A Bold New Normal: Embracing Growth, Identity, and Transformation

Transformation is rarely defined by one single moment. More often, it is shaped by a series of experiences that challenge us, encourage us, and remind us of how far we have come.

This weekend, I had the privilege of attending the Bold New Normal Conference 2025 in Accra, an opportunity made possible through the invitation of the Ashesi Career Services Team.

Beyond being a conference, the experience became a moment of reflection on growth, identity, and the continuous journey of becoming.

One of the most meaningful moments for me was being selected to read Chapter 9 of the newly launched French edition of Lucy Quist’s book, La Nouvelle Norme Audacieuse.

Standing in front of such a diverse and inspiring audience was more than a public speaking moment. It was a reminder of a personal journey — from learning English a few years ago to now having the opportunity to represent my bilingual identity in a space that celebrates African voices, ideas, and stories.

It made me reflect on how growth often happens quietly. We are usually focused on the next destination that we forget to appreciate the distance we have already traveled.

From Lucy Quist’s masterclass and the conversations shared throughout the conference, one lesson stayed with me: transformation is a marathon, not a sprint.

Real transformation requires patience, intentionality, and a willingness to keep learning. It requires us to communicate with purpose, embrace our humanity, and build relationships with people who challenge us to become better versions of ourselves.

I am deeply grateful to the Ashesi Career Services Team, especially Selasi Nukpe, for this opportunity and for creating pathways that allow students to engage with inspiring spaces beyond the classroom.

I am also grateful to Lucy Quist and all the speakers who reminded us that the future we want to see begins with the choices we make today.

The Bold New Normal is not something we simply wait for.

It is something we actively contribute to creating.