TAF STORIES (INSPIRING TESTIMONIALS)

My name is Henry Kartey Boeh-Ocansey, born on September 26, 1995. I'm a 27-year-old who once felt hopeless, believing that it was too late for me to make a meaningful impact on my own life or the lives of those around me. It seemed like I had hit a solid wall, a barrier that was nearly impossible to break through.

I had a wonderful childhood, filled with love from my father, who was a respected medical officer in the United States, and the support of my extended family and friends. However, everything changed when my father passed away, shattering the dreamlike world I had known.

Despite the challenges, I considered myself a good student. I excelled in my Junior High School exams and fulfilled my childhood ambition of gaining admission to Presbyterian Boys Secondary School (PRESEC) in Accra, Ghana. PRESEC, known as one of the most prestigious high schools in the country, was also the alma mater of my personal inspiration, Rt. Hon. Prof. Mike Oquaye the former Speaker of Parliament of the Republic of Ghana.

Although my father had passed away before I completed Junior High School, I was assured that I would be taken care of by his brothers and friends. So, when I got into PRESEC, I felt unstoppable. I had a plan mapped out on paper: study hard, pass my exams, and pursue a medical career. Attending medical school was another dream of mine.

However, the storms began to brew when I reached the second year of high school, though I remained optimistic. I started struggling to pay my school fees and other expenses. Graduating from high school in 2014, I managed to secure a place in medical school to fulfil my dream of walking in my father’s footsteps as a lawyer. I was overjoyed, but my mother, a simple public health nurse, couldn't hide her worry. The burden of financing my medical education weighed heavily on her. Tuition payments were missed, and I faced frequent disqualifications from exam halls. I couldn't afford proper accommodation, so I had to sneak in and out of my hostel to avoid confrontations with the manager. I often went hungry, barely eating once a day and sometimes twice if I was lucky.

My father's brothers, friends, and even my extended family became difficult to reach, except for a few cousins. My mother and I realized that switching courses was the only option. I opted for Physician Assistantship, hoping it would be a more affordable path. Little did I know that the ordeal would become even worse. Even after choosing what seemed like a cheaper option, I found myself starving. I went days without meals until my concerned mother couldn't bear it anymore. Eventually, I had to drop out of university. At least back home, I could enjoy a comforting meal.

You may wonder what my father, the "established medical officer," had left me. Well, his properties were seized and sold before our eyes. My widowed mother had no recourse due to "traditional customs." Currently, we live in my maternal grandfather's house in Somanya.

One day, a friend mentioned The African Freelancers' (T.A.F.) College to me. He claimed they offered free tuition to students in Ghana. I dismissed it as a far-fetched idea, considering my own experiences. How could a tertiary institution offer free education when my previous school had kicked me out for being unable to pay 75% of my fees? However, three months later, I stumbled upon a story about T.A.F. College on YouTube. I couldn't believe what I was seeing and hearing. It felt like a miraculous salvation at a time when I felt lost and on the verge of giving up.

Now, we have embarked on our journey at T.A.F. College, and it has exceeded my expectations. Although my mother and I still face hardships, such as uncertainty about transportation to campus, the belief of T.A.F. College and Rev. Johnny Oquaye in our potential gives me hope every day. My mornings are brighter, and I feel a renewed sense of purpose and self-worth.

I am immensely grateful to T.A.F. College, and I understand the incredible opportunity they have given us. I will treasure every moment of this journey. Real estate, in my eyes, is one of the best investment opportunities available, and with T.A.F., I believe I can carve out a place for myself in the Ghanaian real estate market.

Thank you, T.A.F. College, and thank you, Rev. Johnnie Oquaye. May the Lord bless your endeavours and continue to shower His grace upon your lives.

My name is Blessing, and I'm 23 years old. My journey has been one of resilience, determination, and unwavering faith in my own potential. From the moment I came into this world, my father was absent from my life. My mother, a brave and hardworking woman, raised me single-handedly as a petty trader selling fried fish on the side of the road. Life was never easy for us, but my mother's unwavering love and sacrifice taught me the true meaning of strength.

