Toshmans Magazine

Content Theo’s Groovy Eighties Extravaganza Nana Ama’s Unforgettable 40th Birthday Bash My Fortieth Birthday Beyond Borders in Dubai An Inspiring 90-Year Journey Reflections on Turning 50 Glitz, Glamour and Unapologetic Celebration 6 11 15 20 24 28 3 The Birthday Journal

Back in the vibrant year of 1984, there I was – a spirited but shy ten-year-old girl, navigating life with a delightful mix of lessons, giggles, and dreams of grand adventures. However, my days at Christ the King school were shadowed by my shyness and reserved nature, which seemed to define much of my existence. The turning point came when the school announced a grand play, and excitement buzzed through our classroom. The desire to be the lead in that play ignited a flame within me, but my shyness held me back. Doubt clouded my thoughts, and the idea of the Assistant Headmistress, Mrs. Quaidoo, selecting me for such a role seemed like an impossible dream. Yet, within the depths of my tender heart, a seed of determination was planted. “I will be a lead in a play somewhere,” I whispered to myself, unwilling to let my shyness define my dreams. So, I turned to my sphere of influence – my home. At home, I gathered my friends from the neighborhood and my siblings. “We’re going to act out a play!” I declared, my eyes sparkling with newfound confidence. With enthusiasm, I became the lead and took charge of directing the play. After school, we practiced tirelessly, turning our living room into a stage where dreams unfolded. In my element, I convinced my mother, Mama Monica, to invite her friends to witness our creation. The notion of performing without an audience seemed foreign to me, and so Mama Monica, curious and supportive, agreed. Chairs were arranged, a makeshift stage was set, and the day arrived for our homegrown performance. The play unfolded with joy, laughter, and a unique charm that only I could bring. I reveled in my leading actress role as “Lawyer Rebecca,” orchestrating the play with infectious enthusiasm. At the play’s end, my mom surprised me with the concept of a “silver collection.” The term was foreign to me, but as the silver collection commenced, I witnessed a flood of generosity from the audience. People, moved by the creativity and effort of us young performers, contributed to our cause. It was a revelation for me – the realization that I could imagine my reality and create it, and that people were willing to support those who dared to dream. In that moment, the seed planted in my young mind blossomed into a powerful notion – the futuristic concept of creativity, fun performance, and fundraising. It was not just about putting on a play; it was about creating something unique, inspiring others, and receiving support from a community that believed in dreams. As I celebrate my 50th birthday, I look back on that pivotal play from 40 years ago and thank my parents, especially my mom, for encouraging me to become “Lawyer Rebecca.” It was a moment that shaped my understanding of the joy of imagination, the power of creativity, and the beauty of a supportive community rallying behind dreams. Mansa Agyare Founder, The Birthday Journal The Joy of Imagination 4 The Birthday Journal

Mansa Agyare Founder, The Birthday Journal 5 The Birthday Journal

T H E O Theo’s Groovy Eighties Extravaganza January ‘THEO’S DISCO PARTY,’ the words, set against a 3D backdop, which has a photo of the biggest boom box ever. There is no telling that this party would be filled with serious jamming and fun. And at this time the lights haven’t even come up, but when they do, oh magical! The whole place is suddenly transformed into an eighties disco hall, with bright blue lights, and the boom box becomes an array of dazzling purple and gold lights, flashing intermittently. Now the DJ begins to rehearse spinning to try out his machine, with Kool & the Gang’s “Celebration” going on in the background. Yahoo! This is your celebration Celebrate good times, come on Let’s celebrate! And like a honey bee which has just smelt out nectar, birthday boy, Theodore Kwaku Kwaa Asampong, begins to gravitate towards the dance floor. Ei! Mr. DJ, who asked you to start the music? Birthday boy, bobbing his head so that the big afro wig on his head is going poof, poof, somehow slides onto the dance floor. With his big afro wig, and gold jacket with brown flared trousers, he looks like a modern-day version of the Cool & The Gang members. Now, he is on the dance floor, flapping his wings like a butterfly, bending at the knees and getting up, and swaying from left to right. This dance floor hasn’t seen anything yet. As the guests begin to arrive, ladies in beautiful shimmery outfits, gentlemen in casual disco wear, Theo and Mono make time to greet and welcome each guest. As ever the life of the party, Theo is everywhere; slapping old friends on the back and bursting into laughter, reminiscing old times with friends, treating elderly guests with reverence, and catching younger shyer guests and coercing them to the dance floor to dance with them. At the back of the building is a swimming pool, lit all around with bright lights. As soon as the birthday boy gets there, he is flanked by Samba dancers, dressed in carnival-style outfits. By now the whole place is jam-packed with guests, and the atmosphere is super bubbly; old friends are catching up on old times, A group of men friends are seated in the cigar lounge, smoking away and fraternizing, there is a lot of laughter and banter everywhere. “Ladies and gentlemen!” “Ladies and gentlemen,” the M.C. for the day yells out, hitting a spoon against a wine glass to get some order as he begins the ceremony and proposes a toast. As the toast is proposed, funny but nice details of Theo’s life begin to emerge from The Birthday Journal. From how he was almost named “Theophilus’ instead of ‘Theodore,’ because of the carelessness of a prying nurse, to when he started school, and refused to sit with peers, opting rather to sit in his elder brother’s class, which he did for a week, and then to the time he sold local fabrics for his aunt at Koforidua market, how he would befriend the market women, and by doing so, ended up selling more fabrics than his aunt. As well as, how well he adjusted when he joined his parents and siblings in the UK at the age of sixteen, in spite of it being a radically new experience for him. Actually, he attended a very good school, 6 The Birthday Journal

