HOPSA 91 Magazine

2 The Birthday Journal

Birthdays have always been my thing. I find joy in celebrating myself and others, especially on the occasion of birthdays. So, as my classmates from the Holy Child Past Students Association (Hopsa) class of ‘91 and I turn 50, I’ve looked forward to it with joy and glee. Whether it’s a big or small celebration, the purpose is to celebrate. It’s a spirit of gratitude, and I’ve learned through the years that the more I celebrate, the more I have to celebrate. In our class, you’ll find Agba Ballers, Superstars, Queens, Game Changers, Dynamo Divas, She-roes, Fearless Femmes, Boss Ladies, Inspirers, Mentors, Advocates, and Champions. As we amazing women hit the fabulous milestone of 50, it’s been and continues to be an unapologetic, fun-filled celebration of everything we’ve achieved and all we’re becoming. Living by the school’s motto, “Action Not Words,” we’ve shown time and again that we can do it all. For our milestone, we’re celebrating in style, from intimate family gatherings to divalicious parties and exotic destination bashes, usually sprinkled with surprise elements. And the best part? We always have our sisters by our side to share in the joy. We share our stories to inspire, to reflect on our journeys, and to connect with each other on a deeper level. These narratives not only celebrate our past but also serve as a guiding light for future generations. This is why The Birthday Journal is such an amazing keepsake—it captures the essence of our experiences, preserving our legacy for ourselves and the generations that follow. This is but a preview of the comprehensive one that will be unveiled in July 2025 when everyone in our class will have turned the big 50. If you are interested in being featured in this keepsake, we would love to celebrate with you through The Birthday Journal. So, I urge you to use every opportunity to take photos with your Hopsan sisters, take glam photos, and recall all your favorite memories at school. I look forward to telling all our stories as we embrace our fabulous 50s and the unstoppable spirit of sisterhood! May our years ahead be graced with the blessings of the Holy Child Jesus, filling our lives with joy, peace, and love. Mansa Agyare Founder, The Birthday Journal HOPSA The Joy of Our Golden Jubilee Years The Birthday Journal 3

Serwah’s Journey Confidence, Passion, and the Heartfelt Love of Ghana 4 The Birthday Journal

Lorraine, also known as Serwah, embarked on a remarkable journey of self-discovery. Serwah’s most mind-boggling discovery was the magical art of confidently strutting through life like a superstar! She can’t quite remember where this newfound superpower came from, but one day she woke up and decided, “Why spend all my precious time worrying about what others think of my decisions? It’s my life’s stage, and I’m the headlining act!” So, Lorraine traded in her backstage pass for a center-stage spotlight. She soon realized that this newfound confidence wasn’t just a costume change; it was a full-blown transformation into the superhero of her own story! Now, she believes that embracing this superpower was one of the greatest decisions ever, leading to a spectacular upgrade of herself! Serwah is a true talent powerhouse! Her best friend and Hopsa Sister, Adzo, can attest to that. She flawlessly executed her 50th birthday celebration with passion and skill. No stone was left unturned. Her Hopsan sisters often marvel at her remarkable range of skills and talents, whether it’s her creative flair, problem-solving abilities, or her knack for turning ideas into reality. In her role as an events planner, Serwah thrives on the thrill of conquering the seemingly impossible. Her unique passion for taking on challenging tasks sets her apart in her profession. When faced with daunting challenges, she is on a mission to prove her capabilities and bring the magic to life. Lorraine has been on a hobby journey, from the world of reading to the culinary delights of cooking. Now, at the fabulous age of 50, Serwah’s cherished pastime is simply “Doing Nothing.” She revels in the serene pleasure of reclining and granting herself a well-earned respite from her professional commitments. Serwah’s heart overflows with gratitude, cherishing the gift of life itself. She no longer takes life for granted, acutely aware of its preciousness, especially in a world where young lives are sometimes cut short. Her love for her homeland, Ghana, is as strong as a superhero’s cape—it never loses its power! To her, there’s no place like home, with its rich culture, vibrant communities, and the warmth of fellow Ghanaians. As she embraces this love, she also extends a heartfelt wish: “God bless our Homeland Ghana and make our nation great and strong!” On her birthday, Serwah’s wish is beautifully simple: she desires an abundance of pure, genuine love above all else. Heartfelt connections and affection are the most cherished gifts she could receive. Serwah The Birthday Journal 5