At the age of 12, I became my mother's assistant, learning the trade and doing whatever I could to contribute to our meager income. We faced countless hardships, especially when my mother couldn't repay her debts to the suppliers who extended her credit. Those were the times when life seemed unbearably tough, and I couldn't see any light at the end of the tunnel. The circumstances took a toll on my education, and my high school grades suffered, even though I had excelled in junior high. Despite the setbacks, I never gave up.

As I grew older, I faced temptations that could have offered me an easier way out. Some financially well-off individuals offered their assistance, but it came with a heavy price—my dignity and self-respect. I knew deep in my heart that compromising my values was not the path I wanted to take. Instead, I sought out opportunities that would allow me to uplift myself and my family without sacrificing my integrity.

That's when I found work as a waitress at the Royal Senchi Hotel. It wasn't just a job to pay the bills; it was a chance for me to support my loved ones and continue my education. Balancing my work responsibilities and studies wasn't easy, but I was determined to make it work. Every day, I pushed myself to go the extra mile because I knew that my dreams were worth the sacrifices.

And then, like a guiding light, an opportunity presented itself. A dear friend told me about TAF College, which offered tuition-free education and the chance to become an entrepreneur. I wasted no time and filled out the application form, praying for a chance to pursue my dreams on my own terms. When the call for an interview came, I felt a surge of hope within me. The interview went well, and I was overjoyed when I received admission to TAF College.

Now, I travel two hours from Akosombo, the city where I live, to attend classes three days a week. The journey is long, and the road isn't always smooth, but I embrace every challenge because I know that I'm on the path to my destiny. TAF College has become my beacon of hope, providing me with the knowledge and skills to create a better future for myself and my family. I am eternally grateful for the opportunity they have given me.

I am the author of my own story, and I refuse to let my past define me. Every day, I remind myself that my worth is not determined by the circumstances of my birth or the challenges I've faced. I am defined by my resilience, my unwavering belief in myself, and my commitment to creating a better life. My journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the strength that lies within each of us.

As I continue on this path, I carry the hopes and dreams of those who have supported me and believed in me. I am determined to make them proud. My journey is not just about my personal success; it's about inspiring others who may find themselves facing similar obstacles. I want to show them that it is possible to rise above adversity, to reject compromise, and to create a future filled with success and fulfilment.

I am Blessing, and I am on a remarkable journey. With every step I take, I am moving closer to my dreams, guided by my unwavering faith and the belief that I am destined for greatness. And as I reach for the stars, I will continue to inspire others to believe in themselves and embrace the incredible power they hold within.

My TAF Story is a testament to the power of perseverance, determination, and the unwavering belief in one's dreams. Despite facing numerous challenges and obstacles, I refused to let my circumstances define me. Instead, I took control of my destiny and embarked on a remarkable journey towards my passion for music production.

Growing up without the presence of my parents was undoubtedly tough, and after completing school, I found myself unemployed and disheartened. However, amidst the darkness, a spark ignited within me when I discovered my true passion for music production. It was a calling that resonated deep within my soul, and I knew I had to pursue it.

But the road to achieving my dreams was not an easy one. 

Financial constraints stood as formidable barriers in my path. However, destiny works in mysterious ways, and in January, a glimmer of hope appeared through a YouTube video by my favourite content creator, Wode Maya. He shared news of a Free Tuition Education initiative for African Creators in Accra, Ghana. Sceptical yet curious, I contacted a friend in Ghana to confirm the legitimacy of this opportunity, and her confirmation filled me with a newfound determination.

Though financially unprepared, I refused to let this opportunity slip through my fingers. I scraped together whatever little money I could and embarked on an arduous journey to TAF College. Unable to afford an airline ticket, I navigated through treacherous waters and uncertain land routes. The stormy sea threatened to capsize the boat, and I questioned my choices, but my unwavering determination and faith propelled me forward. I entrusted my life to a higher power, praying for guidance and strength. Navigating through customs officers and marine forces, I reached mainland Lagos, only to continue my journey through Benin and Togo. Hunger gnawed at my stomach, but I pressed on, relying on my unwavering will and resilience. Finally, on the 10th of March, upon rigorous immigration checks I arrived in Ghana, only to face yet another setback as my friend fell ill and was unable to meet me. 

