Meet Naziha Gombilla Amin, First UPSA Law Student to graduate with First Class Honours
Naziha, a native of Tamale in Ghana’s Northern Region, made history as the first female to graduate with first-class honors from the UPSA Law School and the first female to graduate with first-class honors from the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA). With a 3.72 FCGPA, she was also named valedictorian of her UPSA Bachelor of Laws class of 2022. In 2017, Naziha graduated as the best student in History, Government, and Literature from Accra Girls High School and later enrolled at the UPSA Law School, where she used her skills and talents to serve in various capacities. Naziha was involved in student leadership and activism. In 2021, she was awarded the Federation of Africa Law Students (FALAS) leadership icon award in recognition of her outstanding leadership role and contributions to the growth and development of African law students. In 2021, she also represented the UPSA Law School at the Law Challenge Competition. “There were times it got tough. I thought I would resit certain courses but giving up never crossed my mind. I had started it, so I had to complete it. I had to make my parents proud”, she said on Law Chat in an interview with UPSA Law School. Naziha is passionate about Youth Leadership and is the immediate Vice-President of the UPSA Law Students Union (LSU). Naziha, in an interview, said; “I would advise law students, particularly first year law students to master the art of briefing cases. But even before briefing these cases, they should have read the full case and avoid relying on headnotes. By doing so, they not only appreciate the judgement but they build on their writing skills which is very relevant for answering problem based questions”. She aspires to be an International Energy Professional and Lecturer within the next five years. Her hobbies include photography, swimming, horseback riding, and learning new languages. READ NEXT ON: Monica Nancy Candny, First Class Maritime Engineering Graduate
How to Use Social Media Effectively Without Wasting Time
People are spending an increasing amount of time on social media, with office workers wasting an average of two hours per day scrolling through socials. That alone represents a significant amount of squandered man-hours and revenue. But is your company spending too much time on social media? Without a doubt, social media has transformed the world of marketing for both large and small businesses. It enables businesses to reach their customers on a much larger scale than before, and it is an excellent way to raise brand awareness and promote new products. It also makes it easier than ever for businesses to interact with new and existing customers on a more personal level. Despite these advantages, it is far too easy to focus all of your marketing efforts on social media at the expense of other tried and tested channels. Knowing your customer base, why you’re on social media in the first place, what you’re using it for, and which channels are best suited to your business are all questions you should ask to avoid wasting time on ineffective social media campaigns. Why do you use social media? The unsettling truth is that, like the pouty teen posting selfies on Instagram, businesses frequently use social media to feel good about themselves. Posting about business successes and awards strokes the collective ego of the company and provides them with a nice, gleaming online presence to be proud of. If you suspect that vanity is your primary motivation for maintaining a social media presence, you should reconsider your marketing strategy and determine whether social media has any real impact on your business. You should have more compelling reasons to be on social media. These could include increasing brand awareness and strengthening customer relationships. Social media is also a great way to drive traffic to your website through actions like post boosts and strategically placed CTAs (calls to action). If you haven’t given much thought to why your company is on social media, it’s probably time you did! Do You Have a Social Media Marketing Strategy? The key to avoiding wasting time on social media is to develop a well-thought-out social media strategy. A social media strategy allows you to see how social media can help your business while also ensuring that your social media presence is meaningful and productive. Without one, you will most likely be wasting time and energy on social media with little to show for it. When creating a plan, there are several factors to consider, such as; Credit: Scott Jones READ NEXT ON: Using Social Media to Grow Your Brand
Lakeside Marina Park: Ideal Place for Families
