel welcome. The sooner you can get someone used to you, the better. Of course, don’t stray too far from the topic of your choice, as this can lead to confusion. Confusion can lead to awkwardness and, in general, poor communication, which you should avoid at all costs. The “Peace” Gift Offering something is another great way to pique someone’s interest in a connection. Whether it’s a service you can offer, advice on something, links, or whatever, it will make them feel like you genuinely care. It also demonstrates that you are, of course, giving, which can lead to them doing the same. Although it isn’t your priority to get something in return, it can add to your friendliness and help you win the conversation. Questioning A great way to get a conversation going is to ask a question about the topic. This will not only engage the other person in conversation, but it will also engage them in conversation about the topic you truly want to discuss with them. This eliminates small talk and is intended for those who want to get right down to business. But use caution when implementing this strategy. For example, make an effort to be friendly at first, and perhaps ask them how they are, or something along those lines. You should be wary of being direct because not everyone will appreciate it. Confirmation With this message, please check to see if there is anything else you can do to assist them. This approach is similar to the peace offering but not as direct. With this method, you are being less formal and simply checking in on the individual to see if there are any additional services available beyond what has already been established. Linkedin has millions of users, so you will undoubtedly connect with many people during your course, so the first impression you make is critical. But, once again, be cautious in your approaches. Credit: Scott Jones REA NEXT ON: How to Use Social Media Effectively Without Wasting Time

Musician Becca graduates from UPSA with a 3.92 GPA and is named Valedictorian

Rebecca Acheampong, popularly known as Becca, a renowned musician, and actress, has graduated from the University of Professional Studies with an impressive FCGPA of 3.92. She has been a prominent figure in the music industry for over fifteen years and recently emerged as the Valedictorian and Best Graduating Student in the Master of Arts in Brands & Communications Management program. In her valedictory speech, she encouraged others to believe in themselves and stated that nothing is impossible if one is willing to try. She dedicated her award to every girl and woman, inspiring them to have faith in their abilities. Becca has previously studied Child Care Education at Croydon College in the UK and Operations and Project Management at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA). She is an old girl from Wesley Girls High School in Cape Coast and has won over 70 awards throughout her illustrious career. Becca’s Journey as a Musician Becca, born Rebecca Akosua Acheampomaa Acheampong on August 15, 1984, is a Ghanaian singer, songwriter, and actress. She first gained fame as a participant on TV3’s Mentor, a yearly singing competition, during its second season. Becca’s debut album Sugar was released in 2007 and received five nominations at the 2008 Ghana Music Awards, including Record of the Year for the song “You Lied to Me.” Her second studio album, Time 4 Me, was released on May 16, 2013, and featured collaborations with 2face Idibia, MI, King Ayisoba, Trigmatic, Jay Storm, and Akwaboah. The album was certified 2x platinum in Ghana. She has won several awards, including a Kora Award, a National Youth Achievers Award, four Ghana Music Awards, and three 4Syte TV Music Video Awards. She also headlined the Girl Talk concert in 2013 and was ranked 94th on E.tv Ghana’s list of the 100 most influential people in Ghana that year. In March 2021, 3Music Network recognized Becca as one of the Top 30 Most Influential Women in Music. She has collaborated with Hugh Masakela and MI Abaga, among others. READ NEXT ON: Meet Naziha Gombilla Amin, First UPSA Law Student to graduate with First Class Honours