The First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Bernard Ahiafor, has called on Ghanaians to cultivate a growth mindset and resilience to overcome life's challenges.
Mr Ahiafor emphasised the transformative role of books in shaping societies, stating that they preserve experiences, challenge conventional thinking and inspire innovation.
He made these remarks when he read a speech at the launch of two books authored by tax expert and Deloitte Ghana partner, Mrs Gloria Boye-Doku at the British Council in Accra last Wednesday.
The books, titled The Power of Hope – A Journey of Grace and Tenacity and Mindset for Success – Unlocking Your Potential, were unveiled at the British Council in Accra, attracting dignitaries from the corporate, legal and academic sectors.
Speaking as the guest of honour, Mr Ahiafor recounted his long-standing association with the author, having taught her economics during his national service days at Kimbu Secondary Technical School.
"My association with Gloria spans many years ago. I had the privilege of knowing her as a young student during my national service. Even then, she distinguished herself through discipline, humility, diligence and a desire to excel," he recalled.
He continued "It has therefore been immensely fulfilling to witness her remarkable journey from that promising young student to becoming an accomplished professional, a respected business leader, a mentor to many, a devoted wife and mother, and now an author whose voice would inspire generations."
Tools for national
development
He said leadership is a skill if well acquired through reading and observance will lead to the greatness of any nation.
"Every great nation has been shaped not only by visionary leaders but also by visionary thinkers who have dared to document their experiences for the benefit of others. Today, Gloria joins that distinguished tradition," he said.
He described The Power of Hope as more than a personal memoir, noting that it serves as a testimony to the resilience of the human spirit and a timely reminder that hope remains one of humanity's greatest strengths.
"Hope empowers us to persevere when circumstances seem impossible. Hope enables us to rise after every fall. Hope reminds us that today's challenges are not the final chapter of our story," Mr Ahiafor stated.
On the second book, Mindset for Success, the First Deputy Speaker noted that success begins long before results become visible, starting with one's thoughts, beliefs and attitudes.
"In today's highly competitive and rapidly changing world, technical knowledge alone is no longer sufficient. Our nation needs citizens who possess resilience, integrity, creativity, discipline, emotional intelligence and a growth mindset. These are the qualities that build strong institutions, successful businesses, thriving families and prosperous nations," he added.
Divine guidance
In her remarks, Mrs Boye-Doku traced her journey from humble beginnings in her village to becoming the first female tax partner in Deloitte Ghana, attributing her success to divine guidance and the power of mindset.
"If you had asked me as a young girl what I would become, I would never have imagined this path. After junior high school, my future seemed clear – I was going to become a seamstress. The sewing machine had been prepared and everything was in place for me to begin my apprenticeship. But God had a different plan," she narrated.
She explained that instead of pursuing dressmaking, she found herself in senior high school studying home economics, a path she could not have foreseen.
"At every stage of my journey, I have witnessed God's hand guiding, protecting and opening doors that I could never have opened on my own. Through seasons of uncertainty and triumph, His grace has been my anchor, and these books are ultimately a testimony to His faithfulness," she said.