The maiden edition of the Changemakers Challenge, an initiative designed to nurture innovative ideas among young people, has successfully concluded, with participants pitching bold solutions to real societal challenges under the mentorship of Akosua Asaa Manu.
Held on Friday, March 6, 2026, the programme brought together a cohort of young innovators, providing a platform to present enterprise-driven solutions while receiving guidance on transforming their ideas into viable ventures capable of creating impact in their communities.
During the mentorship session, participants delivered 15-minute pitch presentations, showcasing concepts ranging from community development initiatives to enterprise solutions addressing social and economic challenges.
Speaking at the event, programme principal Akosua Asaa Manu emphasized the importance of supporting young people with ideas and providing platforms to refine those ideas into practical ventures.
“The purpose of the Changemakers Challenge is to identify bold ideas, nurture them through mentorship, and help transform them into enterprises that can create real impact in our communities,” she said.
She added that Ghana’s development will increasingly rely on young people willing to think creatively and develop innovative solutions to pressing challenges. “The future of our country depends on young people who are prepared to innovate and act. What we are doing through this challenge is creating a platform where ideas can be nurtured and refined so that they can contribute meaningfully to national development,” Manu noted.
The mentorship session also formed part of the selection process for the top three proposals that will be adopted and supported under the programme. Participants presented their ideas before a panel, followed by questions assessing feasibility, scalability, and potential impact.
In addition to pitching sessions, the programme included training on running and sustaining an enterprise, offering practical insights into entrepreneurship, business development, and leadership. Participants learned about strategic planning, financial discipline, and market positioning—key elements in transforming ideas into sustainable ventures.
According to Manu, the initiative seeks to bridge the gap between innovative thinking and practical implementation by equipping participants with the skills, networks, and mentorship needed to succeed.
She added that, aside from the top three finalists, remaining participants will continue to receive guidance to refine their proposals, which will be shared with potential mentors and partners to help develop the ideas into impactful ventures.
For many participants, presenting their ideas before mentors and industry experts was a valuable learning experience, helping them strengthen their concepts and communicate their vision more effectively.
Organizers say the Changemakers Challenge is expected to grow into a broader platform that continues to identify, mentor, and support young innovators across Ghana. By combining mentorship, enterprise training, and partnership opportunities, the initiative aims to empower the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs to turn ideas into solutions that benefit society.
With the enthusiasm and creativity displayed during the maiden cohort’s presentations, organizers expressed optimism that the programme will significantly promote youth innovation and entrepreneurship in the country.
