Ghana National Association of the Deaf Empowers Next Generation of Leaders – Youth Wing – Ghana National Association of the Deaf (GNAD).

Ghana National Association of the Deaf Empowers Next Generation of Leaders – Youth Wing

Every two years, the Ghana National Association of the Deaf (GNAD) embarks on an important event that underscores its commitment to youth empowerment and democratic participation. That is the election and handing over ceremony of the Youth Section National Executives Elections of GNAD. The 2025 edition, held with vibrant energy at the GNAD Conference Hall in Accra from May 10th to 11th, 2025, was more than just an election; it was a dynamic celebration of youth leadership, inclusivity, and the inspiring force of youth-led progress.

The primary objective of this biennial gathering is to empower and engage young people within GNAD to actively participate in decision-making at local, regional, and national levels. This commitment aims to foster a more inclusive governance structure that genuinely values their perspectives and contributions. Ultimately, the project seeks to cultivate a proactive deaf youth leadership capable of effectively guiding the GNAD Youth Section (GNAD-YS).
The election program drew 26 youth participants from 10 regions across Ghana, representing a rich diversity of the various regions. Among them were 12 females and 14 males from the Northern, Upper East, Upper West, Bono East, Ashanti, Volta, Eastern, Western, Greater Accra, and Central Regions. Their collective presence highlighted the nationwide reach and impact of GNAD’s youth initiatives.
Adding significant value to the program were key GNAD officials and invited dignitaries, who offered wisdom and encouragement. Notable attendees included: Mr. Juventus Duorinaah, GNAD Executive Director, Mr. Matthew Kubachua, GNAD National President, Madam Christie Yaghr, GNAD National Vice-President, Mr. Musah Akugri, GNAD Programs Manager, Mr. David Mborkor, GNAD Greater Accra Regional President, Mr. Felix Dare, GNAD Project Coordinator, Mr. Jonathan Ntim-Darko, Sign Language Interpreter, Alana Smith, Peace Corps Volunteer and Deaf advocate from the USA.

FROM VETTING TO VICTORY
The event started with an insightful address from GNAD’s National President, Mr. Matthew Kubachua. He highlighted the remarkable journey and significant achievements of GNAD-YS since its inception in 2009, commending the youth section’s unwavering spirit and continued progress despite resource constraints. Mr. Musah Akugri, GNAD Programs Manager, further reinforced this message, highlighting the importance of electing capable leaders with integrity and a clear sense of purpose.
To equip the aspiring leaders with essential insights, Mr. Cosmos Wuanka, a former Youth Board Member and immediate past GNAD National Secretary, delivered an engaging leadership lecture. His presentation delved into crucial areas, including: The essence of leadership and servant leadership, the importance of youth leaders with disabilities, the Roles and responsibilities of elected youth leaders, the Dangers of power, arrogance, and how to avoid them, and Practical steps to begin effective leadership. This session fostered active engagement, with ample opportunity for participants to seek clarification and ask pertinent questions. Following the informative sessions, the vetting process began. The vetting committee comprised:
• The GNAD National President – Chairman
• The Executive Director – Member
• The Vice-President – Member
• The Greater Accra Regional Leader – Member
• A former Youth Secretary – Cosmos Wuanka – Member
Candidates were assessed on their comprehension of GNAD’s vision and mission, their engagement within their respective regions, and their motivations for seeking office. All nominees successfully met the minimum requirements, demonstrating their qualifications and commitment to proceed to the elections.
Election was generally opened during the second day, with a clear briefing by GNAD National President, Mr. Kubachua, on the electoral procedures, ensuring a transparent and fair voting process. The subsequent voting was spirited and participatory, culminating in the following results:
• Public Relations Officer:
o Winner: Alberto Adongo
• Treasurer:
o Winner: Neirous Gbamara
• Secretary:
o Winner: Richmond Adai
• Vice-President:
o Winner: Abigail Osae
• President:
o Winner: Emmanuel Ayemzokiya
Following the declaration of results, the Programs Manager of GNAD swore in the newly elected executives, officially commencing their duties. This was preceded by the outgoing executives formally handing over to the newly elected team. The newly elected officials took an oath to serve with integrity, dedication, and humility. In a powerful symbolic gesture of transition and continuity, the outgoing Youth President handed over the official youth wing laptop containing essential documents and resources.
Encouraging words poured in from GNAD President Mr. Kubachua, the Greater Accra Regional Leader, the Programs Manager, and the outgoing Youth President, Linda Gibbah. All speakers urged the new team to remain focused and accountable to the youth they represent, emphasising the critical role they play in advancing the rights and opportunities for deaf youth across Ghana.