Born to a Hopsan mother, Elizabeth (Hopsa 1963), and with a Hopsan older sister, Awushie (Hopsa 1986), I eagerly awaited my turn to attend Holy Child School in Cape Coast, fondly known as Angel’s Hill. My younger sister, Enyo (Hopsa 1993), was bursting with excitement as she became one of the youngest students admitted to her class. The school exceeded our family’s expectations, and our time on the hill was truly invaluable. Holy Child instilled in us enduring lessons of sisterhood, hard work, and resourcefulness that continue to shape my life today. One memorable Wednesday night at Holy Child, around 7:30 pm, I, as the prep prefect of the upper school block, struggled to get the girls to settle down. Rumours were swirling that Madam High Heels was nearby, and everyone was feeling quite anxious. I Adzo From Prep Prefect to Queen Diva couldn’t help but wonder if someone had started this rumour simply to end prep early, before the usual 9:15 pm. Needless to say, we finished prep ahead of schedule, and back at my dorm in St. Maria’s, it remained the topic of conversation. The thrilling tales of Madam High Heels added an air of mystery and excitement to our school days. I loved how we, as sisters, supported each other through all the joys and challenges of boarding school. My St. Maria’s dormmates and I shared secrets during late-night talks and supported each other through tough times. Among my fondest memories are the lively entertainment nights and being naughty as juniors. School was fun, and we created a strong bond that has lasted many decades after graduation. As November 2023 approached, I knew I wanted to celebrate my 50th birthday, but I wasn’t sure exactly what I wanted to do. I shared my concerns with Serwah, my Event Guru (also my Christ The King/Hopsa BFF), and she was so excited, taking the ‘last-minute’ planning to another level. I bounced around several ideas. She would say, “Tell me what you want,” and I would talk plenty. Then she would say, “Let us sleep over it,” and boom, in the morning she would call and present my ideas in a mind-blowing way. We dreamt, and our dreams translated into awesomeness and beautiful memories. It was exactly (even more than) the way I had dreamed it. I am thankful to my family, loved ones, friends & ever-dynamic Hopsan Sisters for making my day wonderful. I felt like a Queen Diva—blessed, dazed, overwhelmed, and so, so loved. At 50, I embrace thismilestonewith fortitude, grace, and a desire to make an impact. I am determined to continue living life to the fullest, savouring every moment, and making a positive difference in the world. Looking to the future, I dream of visiting and exploring space. 6 The Birthday Journal

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In every class, there’s always one person with a set of teeth so perfect and glistening white that they could be on a toothpaste commercial. Ours was Annette. The icing on the cake was her infectious laughter, which rang through St Joseph’s house like a delightful melody, brightening everyone’s day. Her radiant smile was a permanent fixture on her face, lighting up every room she entered and making even the gloomiest of days feel sunnier. As Annette turns 50, she continues to shine with the same grace and joy that defined her Holy Child school years. Her laughter remains infectious, her smile as dazzling as ever, and her spirit just as uplifting. Here’s to celebrating the wonderful Hopsan, Annette, and the many years of joy and radiance she has brought into the lives of those around her. Happy 50th, Annette! The Girl with the Perfect Smile Turns 50 Annette 12 The Birthday Journal

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Meet Hopsan Margaret. Margaret is the eldest of three Hopsans in her family. Her stories of Holy Child motivated her younger sisters and cousins to attend Holy Child. A woman of grace and strength, Margaret dreams of venturing beyond Earth’s bounds, yearning to witness our planet’s beauty from space and float weightlessly among the stars. ✨ As a public health specialist, Margaret empowers individuals and families to make informed decisions about their well-being. Her love for children drives her commitment to positively impact lives. Outside work, Margaret finds solace in swimming, a hobby she embraced while watching her children grow. Nelson Mandela’s legacy deeply inspires her. His unyielding spirit for human rights fuels her passion for justice and compassion. Gratitude fills Margaret’s heart as she celebrates her 50th birthday, valuing life’s precious gift. Her wish: the freedom to pursue her passions and explore endless possibilities. As we honour Margaret, let her tenacity and pursuit of dreams inspire us all. Here’s to the next 50 years of adventure and fulfilment! Margaret Grace, Strength, and Dreams Celebrating Margaret at 50 14 The Birthday Journal

