The inaugural “Zoom Zoom Clinics” program, which aims to inspire Ghana’s young via mentorship and youth boxing, was officially closed last Friday by Boxing Hall of Famer Azumah Nelson. The previous session was held at the Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (PRESEC) in Accra.
Azumah Nelson, his group, and his sponsors have spent the last two months visiting schools in Tamale, Kumasi, and Takoradi with youngsters between the ages of twelve and eighteen, imparting insightful knowledge from his legendary career.
Students from multiple schools, including Accra Girls Senior High School, West African Senior High School, and Labone Senior High School, met at PRESEC for the initiative’s final stop, which aims to mentor the future generation of leaders.
Azumah Nelson urged the students to maintain discipline and focus on their goals throughout his speech by sharing personal tales.
He emphasized the significance of seven values that he held responsible for his accomplishments: self-control, integrity and decency, discipline and preparation, abstaining from narcotics, perseverance and hard work, never giving up, and confidence in God.
Nelson said, “Life is just like boxing,” to the students. “You will face a lot of knocks and setbacks, but you have to be disciplined, keep trusting in God, and work towards your goals.”
The session also featured an interactive quiz on Azumah’s principles, where Nestor Kabutey, a second-year Science student, won a GH₵3,000 cash prize. Other students also received prizes for their participation.
The Assistant Headmaster of Administration at PRESEC, Prince Sackey Agortey, expressed the school’s gratitude for hosting the event, noting that they were already considering similar initiatives to inspire their students.
The event’s sponsors, GOIL, GTS Drilling, and GCB Bank, commended Azumah for her efforts to motivate young people.
Irene Boakye Dankwah, GOIL’s Corporate Affairs representative, emphasized the need of appreciating the impact of a legend such as Azumah. The HR Manager of GTS Drilling, Dr. Iddi Baah Kurey, emphasized the company’s delight about sponsoring an event that could influence the youth of Ghana in the future.
Given that the average age of a Ghanaian is 21, Samuel Aidoo, Executive Director of Wholesale & Investment Banking at GCB Bank, highlighted the need of investing in youth.
“It was a fantastic opportunity when Azumah approached us for a partnership. Many lessons can be learned from his career,” Aidoo said, adding that despite the knocks life may bring, with focus and determination, one can achieve their goals.
