THE author of From Load to Grace and face of Porter Path Foundation, Ms Mariam Eliasu, has gained admission to the Wisconsin University College to pursue a degree programme in humanities.

Her journey gained national attention after being discovered in 2025 by Ghanaian author David Raphaelle Antwi (Author Ralph). Before this, Mariam spent eight years working as a head porter (Kayayoo) on the streets of Accra.

Determined to achieve her dreams of becoming successful in life, she refused to succumb to any pressure to compromise her dignity as a woman.

“Mariam endured through hardship, worked diligently, and refused to give up on her quest for a dignified life one day. Today, she is a proud student of Wisconsin University College and an advocate for people on the streets, especially porters,” an official from the foundation said.

Under the Porter Path Foundation initiative, Mariam’s goal was to secure help for at least 1,000 people on the streets of Accra through sponsorship from individuals and organisations.

The Relevant Achievers Impacting Nations (RAIN Foundations) and Global Youth Network of The World Conference of Mayors Inc. are two key organisations partnering with PPF to help transform the lives of the socially disadvantaged on the streets.

Mariam is expected to give several talks and share her story to inspire young people this year across Africa, Europe, and America.

Eliasu’s book, Porter Path: From Load to Grace, a book and social initiative, was inspired by her journey from a street porter to an advocate for the vulnerable.

Her story does not only inspire hope for the socially disadvantaged and people living on the streets, but also challenges the privileged in society to extend support to those whose futures still hold great promise.

MR Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, Minority Leader in Parliament, has urged Ghana’s youth to look beyond their academic laurels and take responsibility to lead the country.

He said, “Beyond the degree lies leadership. Beyond the degree lies innovation. Beyond the degree lies responsibility.”

Mr Afenyo-Markin made the remarks last Saturday when he delivered the keynote address at the “Beyond the Degree Conference 2026” in Winneba.

He lamented the high rate of youth unemployment in Ghana, citing a report by the Ghana Statistical Service which indicated that youth unemployment remained disproportionately high compared to other age groups.

“The government, through the Minister of Health, told us last year that it cannot employ all 74,000 trained nurses by the end of 2026. Similarly, thousands of teacher trainees remain at home, waiting for opportunities that have not materialised,” he said.

Mr Afenyo-Markin, who is also the New Patriotic Party Member of Parliament for Effutu Constituency, emphasised that education must be understood as more than classroom learning or the certificate received at the end of studies, but as a foundation for responsible citizenship and leadership.

“The true purpose of education is far greater. Education shapes the mind to think critically, the heart to act ethically, and the hands to work diligently,” he said.

He urged the youth to develop competence, integrity, and resilience, and to take initiative in shaping the country’s future.

“Ghana needs a generation of young leaders who are committed to shaping institutions, influencing policy and holding systems accountable,” he said.

He also highlighted the importance of entrepreneurship, technical skills, and digital innovation in creating opportunities for the youth.

“The future of Ghana cannot be built by job seekers alone. It must also be built by job creators,” he emphasised.

—GNA