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Elaine Adjoa Embil House: St. Anne’s What were the highlights of your time at Holy Child? I tell everyone that I have over a hundred sisters, and that’s what Holy Child School gave me. My highlights were the beautiful people I grew up with. The highs were always celebrated, and you were never alone during the lows either. What valuable lessons from Holy Child have stayed with you throughout your life? Being each other’s keepers. Praying always and looking out for the less fortunate. “Actions, not words,” which urges me to show up always. What is your fondest memory at Holy Child? It all began one afternoon in class 3C during Ms. Gyimah’s English lesson. As the bell rang, signalling the end of the period, a few of us sitting at the back of the classroom were feeling mischievous. We took out our France Afrique textbooks and made jokes about “Pierre et Seydou,” “des beignets,” and “Aja Dudu” before our upcoming French lesson with Monsieur. Amid the jokes and chatter, the conversation drifted towards organising a talent show. But as ideas began to flow, one suggestion sparked another, and soon we found ourselves discussing the possibility of hosting a pageant for Form Threes. The classroom buzzed with enthusiasm as we tossed around ideas. Who would participate? How many contestants should there be? And who would judge this exciting event? Each question brought new energy to the discussion, and before long, we were all eager to contribute. Someone proposed the fabulous idea of bringing in an external photographer to capture the magic of the night. Everyone quickly agreed; it was the perfect touch to make our pageant memorable. Over the next few weeks, we dedicated ourselves to rehearsals in our various roles, planning and perfecting every detail. Excitement grew as the day approached. This was the first time a pageant was being organized in our school, as far as we knew, and the entire Form Three was buzzing with enthusiasm. 18 The Birthday Journal

Finally, the much-anticipated Saturday night arrived. Every girl in school seemed to be abuzz with excitement as the moment drew near. As the event commenced, the night felt electric. Contestants showcased their talents and poise while the judges deliberated. Each performance was met with cheers and applause, filling the air with infectious energy. At last, the moment came to crown our very own Miss Form Three. The thrill in the room was undeniable, and when the winner was announced, the joy was overwhelming. We had shared something truly special, and the memories created that night would last a lifetime. Looking back, it was more than just a pageant; it was a celebration of our creativity, camaraderie, and the spirit of our class. The excitement, laughter, and friendships forged during the process made it a priceless chapter in our school days! We’d love to hear about your future dreams! What’s on your bucket list? • To hire a personal chef and be a volunteer as a full-time job. • To be a celebrated writer. • To sit on a beach somewhere in the world watching the waves and sunset. What does turning 50 mean to you? Turning 50 for me means I can be myself without looking over my shoulder or caring who is watching. Fifty means having the wisdom to know what to hold on to and what to let go. Being 50 means being old enough to know to be grateful. Elaine The Birthday Journal 19