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was brilliant, really aspired, and earned a place in one of the best universities in the UK. His parents and siblings also have a lot to say about him. Kwaku, as they fondly call him, knew how to make them laugh, is competitive, kind, inspiring, caring, and passionate. They even tell of howhe is a high achiever, disciplined, considerate, respectful, persistent, honest, funny, confident, hardworking, and solution-oriented. Of course the toast cannot end without an allusion to Theo’s giving nature, how he would dress up as Santa every Christmas and pass gifts around, or for that matter, his love for dancing. As they end the toast, three loud cheers are raised in Theo’s honor, as the food, small chops and drinks begin to flow. And then of course the nice Gelato ice cream stand. With each ‘fans’ that his family ‘blow’ him, the big crowd of guests do a wild cheer. The evening’s highlights included the presence of Theo’s brother George who had flown in from the UK, a heartfelt message from his son TJ who couldn’t attend, the lively Samba dancers, a captivating performance by Kwabena Kwabena. Amomentarily distraught Mono recounts a minor mishap involving Theo’s birthday cake, which took a tumble but was fortunately salvageable. Yet, given the overall joyous atmosphere, it’s doubtful that anything could have truly dampened Theo’s spirits at his party. After this, the guests and hosts launch into a karaoke display; a mixture of professional and amateur-like voices renting the air, as they sing along to the DJ’s collection of the eighties disco songs. You may wonder where birthday boy is. Where else, but on the dance floor, holding up one leg and hopping on the other, backsliding and front sliding, doing a waltz here, and a waltz there, holding his hands up to his head, and then, his stomach, as if he is in pain, boxing his hands in the air as he sways from side to side. Whatever music the DJ plays, birthday boy has a step for it. For those trying to compete with him on the dance floor, watch out! While you may get home with loads of pain and aches, he would head straight for bed, and delve right into a dancing dream. 9 The Birthday Journal

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She is vivacious, so I am not surprised when Nana Ama, the celebrant I am interviewing, says about herself: “I am a very happy-go-lucky person and optimistic to a fault. I love the design business. As a child, my mom would drop me off at my uncle’s on weekends, and I would be given an easel as soon as I got there to express my creativity.” I can see that Nana Ama is a proper ‘birthday person,’ and I feel the nostalgia in her voice as she gives a rundown of why she always celebrates her birthday. “I blame my love for birthdays on my father,” she says with a chuckle. Being his only daughter, my dad doted on me. There was never a single birthday that I did not celebrate. Then she lowers her voice and says softly and lovingly, “You won’t believe it, but my dad never celebrated himself.” I can see that she misses him. “Yes,” she says coming back to the present, “I am a proper birthday person.” Obviously so, because her fortieth birthday celebration was the talk of the town for days on end. So, I am quite surprised when she says of the day: “The interesting thing is, I never meant to celebrate my fortieth birthday. For some reason, I was bored with celebrations. Being an event planner, I felt like I had seen it all. Anyway, two and a half weeks to my birthday, and I began to have a change of heart.” Looking through her fortieth milestone birthday pictures, I can’t help but add ‘wacky’ to her list of personality traits. The reason? The ‘crazy’ theme she chose for her birthday. I want to know why she chose such a theme. “I knew that whatever theme I chose had to be different enough to excite me. Now, forty years old was a new phase for me, an entry into the future. Thus, the ‘futuristic’ theme.” Futuristic Festivities February “ N A N A A M A Nana Ama’s Unforgettable 40th Birthday Bash 11 The Birthday Journal