Located in the beautiful Lakeside Estates of Accra, Ghana, Lakeside Marina Park has been providing visitors with an unforgettable experience since 2003. The park boasts a wide range of activities that cater to different interests and age groups, making it an excellent choice for families, friends, and groups of all sizes. For adventure seekers, the Marina Obstacle Course is a must-try. It is a challenging yet exciting obstacle course that gives groups the opportunity to compete with each other. The course is designed to test physical strength, agility, and teamwork. Participants will have to overcome various obstacles, including walls, ropes, and nets, to make it to the finish line. It’s an exhilarating experience that visitors will surely remember. For those who enjoy fishing, the Recreational Fishing activity is perfect for families or even professionals. Visitors can catch a fish and have it grilled on-site or bring their own fish meal and kit. It’s a great way to enjoy the calm and serene surroundings of Lake Kalmoni while trying to catch the “big one.” Each visitor is allowed to catch one fish per person, which makes the activity more exclusive and personalized. For those who prefer a more leisurely activity, the Motorized Swinging Boat is a fun ride that rocks like a boat. Visitors can also walk for fun on the newest addition, the Canopy Walkway, which offers an exciting bird’s eye view of the park and its surroundings. The park also has a Children’s Playground that is fitted with child-friendly and exciting playing equipment for all kids. It’s a safe and fun environment for kids to play and make new friends while parents can relax and enjoy the park’s other amenities. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy a 5-a-side soccer pitch, Volleyball, and Tug-of-Peace line, among other sporting activities. The park’s expansive grounds offer plenty of space for visitors to enjoy and participate in various sports activities. Lakeside Marina Park is known for its exceptional customer service, which is provided by a team of dedicated staff. Visitors can expect a warm welcome and assistance from the park’s staff, who are always ready to help and ensure that visitors have a great time. READ NEXT ON: The Beauty of Mole National Park
Using Social Media to Grow Your Brand
In today’s digital age, social media is an invaluable resource for any brand. It’s rare to come across a brand that doesn’t have an online presence, and many products and services can be found with a simple Google search. So you’ve got an idea and a desire to see it grow, but where do you begin? If you don’t know where to go on social media, here are some tips to help you grow your brand on social media and get seen by the people who really matter! Create a Strategy A dream is nothing more than an idea without a plan. Sit down and think about your brand’s strategy and the elements you’ll need to succeed (such as logos, heading photos, etc). Devise a strategy for each social media platform you intend to use and research how your competitors are faring. Before you create your own profiles, you can see what works and what doesn’t. If you approach social media marketing with a clear plan, you will be much better prepared. Social Media Strategy Guide Download a Social Media Guide. Your brand’s online presence is more important than ever. Learn how to effectively manage your community and reap the benefits of social media, from setting up the right social accounts for your business to creating high-performing marketing content. Are you looking for help from a social-first digital agency? Contact me to help you today! Brand Voice/Identity Before you begin marketing yourself on social media, you must first identify your brand voice. This establishes the tone for all future campaigns, and it’s critical that it remains consistent throughout your branding. To help you find your brand’s voice, consider the following factors and questions: Logo/Visuals In this day and age, anyone can create eye-catching logos and visuals for use on social media. Users can use free apps like Canva to find templates for everything from logos to flyers and even posts for each social media platform. If you’re feeling particularly inventive, you can always start with a blank canvas and Canva will assist you in finding the right elements to build your ideal vision. Utilize Various Sources Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter each have unique advantages. While Twitter favors shorter blocks of text, platforms such as LinkedIn thrive on longer, more in-depth posts. Instagram is a visual platform, and its IGTV feature allows you to create longer video content for users. If you want to focus on one type of social media when you’re first starting out, choose one (Facebook or Instagram are the better options) before branching out. Consistency Algorithms appreciate consistency. You’re more likely to bring traffic to your profiles and website if you stick to a schedule and post at times when you’re sure to get more engagement. If you’re having trouble maintaining a consistent schedule, consider using a Content Management System (CMS) such as HubSpot or SproutSocial. These systems make it simple to plan, create, publish, and even track the analytics of your online campaigns. Improve Search Engine Ranking Search Engine Optimization (SEO) can be perplexing at first. Social media can (and will) help your brand if you continue to post relevant content about it. By including these keywords in your posts and on your website, you can increase the number of clicks that lead to leads and customers. Be a human being Stop attempting to sell people your product or service and instead connect with them as people. By telling a compelling story and engaging your audience in meaningful ways, you’re allowing for natural engagement that will sell itself in the long run. People trust brands with which they can connect, and if they know a human being is responding to their comments or inquiries, you’ve got a customer for life. READ NEXT ON: Top LinkedIn Features You Should Start Using
