The Martha Inspires Foundation has held the 11th edition of its Youth Empowerment Summit in 2026, bringing together students from second-cycle institutions and youth groups for a programme focused on leadership, self-discovery and life-changing opportunities.

The event, themed “Passing the Torch,” gathered speakers from different professional backgrounds to inspire young people and encourage them to prepare for the future with confidence and purpose.

Youth development focus

Adwoa Wiafe, Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer at MTN Ghana, praised the foundation’s work and described Martha Anabilla as an inspirational figure whose initiative has helped to shape the next generation of leaders.

She said MTN Ghana supports programmes like the summit because they help groom young people to make a positive difference in their communities.

“We believe in inspiring the next generation and innovation, making sure that we are passing on lessons we have learnt to them,” she said.

Madam Wiafe said mentoring young people with practical skills and the right tools is essential if they are to succeed in life and contribute meaningfully to national development. She added that MTN Ghana’s wider interest is in empowering people to make informed decisions and gain employable skills.

Stories of impact

Martha Anabilla, Chief Executive Officer of the Martha Inspires Foundation, said the summit continues to produce encouraging results year after year.

She said she and her team receive feedback from participants who say the event has helped them identify their strengths, discover their purpose and pursue their ambitions.

“Most of these young students are able to identify their potentials and purpose and some go on to pursue their dreams,” she said. “They are able to create connections and get scholarships and job opportunities out there. This is what we aspire to do.”

Ms Anabilla said the growing number of impact stories is motivating the foundation to continue the summit and expand its reach.

Building future leaders

Speakers at the event urged young people to stay focused, work hard and take advantage of opportunities that can help them grow personally and professionally. The summit also emphasised the importance of mentorship, networking and skills development as tools for youth empowerment.

Organisers said the 2026 edition reflects a commitment to helping young people build the confidence and capability needed to lead change in their schools, communities and future workplaces.

By Blessed EDUAMOAH DADZIE