The Mastercard Foundation Alumni Network, an umbrella group for alumni of various Mastercard Foundation programs, marked a significant milestone with its maiden convening held at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) from November 15 to November 17, 2024.
Under the theme “Networking for Growth: Uniting Minds, Expanding Horizons,” the event brought together a diverse range of alumni to foster community, facilitate meaningful networking, and chart a strategic direction for the Network.
The convening featured alumni from the Scholars Program at KNUST, Ashesi University, CAMFED, and programs such as YALI, Young Impact Associates, and Springboard Roadshow Foundation, among others.
The Mastercard Foundation Country Director for Ghana, Ms. Rica Rwigamba, joined the event alongside the Alumni Network Committee members.
Ms. Rwigamba opened the convening with a keynote address emphasizing the importance of genuine networking, consistent engagement, and shared values. “We must intentionally build networks that foster meaningful bonds, amplify our collective impact, and advance the goals of this vibrant community,” she stated.
Key Highlights: A Platform for Ideas and Initiatives
A central feature of the event was a panel session moderated by Ms. Christabel Odonkor,a Cohort Five Fellow of the Emerging Public Leaders. Panelists included Mr. Ira Osei Akoto from the Digital Opportunity Trust, Ms. Higmat Sungdeme from Soronko Academy, and Ms. Victorine Vondee of the Scholars Program at CAMFED
The discussion revolved around the vision of building a dynamic and inclusive network for young professionals. Key takeaways included: Strengthening the Network: Participants advocated for mentorship programs, social support systems, and enhanced communication channels to address the diverse needs of alumni.
Again, Alumni were encouraged to leverage their varied expertise for collaborative initiatives, such as tech-agriculture solutions within the agribusiness value chain. The Network was envisioned as a support system offering mentorship, hackathons, and entrepreneurship residencies to harness alumni potential.
The panel emphasized a pay-it-forward model, urging alumni to share stories, provide mentorship, and contribute financially to sustain the Network.
Proposals for inclusive leadership included creating sector-specific subcommittees and regional committees to enhance representation.
Also during the breakout sessions, participants broke into four groups to explore ways to improve the Network’s responsiveness to its stakeholders. Proposals included decentralizing the Network, establishing an alumni chamber of commerce, and encouraging peer-to-peer mentoring.
Moreover, the discussions focused on expanding funding opportunities, business support, and co-creating initiatives for greater impact. Emphasis was placed on sustainable funding models, mentorship programs, and regional leadership structures to increase inclusivity.
Suggestions included automatic enrollment of program beneficiaries into the Alumni Network and creating a comprehensive alumni database. The convening introduced a toll-free helpline (0308255775) offering services such as psychological support, career guidance, and counseling.
Alumni were also encouraged to utilize platforms like Baobab and the Transition Community on LinkedIn to enhance communication and collaboration.
Charting the Way Forward
The Convening proposed ambitious vision and plans for the Alumni Network within the next two years, including building a comprehensive database to track members’ career and academic status, achieving 70% employment among alumni, promoting cross-sector partnerships, and enhancing regional leadership structures.
A robust evaluation framework was also proposed to ensure accountability and continuous improvement. Mr. Mohammed, a YALI alumnus, delivered the closing remarks, urging participants to focus on personal growth and value creation as a foundation for meaningful contributions to the Network.
He stressed the importance of continuous learning and leveraging development opportunities offered by Mastercard Foundation programs.
The maiden Mastercard Foundation Alumni Network convening was a resounding success, laying a solid foundation for a vibrant, inclusive, and impactful community.
By fostering collaboration, enhancing resources, and promoting a culture of giving back, the Network is poised to become a hub for innovation and social transformation in Ghana and beyond.
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