What I am thinking now is how did she even begin to put this theme together? As if she can read my mind, she says, “I watched a lot of futuristic things, movies, and music videos; I also researched a lot of AI stuff. I wanted my guests to feel like they had entered the future. As an events planner, I knew that the theme had to translate into everything: my outfit, the guests’ outfits, the ambiance, the food, the drinks, the font of the invitation cards, etc.” I am beginning to wonder whether her friends were on the same page with her on this birthday theme. “My friends thought the theme was bonkers. I needed to show them what ‘futuristic’ looked like, so I printed futuristic clothing and sent it to them, as well as links to musical videos with futuristic themes.” Then I wondered how she put the look together. “I wanted the inside of the spaceship to look real. It had to look like we were lifting up from earth. To do this, we had to work with a lot of experts. We used a lot of LED, neon lighting, as well as special effects. The food was also customized, and the cocktails came in a lot of purples and blues. We gave our female ushers silver updos, and they wore white pencil dresses with silver cuffs on their neck and arms and white boots. Our female waitresses were in short white dresses with harnesses, silver bob wigs, silver eyelashes, and thigh-high boots, while the male ushers were in white jumpers with silver lining, white boots and cyclops, and we sprayed their hair white. We also had masqueraders on stilts with big black helmets and neon clothing, and there were astronauts in real astronauts’ garb. Then, there was a scientist wearing a gas mask, lab coat, and a helmet. We had a big forty-footer container that we made into a neon-blue tunnel. When our guests entered the spaceship, it looked so real that they were in such awe. My cake was made like the solar system. My outfit was also futuristic; everything was either gold, silver, or metallic.” Nana Ama is so funny, chatty, and bubbly. This rundown she has given me has been interspersed with soft chuckles, hearty laughter, loads of ‘ei’s,’ and many ‘I have forgotten; old age is catching up with me.’ When I ask whether her friends got the concept, she launches into one long round of laughter before clapping her hands and saying: “My guests killed it. Herh! People wore neon shades and all sorts of weird stuff; capes, leathers, helmets; outlandish things. It was an experience. Another thing that wowed people was my entry. I entered the tunnel with two of my friends, and we were surrounded by my heavy-set ‘dogs’ who were in black patent jackets and heavy neck chains. By the time they walked us to the entrance of the ship, my choreographers were already there and doing a breakdance. Before anyone could say ‘Jack,’ me and my two friends had joined in the choreography and were matching the dancers step for step. What? People were amazed! Herh! It was fun! There were also fireworks when I cut my cake. It was amazing. Another interesting highlight of the day was when R2Bees arrived. People went wild. It was nostalgic.” She bursts into one of R2Bees’ songs, “walahi,” and I can’t help but sing along. Afterward, I ask if she had experienced any challenges while preparing for the day. “There were a few challenges, of which the most was ordering the things we needed to make the whole thing come together from Amazon and Alibaba. It was important that the items arrived on time. I needed the look to come together. Even sourcing things locally was difficult. Also, getting the neon lights to the channel was also difficult. All in all, it was a super fun day, and I will do it again if I have to.” 12 The Birthday Journal

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My Fortieth Birthday Beyond Borders in Dubai March As soon as we landed in Dubai, my face lit up with excitement, a wide smile breaking across my lips as I looked at my husband and whispered, “Thank you.” This was not our first time in Dubai; we had come here on my thirty-ninth birthday. That day, I casually told my husband that I wanted to spend my fortieth birthday in Dubai. Unbeknownst to me, he had kept that request in his head. Six months before my birthday, he informed me that we were going away to Dubai for my fortieth birthday, and we were bringing along forty of our closest family and friends. It was a pleasant surprise, and I remember clasping my hands to my chest, eyes widening in amazement as I whispered, “Oh gosh! How extremely exciting.” Friends and family flew in from the United States, the United Kingdom, and Ghana. Later that night, as we sat in the spellbinding atmosphere of Thiptara, inspired by the beauty and culture of Thailand, we took in breathtaking views of the majestic Burj Khalifa and the Dubai fountains with their magical colors. My fortieth birthday celebration had started, and between indulging in the exquisite dinner with our forty guests, friends made speeches and raised toasts. I felt extremely special in my glitzy sequined couture dress. At that moment, Anthea, an old schoolmate fromMfantsiman Girls High School in Cape Coast, delighted our friends with how she first met me in secondary school form one and the escapades we engaged in thereafter. It was touching. A H E L W A N 15 The Birthday Journal

