On Thursday, 25th November, 2010, film maker, CEO of Channel 2 Communications and television host of Time with David, made time to speak with Ashesi University's Leadership Two class. The focus of Mr. Ampofo's talk was first, on the issue of leadership in general and his keys for success. Later in the session, he provided some insight on his educational and work experience. He also shared with students some of the plans his company had adopted for long term growth and sustainability.
Once he was done with his introduction, David asked rhetorically: “Why does leadership always focus on future leaders? What happened to the leaders of yesterday and today and why are they not being discussed? Maybe if we spoke about leaders of yesterday and today, we could use them as a sign post for tomorrow’s leaders.” If that approach was taken, the progress of Africa would be inevitably quickened, in his opinion. He further stated that it was the responsibility of the leader to get his followers to understand his or her vision, ideas and agenda. This responsibility is often ignored in Africa, resulting in some of the development challenges Africa faces currently.
On success, Mr. Ampofo suggested that true success lies in the ability of a person to take stock of where they are at any point in their lives. A leader must be true to themselves and understand his of her own strengths and weaknesses. He warned that a leader will face many challenges along the way. “You have to be enthusiastic to become successful!” the veteran communicator quipped.
David expressed his considered views on the growth of West Africa. He explained that he hoped to see the countries of West Africa develop. Mr Ampofo mused that Ghana’s current standing in the sub-region could allow it to act as a nucleus for such transformational change if leaders, specifically political leaders, would show visionary leadership.
David studied philosophy and political science as an undergrad and worked at Ghana Broadcasting Company (GBC) as a news reporter during his national service. He acquired a Masters degree in Journalism and Communication from the University of Wales in Cardiff and also worked as a correspondent in the United States of America as an intern with the United Nations. .
Mr. Ampofo concluded his message to students with these wise words, “You must look after the people you work with and build relationships with your clients so that you can have continued business. In order to become great leaders, people must aspire to do what they do in the best possible way.”