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Sylvia Dadson (Née Abankwa) House: Our Lady’s Highlights of My Time at Holy Child My years at Holy Child overflowed with priceless moments. Our Lady’s House was renowned for its lively spirit, and our dorm, especially, was the best. During siesta, while we were supposed to be in our nighties resting, a few of us would walk around the dorm… much ado about nothing. One day during afternoon siesta, armed with nail clippers and a stroke of curiosity, someone decided Genevieve’s nails needed trimming. The ensuing drama when the dorm woke up to find that Genevieve’s nails had been cut while she was sleeping is etched in our dorm’s history. At 12 years old, I had to grow up and learn how to avoid and escape trouble, especially with the seniors. I loved attending Mass, immersed in the beauty of our hymns. Those were some classic and beautiful songs we learned. One standout memory? Witnessing someone cook rice with an iron! Despite strict dorm rules against cooking, hunger and homesickness fueled creativity. That iron became an ingenious stove. Valuable Lessons from Holy Child Holy Child imparted invaluable lessons that shaped my life profoundly. Discipline, resilience, and adaptability becamemy pillars. I learned the art of balancing seriousness with joy, nurturing lasting bonds along the way. Fondest Memories with My Hopsan Sisters My fondest memories with my Hopsan sisters include rallying behind suspended friends, enduring collective punishments when our exam results mysteriously vanished, and the lively Interco times filled with singing and dancing. Future Dreams and Bucket List Looking ahead, my dreams beckon me to Rome (the Vatican) for spiritual enrichment. I yearn to explore new horizons and embrace adventure. After taking a break, I am eager to refocus on my career. Turning 50 Turning 50 signifies a blessing beyond measure for me, as I am healthy and strong. I view it as just a number and a reminder to continue living and enjoying my life without feeling old. It’s a time to keep doing God’s work and focus on the positives in life. The Birthday Journal 21

The Sue Mae @ 50 Favored & Fabulous Oseikrom - Baby Year: 1974 Susan Mary was born in Oseikrom, a vibrant city in the Ashanti Region of Ghana, known for its rich culture and history. As the youngest child, her early years were filled with love in her nurturing home. She became fluent in Twi, strengthening her identity and fostering strong family ties and community solidarity. Susan embraced the rich traditions of Oseikrom, including traditional drumming, dance, and storytelling, all of which reflect the community’s deep connection to its heritage. Cape Coast/Mampong - Student Life Years: 1980s Susan attended boarding school at Holy Child School in Cape Coast and later at St. Monica’s in Ashanti Mampong. These formative years were marked by fun and boisterous activities, academic achievements, and personal growth. She forged lasting friendships and built a solid foundation for her future endeavors. London – Adventures Years: 1990s In her early 20s, Susan ventured to London, embracing the city’s eclectic lifestyle. She was excited to reconnect with the place where her parents had lived for several years with her older Sue Mae siblings. Afterall, she was named Susan Mary after two kind-hearted ladies in London who supported her mother in caring for her older siblings, particularly her sister Lulu. Stafford – Joys of Motherhood Years: 2000s Susan settled in Stafford, where she experienced the joys of motherhood. Balancing her tertiary education, career, and family life, she found immense happiness and fulfillment in raising her children and creating a loving home. Global Citizen – Philanthropic Deeds, Sister, and Friend Years: Ongoing Throughout her life, Susan Mary, a woman of God, has embodied the essence of a global citizen, dedicating herself to philanthropic efforts that have touched countless lives. Her generosity and commitment to making a difference have led her to support various charitable causes in underserved communities. Beyond her charitable work, Susan is a beloved sister and friend, known for her consistent support, empathy, and humorous personalized videos that bring joy to others. Her ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds, coupled with her infectious humor, makes her a cherished presence. Sue Mae brings joy and style to every occasion, living her best life with grace and compassion. Her mantra is: “Globetrotting kakra, Humor kakra, and Fashionista kakra equals living my best life and staying golden.” Golden Jubilee Timeline Susan Mary, Sue Mae, Adjoa 22 The Birthday Journal

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As I turn 50, I reflect on the wisdom gained, meaningful experiences, and the journey embraced. Love, I’ve realized, is the true wealth of life, found in the relationships I’ve nurtured. Family, friends, and loved ones add color, joy, and meaning to my journey. I celebrate my jubilee year, praying for continued strength, love, and happiness in my relationships. These bonds make life fulfilling. I started my journey of personal growth and self-awareness at Holy Child School. It was a time filled with fun, self-discovery, and a fair share of mischief. Between pulling pranks on my classmates and skillfully avoiding consequences, I learned about my strengths, weaknesses, interests, and values. These lessons have tremendously guided my aspirations and most of my decisions to this day. I’m deeply grateful to God for life and sustenance. Thanks to my late dad for teaching me to be the star of my life, my late mom for showing me humility, my brother Joe Honny for his constant support, and my late brother Dr. Tony Honny for teaching me kindness. I’m also thankful for my daughters, who make parenting a breeze, and my husband, my voice of reason. If I could spend the rest of my life in one place, it would be my childhood home. Those carefree, fun-filled days shaped who I am today, full of warmth, love, and life lessons. My career journey led me from the corporate world to my true calling as a critical care nurse, inspired by the kindness of my father’s nurses. I strive to pay forward the compassion they showed us, recognizing the preciousness of every second. Outside of work, I cherish quiet evenings with my family, watching documentaries, and talking with my loved ones. I’ve worked intensely for many years, and now I make sure every minute counts. If I could meet any historical figure, it would be Maya Angelou. Her journey from adversity to triumph inspires me. “Courage is the most important of all virtues,” she’d say, reminding me of the strength needed to practice any virtue consistently. As I step into the next chapter of my life, still I rise. I celebrate life, feeling blessed, and wishing for more of God’s grace, wisdom, and good health. Celebrating 50 Years of Life and Lessons – Cindy Anita 24 The Birthday Journal