few minutes later, waiters brought in the cake, and everyone sang the happy birthday song. Just as I made to cut the cake, I heard my friends gasp; their eyes fixed in one direction. “Helwan, look,” my husband prompted, pointing me towards where all eyes were fixed. On the mighty towers of the Burj Khalifa, a big bright sign, made up of the finest lights, read, “HAPPY BIRTHDAY, HELWAN!” It was a sign shouting out for all the world to hear. Tears of joy gathered in my eyes as a warm feeling enveloped me, and I gave my husband the most tender look ever. This trip was already over the top, but this last gesture was the icing on the cake for me. I had never felt so loved and special. You would have thought that this would end the day, but no. To the amazement of the guests, my sister Ramlat stood up with a mischievous look in her eyes, like a child hiding a treasure. She talked about the surprise in store for everyone, mentioning the Birthday Journal. “As you all know, Helwan is a very private person, but with the Birthday Journal, you’re going to get to know her more.” The guests lit up immediately, each eager to get their copy. Some friends even asked for autographs. It was more icing on my cake. It was a beautiful concept because a lot of people throw birthday parties, but not a lot distribute birthday journals. My friends still talk about it, and through the Birthday Journal, people have actually gotten to know me. Initially, people thought I was too distant, but as they go through the Birthday Journal, they realize, “Oh, Helwan was not as standoffish as we thought she was.” Love that. The next three days in Dubai were spent going on safaris and sightseeing. It was a wonderful birthday celebration. 16 The Birthday Journal

As brilliant as the celebrations were, they were not without challenges. For starters, it was not as if we were throwing the party in our own backyard; it was in a different country. The trick was that I did it all with a planner. She was awesome. Additionally, a few friends were unable to join the Safari trip, which left me feeling a bit disappointed. My 40th birthday party is the biggest I have had in my whole life, and I wanted to use the opportunity to bring my close friends and family together. I also got the opportunity to reveal myself through the Birthday Journal. Again, as I hit 40, I’m taking time to ‘smell the roses.’ I intend to learn from every opportunity that comes my way, whether good or bad. Also, I’m being very intentional with my faith. I will be participating more in church activities, doing more humanitarian charity stuff, and spreading my love for Jesus publicly. You might find it hard to believe, but I’ve started looking forward to my 45th birthday. Hopefully, we will spend it in another destination—to be revealed soon. I am so grateful for the Birthday Journal. I hope that in some years to come, grandkids would see it and go like, “Nana was beautiful.” Hopefully, they’re going to go through the story and say, “Oh, that is where the faith comes from.” It’s like a gift from me to my generations to come. I can’t speak about it enough. I am already planning towards my forty-fifth birthday. I trust God that the future will be bigger than this. “ 17 The Birthday Journal

W A R R E N H U G H E S April The man on the Zoom platform was not almost ninety as we had been told; he was probably in his mid-seventies. Or so we thought. It turned out he was! Which was amazing. Reminiscing on that interview with Warren Hughes, we note that several things stood out, among which was his knack for remembering things, even in their littlest detail, was most striking for us. “I was born in Washington DC on April 16th, 1933. My forceps had slipped during childbirth, creating a facial nerve palsy; one that would leave me unable to blink and completely close my right eye for life. There were nine of us, which was good in a way because there was always someone to talk to. However, there were negatives too; we were always hungry.” Also outstanding are his recollections of the 1940s American recession. On December 7, 1941, at eight years old, I was reading a comic when it was announced over the radio that Japan had attacked Pearl Harbor, thrusting America into World War II. An Inspiring 90-Year Journey Warren Hughes’ Recollections and Reflections 20 The Birthday Journal