Stranded and alone, I refused to be defeated. With hope as my compass, I ventured into Accra, guided by a stranger who spoke French. The path was uncertain, and the challenges persisted, but my determination remained unshaken. After a gruelling journey on dusty and bumpy roads, I arrived on the premises of TAF College, a weary traveller with nothing more but a rucksack and a dream. My arrival caught the attention of the security guard, and through sheer desperation and honesty, I explained my situation. The President of the school was contacted, and in a moment of grace and compassion, he granted me a place to rest for the night at TAF College. The next morning, the support continued as a staff member took me under their wing, providing me with food, accommodation, and even a gift voucher to ease my financial burdens.

From that moment on, TAF College became more than an educational institution—it became my haven, my family. I found solace in the friendships I formed, and the lectures I attended transformed my mindset. The belief in my potential from the TAF College administration ignited a fire within me, propelling me toward my dreams.

Today, I stand before you, inspired and grateful, for the remarkable opportunity that TAF College has bestowed upon me. I am no longer defined by the circumstances of my past but by the possibilities of my future. The sky is no longer the limit; it is merely the beginning.

I encourage each one of you students to believe in your dreams, no matter the challenges you may face. Embrace adversity as a catalyst for growth and transformation. Remember that when one door closes, another opens, and the path to success may not always be straightforward. Trust in your abilities, stay determined, and surround yourself with those who believe in your potential.

To the TAF College administration, I express my deepest gratitude for your unwavering support and belief in me. You have not only changed my life but also empowered me to become the best version of myself. I will forever cherish this opportunity, and I promise to make the most of it.

My TAF Story is a testament to the power of dreams, resilience, and the incredible strength we possess within ourselves. May it inspire you to pursue your passions relentlessly, overcome any obstacles, and create your own remarkable story of triumph.

Name: Osika Boakye Yiadom Date of Birth: 24th December 1992

I am Sika, hailing from the Ashanti region, specifically Kumasi. As the third born among four children, my life took an unexpected turn when my parents divorced during my childhood. Unfortunately, my father moved away after remarrying, leaving me in a difficult situation. My mother, who didn't have a stable job, resorted to selling tomatoes to make ends meet. After school, I would lend a hand and assist her in selling her tomatoes. However, when I was just sixteen, tragedy struck as my mother fell ill and passed away, leaving me to fend for myself.

In the face of adversity, I embarked on a small business venture. I would go to the sugarcane farm, gathering leftover sugar cane, carrying it on my back for about two miles each day. I would wash, peel, and package it, selling the sugar cane on the streets. This marked my introduction to the life of a street hawker.

After two years, I managed to save most of my earnings and, with the help of my aunt, completed my senior high school education. Upon graduation, I found employment as a cashier at a soccer betting company. It was during this time that I encountered an incredible individual—a true angel sent from heaven. He not only provided financial support but also served as a trusted advisor, always striving for my well-being. With his assistance, I was able to do a short course in the field of manufacturing body creams, shower gels, body scrubs, brightening oils, and more.

However, tragedy struck once again when the love of my life; the man I was going to marry also passed away. Overwhelmed with grief, I fell into a state of depression and considered giving up, convinced that all hope was lost. Tears and sorrow consumed my heart, leaving me feeling lost and directionless. But fate had a different plan in store for me. Just before Christmas, as I watched television, I came across an interview with Madam Tina from Adom TV and Reverend John discussing TAF College and its Free Tuition Initiative. Rev. John's inspiring words resonated with me deeply, rekindling a glimmer of hope within my heart. I wasted no time and rushed to the internet cafe, printing out the application form, scanning it, and sending it to the TAF College email address.

Despite facing yet another tragic event, the passing of my father, I received a life-altering phone call the same day. TAF College reached out to inform me that I had been selected as one of the five recipients of a golden ticket, guaranteeing me a place at the college without the need for an interview. In an instant, my sorrow transformed into joy, as I laid my father to rest in Kumasi and eagerly packed my bags to start a new chapter in Accra. Today, I proudly call myself a TAF College student. I am immensely grateful to TAF College for restoring hope in my life when all seemed lost. They believed in me when I struggled to believe in myself. Now, I firmly believe that I can overcome any obstacle and achieve my dreams. Thank you, TAF College, for being the guiding light that illuminated my path to a brighter future.