St Andrews Africa Summit

With the goal of "Empowering Africa: Unveiling the Hidden Drivers Shaping Tomorrow," I am honoured to have delivered my keynote address at the 10th Annual St Andrews Africa Summit, a commendable student-led and university-supported initiative dedicated to the challenges and opportunities we face on the continent. I am particularly heartened by the summit's focus on women and children's health alongside science and technology, especially as we commemorated the United Nations International Day of Women and Girls in Science, yesterday, emphasising women’s leadership in science to foster a new era for sustainability, while driving socio-economic development. From improving health to combating climate change, women and girls play a critical role in the science and technology communities, and it is essential that their participation is strengthened, especially since #STEM is widely regarded as critical to national economies across Africa. I urged each student to seize the opportunity to be inspired, to learn, and to commit to action, as we are reminded of the transformative impact that collective action can have. Through platforms like such, we can foster open and respectful political dialogue, inspire technical innovation, and mobilise sustainable resources, leading to the unveiling of the hidden drivers shaping tomorrow's Africa, a future defined by hope, resilience, prosperity, and boundless opportunity. #SAASUM #WomeninScience #STEM The Wellbeing Foundation Africa

Yesterday I had the great pleasure and tremendous honor of meeting King Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutu II for the second time— however, this time, on his home turf at the Manhyia Palace, Kumasi, Ghana during the first Akwasidae of the year (an enormous celebration welcoming Ashantimen and their esteemed guests—including government officials, businessmen and women, athletes, and more—to usher in the new year). His Royal Majesty paused the ceremony briefly to speak with me— first asking after my parents to know how they were. If his tremendous generosity as host to us wasn’t enough, his personability struck me most of all. It is incredible to witness and take part in an event with such historical significance and importance, but moreover, to be a part of something that makes a people’s’ leadership feel accessible. The excitement and mutual respect around us on this day cannot be overstated. I extend my sincere thanks and gratitude to His Royal Majesty, all of the Manhyia Palace, and of course to my dear friend Bradley K. Poku-Amankwah for organizing our special trip to Kumasi. It was such a great treat meeting again with so many of the King’s guests, High Commission of Chiefs, and Advance Team members who visited us in Scotland for the ‘St Andrews Africa Summit Asantehene Keynote’ this past September. What a welcome they gave, and what an ache in my heart to return as soon as possible! #manhyiapalace #theasantehene #25thjubilee #akwasidae #welcomethenewyear