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Doing a photo shoot is a way of celebration in itself. I organized a photo shoot for my 50th birthday to celebrate this milestone in a way that embodies fun, futurism, and joy. The theme of the photo shoot was designed to reflect my optimistic outlook and adventurous spirit, capturing the essence of joy for what the future holds. It was my chance to create lasting memories, embrace my inner creativity, and mark this special occasion with a celebration that is both personal and inspiring. A Joyful and Futuristic Photo Shoot Mansa 26 The Birthday Journal

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Choose a Theme Decide on a theme that reflects your personality and interests. Whether it’s glamorous, vintage, futuristic, or nature-inspired, a clear theme will help guide the choice of outfits, props, and settings, making the photo shoot cohesive and fun. Invite Family, Friends, Besties and Classmates Include your loved ones in the photo shoot to make it more memorable. Their presence will add an extra layer of joy and significance to the celebration, creating shared memories that you will all cherish. Hire a Professional Photographer Invest in a professional photographer whose style you admire. Review their portfolio to ensure they can capture the essence of your celebration. A skilled photographer will help you feel comfortable and guide you through poses to ensure the best shots. Plan Your Outfits and Props Select outfits that make you feel confident and align with your chosen theme. Incorporate props that add a personal touch or enhance the theme, such as balloons, confetti, or items that represent your hobbies and passions. Choose the Right Location Pick a location that complements your theme and provides a beautiful backdrop for your photos. It could be a studio, a scenic outdoor spot, or a meaningful place like your home or a significant location that holds special memories. Have Fun and Be Yourself The most important aspect of the photo shoot is to enjoy the experience. Relax, be yourself, and let your joy and personality shine through. Genuine smiles and laughter make for the best photos, so focus on having fun and celebrating this special milestone 6tips for organizing a photo shoot for your 50th birthday 1 2 3 4 5 6 The Birthday Journal 29

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Lydia 36 The Birthday Journal

Ganiat 38 The Birthday Journal

ThenOur Time at Holy Child School The Birthday Journal 39

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NOW Life Beyond the School Gates 44 The Birthday Journal

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HEREWE ARE 1. Join we now as friends, and celebrate The unity we share, all as one, Keep the fire burning, kindle it with care, And we’ll all join in and sing. Chorus Here we are, all together; As we sing our song joyfully; Here we are, joined together, As we pray we’ll always be. 2. Glorify The Lord With All Our Voices, Show HimWe’re Sincere By All Our Deeds; Shout The Joys Of Freedom Everywhere, And We’ll All Join In And Sing. Chorus 3. Let Us Make The World An Alleluia, Let Us Make The World A Better Place; Keep A Smile Handy, Lend A Helping Hand, Let Us All Join In And Sing. Chorus City of God Song by Dan Schutte and St. Louis Jesuits Awake from your slumber arise from your sleep a new day is dawning for all those who weep. The people in darkness have seen a great light the lord of our longing has conquered the night. Let us build the city of God may our tears be turned into dancing for the lord our light and our love has turned the night into day. We are sons of the morning, we are children of day. The one who has loved us has brightened our way. The lord of all kindness has called us to be a light for his people to set their hearts free. Songs We Love 50 The Birthday Journal

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