Boxing Hall of Famer Azumah Nelson brought the curtain down on the first edition of his “Zoom Zoom Clinics” last Friday, a juvenile boxing and mentorship programme aimed at inspiring Ghana’s youth.
The final session took place at the Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (PRESEC) in Accra.
Over the past two months, Azumah, his team and his sponsors have engaged with students aged 12-18 in schools across Tamale, Kumasi, and Takoradi, sharing valuable lessons from his storied career.
The initiative, which seeks to mentor the next generation of leaders, made its final stop at PRESEC, where students from several schools, including Accra Girls Senior High School, West African Senior High School, and Labone Senior High School, gathered.
During his address, Azumah Nelson used personal anecdotes to urge the students to remain disciplined and focused on their ambitions.
He highlighted the importance of seven principles he credited for his success: time management, honesty and respect, good preparation and discipline, avoiding drugs, hard work and determination, never giving up, and faith in God.
“Life is just like boxing,” Nelson told the students. “You will face a lot of knocks and setbacks, but you have to be disciplined, keep trusting in God, and work towards your goals.”
The session also featured an interactive quiz on Azumah’s principles, where Nestor Kabutey, a second-year Science student, won a GH₵3,000 cash prize. Other students also received prizes for their participation.
The Assistant Headmaster of Administration at PRESEC, Prince Sackey Agortey, expressed the school’s gratitude for hosting the event, noting that they were already considering similar initiatives to inspire their students.
Sponsors of the event, including GOIL, GTS Drilling, and GCB Bank, praised Azumah’s efforts to inspire the youth.
The Corporate Affairs representative of GOIL, Irene Boakye Dankwah, highlighted the importance of recognizing the influence of a legend like Azumah. Dr. Iddi Baah Kurey, HR Manager of GTS Drilling, expressed the company’s excitement to support an event that could help shape the future of Ghana’s youth.
Samuel Aidoo, Executive Director of Wholesale & Investment Banking at GCB Bank, noted the significance of investing in young people, given that the average age of a Ghanaian is 21.
“It was a fantastic opportunity when Azumah approached us for a partnership. Many lessons can be learned from his career,” Aidoo said, adding that despite the knocks life may bring, with focus and determination, one can achieve their goals.
