Uriah Karikari is an entomologist and an agripreneur, passionate about putting smiles on the faces of people. This passion has led him to take a job with an NGO which motivates and encourages the youth to become entrepreneurs. He spends eight hours of his working days serving as an assistant country director with African Collegiate Entrepreneur – Ghana (ACE –Ghana).
The rest of the hours are dedicated to reading, learning and thinking. Outside of mentoring, he also enjoys photography, which he does on Sundays, spending time with his camera and the environment.
We had a chat with Uriah to find out about his experience as a mentor of the Ahaspora Changing Mindsets Mentoring Program.
What inspired you to give back through the Ahaspora mentoring program?
From my observation and interaction with people especially the young adults, I realised most young adults take decisions based on the amount of knowledge they have been exposed to. Most often, these youth have little or no exposure to guide their decision making process. I’m delighted to help pass on knowledge and share experiences to help make an impact in the lives of such young adults.
Is this your first time mentoring with Ahaspora?
This is not my first time as a mentor with Ahaspora; it is my second time. I was however not satisfied with my input as a mentor the first time. During that period, I was enrolled on an MPhil programme which took much of my time. I communicated with my mentee through phone calls and via whatsapp messaging. I knew I could have done better, I signed up the second time to get the opportunity to be the mentor I needed to be.
What has been your experience so far as a mentor?
Being an Ahaspora mentor has helped me put emotions aside and act professionally with my mentees. This I apply in my profession as an entrepreneur- the results has been good.
What has been your most memorable moment with your mentee?
My most memorable moment with my mentee was on the 10th of April, 2018. We met to talk about our preparation towards the next academic term. We had a good discussion about her academic, social and professional life. At the end of the period, she made a decision to read wide and develop interest Inn things and activities outside her field of study. Prior to this, apart from the subjects she read at school, she was not concerned with any other issues, and so had no interest in reading and watching the news.
What would you say to aspiring mentors?
“For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more thy which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.” (Romans 5:17, KJV of the Bible). By one person a life be impacted.
Would you recommend this program to aspiring mentors? Why?
I absolutely would recommend this program to aspiring mentors who want to pass down good traits or pass on knowledge. Ahaspora mentoring program will give them the platform and guidance to become better mentors.
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Want to be a mentor? Read all about our program and how to get involved here.