My Philanthropy Journey
My Philanthropy Journey started five years ago when I founded THE SHREWD FOUNDATION to provide assistance to street children. The motivation behind this decision stemmed from a visit to the streets six years prior, during which I witnessed the heartbreaking circumstances that these children faced. As of July 13th, 2022, we have reached our 5-year anniversary, which has been characterized by both challenging and rewarding moments. Throughout our journey, I have been honored as the Young Female Philanthropist of the Year (2020), and our foundation has received several nominations for our charitable efforts. We have faced setbacks along the way, but we took a break to regroup and have returned with renewed strength. We are thrilled to have been nominated for NGO of the Year by Golden Ace and Leadership Awards, and we are counting on your continued support to help us win this accolade. We are immensely grateful for your unwavering support throughout our journey, and we look forward to continuing our efforts to improve the lives of street children. Thank you! READ NEXT ON: Christmas House Party
The Beauty of Mole National Park
Ghana’s largest wildlife sanctuary is Mole National Park, situated in the Savannah region at an elevation of 50 meters, covering 4,577 square kilometers. The park is home to various plant and mammal species and is known for its large elephant population. The park’s southern boundary is marked by a sharp escarpment, while the ephemeral Levi and Mole Rivers flow through it, leaving behind drinking holes during the dry season. The park’s entrance is accessed via the town of Larabanga, which was once a slave trade route and is home to the Larabanga mosque and other tourist attractions. Mole National Park is one of Ghana’s seven national parks and shares borders with 33 communities. The park is well-protected through a collaborative effort between its management and surrounding communities. Sustainable wildlife management is a priority, with the aim of generating revenue for the park. History of Mole National Park In 1958, the lands that now make up the park were set aside as a wildlife refuge, and in 1971, they were designated a national park after the small human population in the area was relocated. Despite its early establishment, the park has not undergone significant development as a tourist destination. The park’s funding as a protective area is inadequate, and there are concerns about poaching and sustainability, but the protection of resident antelope species has improved since its establishment. Scientists consider the park an important study area, as the absence of human population allows for long-term studies of relatively undisturbed sites compared to other densely populated areas of West Africa. For example, studies indicate that elephants in the park cause greater damage to economically important tree species such as Burkea africana and Butyrospermum paradoxum, the source of shea butter, compared to less important species. Recently, the park’s honey made from flowers has become the first fair-trade commodity in the region. Villagers nearby use traditional methods to harvest the honey, which is sold as a health and wellness supplement in the US through a partnership with a Utah-based company. The program was co-founded by Ashanti Chief Nana Kwasi Agyemang, who hopes to increase local interest in the honey and eventually export it to other African countries. Visitors to the park are advised to wear protective clothing during the rainy season and insect repellent throughout the year. Ghana is a lovely country with plenty of tourist attractions, and Mole National Park is a must-visit destination. READ NEXT ON: Yilo Krobo District’s Amazing Umbrella Rock
Google Chooses Ghana as the Location for its First AI research Lab in Africa
Google has opened a new AI research laboratory in Ghana’s capital city, Accra. The new office, located inside Stanbic Heights, Airport City in Accra, is the first in Africa to support Google’s AI Research Team. In 2018, Google announced plans to open its first Artificial Intelligence (AI) lab in Ghana to provide researchers with the necessary tools and opportunities to develop AI products to address a variety of problems across the continent. Ghana was named the second most peaceful country in Africa by the Global Peace Index Report in 2021. The West African country is home to the AfCFTA Secretariat, Twitter in Africa, and now Twitter in Africa. Google’s decision to open an AI research laboratory in Ghana is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it demonstrates the growing interest and investment in Africa’s tech industry, which has been expanding rapidly in recent years. By establishing a presence in Ghana, Google