On Saturday, July 5th, the Ashaiman community came alive. Hundreds of young people gathered for the premiere of three youth-led short films under the Ghana Grows Program.
The event was a collaboration between the Mastercard Foundation and the Springboard Road Show Foundation. With creative direction from Meraki Arts Africa, it used storytelling to reshape how young Ghanaians view agriculture and agribusiness.
The films were written and produced by Meraki Arts. They challenge long-held stereotypes about agriculture and ATVET (Agricultural Technical and Vocational Education and Training). More importantly, they highlight real stories of change, purpose, and possibility.
According to Comfort Ocran, Executive Director of Springboard Road Show Foundation, the event went beyond entertainment.
“This was more than a film premiere. It was a turning point. These stories can unlock confidence, reshape mindsets, and inspire the youth to see agriculture and ATVET as creative and dignified career paths.”
Well-known actor Adjetey Anang, who starred in the films, praised the young creators.
“It’s not just entertainment—it’s about identity, dignity, and building a shared future,” he said.
The premiere drew young people from Ashaiman and beyond. Additionally, media houses, creative leaders, and key stakeholders were in attendance. After the screenings, a panel discussion allowed the cast and crew to reflect on their experiences. They also discussed how storytelling can drive mindset change.
Ashaiman was chosen for a reason. Its vibrant youth community and history of grassroots success made it the ideal place to premiere the films. The high energy and engagement captured the spirit of Ghana Grows—to ignite real change where it matters most.
The Ghana Grows Program is led by the Springboard Road Show Foundation and funded by the Mastercard Foundation. It continues to promote agriculture and ATVET as modern and respected career options for young people across Ghana. With ongoing support from creative and technical collaborators such as Meraki Arts Africa, Lyme Haus, and others, the program is driving forward its mission of mindset transformation, skills training, and youth empowerment.
About Ghana Grows
Ghana Grows is an initiative by the Mastercard Foundation and led by the Springboard Road Show Foundation. It is supported by partners including Lyme Haus, Axis Human Capital, Meraki Arts Africa, Light for the World, Ghana Psychological Association, Young & Vibe, Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters (FAGE), Ghana National Tailors and Dressmakers Association (GNTDA), Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), and Ghana Hairdressers and Beauticians Association (GHABA).