is positioning itself to tap into the continent’s young, tech-savvy population, who are eager to embrace new technologies and innovation. Secondly, Ghana’s reputation as a stable and peaceful country is a major drawcard for international investors looking to do business in Africa. The country’s political stability and low levels of corruption make it an attractive destination for companies seeking to establish a foothold on the continent. Thirdly, the establishment of Google’s AI lab in Ghana is expected to create new job opportunities for local talent, which could help to stem the brain drain that has plagued the continent for decades. By investing in the development of local talent, Google is not only helping to build a more skilled workforce but is also contributing to the growth of the broader African tech industry. Overall, the establishment of Google’s AI lab in Ghana is a positive development for both the country and the continent as a whole. As Africa continues to embrace digital technologies and innovation, it is likely that we will see more tech giants following Google’s lead and setting up shop in the region. READ NEXT ON: Avance Media releases list of top 30 Female Diplomats in Ghana
Take the next step in your people skills development with STSTC
Have you ever heard of Soft and Technical Skills Training Consult? Allow me to introduce you to this consult. Soft and Technical Skills Training Consult is a one-stop skills development consultancy that focuses on assisting individuals, business executives, and business owners in growing genuine businesses by providing world-class online self-paced corporate training with a focus on essential soft skills required in today’s business. The consult’s approach is open-minded, adaptable, and practical. As a result, this consult assists its learners and participants in reaching their full potential. Not only is the consult aiming to provide skills, but it is also dedicated to learning and is constantly striving to improve its abilities and skills to provide the best for learners. Soft and Technical Skills Training Consult believes in empowering its learners by providing skill-based, practical training programs with relevant case studies via online video training. The high-quality, skill-based video training programs created by industry experts focus on industry trends, and best practices and seek to make learners job-ready. I am a proud product of the online self-paced video courses offered by the Soft and Technical Skills Training Consult, and I would recommend it to anyone looking to improve their people skills. READ NEXT ON: Top LinkedIn Features You Should Start Using
The Power of Brand Advocacy: How to Convert Followers Into Fans
Employees or customers who support and share brand-related content are referred to as brand advocates. Brand advocates are frequently associated with the company. Individuals who value and support the brand may also be willing to publicly share and promote the brand’s values, philosophies, products, or services with others. In today’s digital business and society, brand advocacy is proving to be more powerful than marketing and advertising efforts, with up to 30% of internet users installing ad blockers. This is one of the reasons why spreading business content through brand advocates is a more effective way of increasing brand exposure and reputation. Credibility The more advocates a company has, the more credible it appears to the public. Positive reviews or individuals sharing their experiences with a company’s products or services provide new or potential customers with additional information about the company. Brand advocates’ perceptions and opinions about a business service are more credible than the company’s marketing campaigns. Individuals who are not affiliated with the business have a higher level of credibility when it comes to sharing honest, objective, and truthful experiences. Brand Trust Trust is essential for a company’s operations and the products or services it is attempting to sell. Brand success is highly unlikely if the public perceives a brand to be unreliable and untrustworthy. Customers are more likely to support businesses whose trust and reputation are based on the shared experiences of others. According to research, 88% trust other people’s reviews and personal experiences more than business advertisements. Reach The more people who talk about a topic in the public eye, the more people it will reach. When it comes to brand advocates and the trend of sharing views and opinions on social media, information has an exponential reach. The average Instagram or Facebook user is connected with over 600 other people. As a result, each advocate who shares content has the potential to reach at least 600 people. Identifying Brand Ambassadors Brand advocacy should be invested in by all businesses that want to expand their reach and share credible, trustworthy information with potential customers. Brand advocacy is a low-cost and effective method of acquiring customers and increasing positive brand exposure. How can businesses invest in brand advocacy as a powerful measure to improve business success? Finally, investing time and money in developing brand advocacy for your company can have a multiplicative effect on consumer reach. It also emphasizes and consolidates the brand’s value and philosophy. Organic measures to encourage individuals to support the business will ultimately improve overall market success. Brand advocacy is a chain reaction, and laying a good foundation for followers to support your business through digital platforms is critical for market power. Credit: Scott Jones READ NEXT ON: The Relevance of Brand Awareness
Top LinkedIn Features You Should Start Using
LinkedIn is fast becoming the go-to platform for businesses and brands looking to reach their target audience. In this article, we will explore some of the key LinkedIn features that you can leverage to enhance your professional profile and achieve your career goals. LinkedIn is no longer simply a professional social networking platform. It is now used to build credibility, interest, and trust, as well as to create a plausible network. Whether you are a job seeker, a business owner, or a professional looking to expand your network, this guide will provide you with valuable insights and tips to make the most of some LinkedIn features. Including web link to your profile LinkedIn now allows you to add website links directly to your contact information. What is the benefit of this? This not only makes your website much easier to find with a single click (as on Instagram), but you can also edit the text into an eye-catching call to action, encouraging people to click through to your website. There are numerous other ways to enhance your LinkedIn profile. Use relevant keywords and hashtags throughout your profile, as well as a clear and professional profile photo. It’s also a good idea to show some personality – don’t be afraid to discuss your accomplishments or anything you’re particularly proud of. You can even change the URL of your LinkedIn profile to something more personalized and relevant to what you do. Consider a catchy title for yourself, such as “social media stud” or “queen of design”! Participating in LinkedIn groups LinkedIn groups are an excellent way to discover and interact with relevant content and other professionals in your industry. These groups can also be used to share and showcase your content, as well as insightful comments and questions, which is great for engagement. You can gain credibility, find quality leads, and share in-depth insights by sharing content through LinkedIn groups. The key is to find groups that are relevant to your industry and avoid spamming them with your content. Before you start promoting your content in a new group, look at the posts that have already been shared and engage regularly. That way, you can be certain that whatever you post is trustworthy and relevant, and that there is already an open, engaging discussion between you and the group’s participants. Using LinkedIn Newsletters to Expand Your Reach LinkedIn newsletters are an excellent way to increase your following while also showcasing your fantastic long-form content. LinkedIn newsletters, unlike feed posts, can be much longer and can include images, videos, and articles you’ve written. Users can also sign up for updates. Like a newspaper or magazine, but much more modern and interactive for the digital age. Sharing Native Video Content Sharing LinkedIn native video content – videos uploaded directly on LinkedIn or created on the platform itself – is key to getting your content seen in 2022. Unlike other videos, native video content auto-plays in your LinkedIn feed to immediately grab the reader’s eye – and we already know that video content garners more engagement than text posts. Using Creativity in Your Content Though LinkedIn was originally a social networking website used to connect with like-minded professionals, the type of content shared has become much more informal and relatable in recent years with the use of emojis, memes, personal anecdotes, and more. It’s critical to investigate what’s being shared on LinkedIn and experiment with your tone of voice and content style to see what your audience best relates to and responds to. Use polls, carousel posts (by uploading your images as a PDF), and articles to increase engagement. Use emojis liberally in your activity feed to create a mix of engaging and informative content. Captions that are simple and long are much more likely to be scrolled. LinkedIn Articles Publication Many businesses struggle with social media platforms because they are trying to get their point across with a limited word count (we’re looking at you, Twitter), or creating short and snappy content that still has value. Fortunately, LinkedIn articles solve this issue. LinkedIn articles are similar to other types of articles in that they are longer, in-depth posts with a character limit of 120,000 characters that can include images, videos, and other rich media – much like a blog post! LinkedIn articles can be used to share industry insights and expertise, advice for professionals in your industry, case studies, or even existing blogs from your website. Credit: Scott Jones READ NEXT ON: The Power of Brand Advocacy: How to Convert Followers Into Fans