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His memories of his education are also spot-on. “I started kindergarten at Morgan Elementary School in September 1946, after which I attended Banneker Junior High School, and then Armstrong Technical High School. On my last day of high school, a life-changing intervention frommy English Teacher, Mrs. Jewel, saw me apply for admission to Ohio State University, which I got. Even better, I won a Willard Association Scholarship! These were some of the momentous periods in my life. Ohio State University was a big thing for me. There weren’t many blacks in engineering, but most of the students were very friendly, and the teachers treated me the same as any other student. I did eventually graduate with a degree in Welding Engineering.” One day, feeling bored at my summer job at the Oldsmobile Parts Casting Factory in Defiance, Ohio, I pondered about all the girls I knew at one time or another. When I got to the name ‘Barbara Jean Jackson,’ I stopped, nodded, and whispered to myself, “She is it.” Something felt right within me. After a long period of dating, Warren went on to marry Barbara. Then is his vivid recollection of the birth of his sons Renard and Duane. “In October 1962, our oldest child, Renard was born. It was a moment of anguish because my wife developed preeclampsia, and our son could not breathe. He was hospitalized for several months due to complications at birth. Duane was born in March 1964, but his birth was easier, and we had benefited from the experience of our first child.” Finally, his recollection of his career journey. “When I finished University, I worked at North American Aviation from June 1956 to October 1956. In September 1959, I got a more permanent position in Cincinnati, Ohio, working for General Electric, after which a very good vacancy opened up in General Electrics, Schenectady, New York, in 1975, and I was transferred there. Finally, in 1981, Martin Marietta Aerospace Group offered me an executive position in Orlando Florida. It was after this that I retired.” Another thing I took note of during the interview was that, for Warren, Family is everything. Right from the beginning, his idea was to protect his young family. “The first thing I did when I got married was to take Barbara away from the Washington culture. I did not want interference in our new marriage. I believe this kept us together. We have been married for 64 years this year. Upon marrying her, I gave her two options; it was either she was going to work or she would go to college. She chose the education path, and now has a doctorate. Education was a big thing in our family; we built a library for our children and encouraged them to read. We also spent on their learning and development, spending money on martial arts, swimming, piano, foreign languages, acting, and putting them in the best schools possible. Renard needed special care, and we committed to giving him a good quality of life.” Importantly, Warren’s love for self-improvement is something he has passed on to his children and grandchildren. 22 The Birthday Journal

“Sophomore year at university was very hard; it was becoming difficult to survive. It was at this point in my life that I read Ayn Rand’s novel ‘The Fountainhead,’ and that was a turning point in my life. The book taught the virtue of individualism. It changed the course of my life philosophically, and I really had to work on myself to become a college student. Soon, I began to make the Dean’s list. As I married, I delved further into Ayn Rand’s teaching, where I discovered Nathaniel Branden who propagated Objectivism. He founded the Nathaniel Branden Institute, for which I became a representative in the Cincinnati area between the periods of 1963 to 1969. I have passed down some of these concepts to my children, particularly the concept of self-reliance.” Another admirable self-improvement step Warren took was a reduction in his weight. “At a point in time, I was grossly overweight. I started exercising and trying to get in better shape. I started a fasting program and lost about 50 pounds. Then after a relapse, I took up another program and lost all the weight down to 140 pounds, which is amazing.” Warren is also concerned about his entire extended family, because of which they celebrate the Hughes Family Reunion each year. “All nine of my siblings started this Hughes Family Reunion. The first of which started in 1972. We host it every year, and a different sibling gets to host each year. Currently, there are only four of us alive, and as we are getting older, we have begun to hand the baton over to the younger generation.” Finally, Warren is keen to keep his family history alive and is currently documenting their family history together with one of his cousins. “I am descended from the famous Elizabeth Hemming, owned at various points in time by three first families of Virginia, including the JeffersonRandolph family. Elizabeth’s daughter, Betty, was the first Hemming to go to Monticello when she was passed down to John Wayles’ daughter, Martha, who got married to Thomas Jefferson. A very respected personality, she was also the last slave to leave Monticello.” 23 The Birthday Journal

There is something about birthdays that helps you reflect, and turning 50 in May was no exception—50! Wow! Every one of those years has been a gift from God. When I look back at my current fitness, I am humbled by the journey that spans over 5 years. Here are a few tips that have helped me on this journey Establish a Routine - This is always a challenge for many. Most of my mentors preferred exercising at dawn, and that required being diligent with organising. Planning your next day could start simply by picking your clothes for the gym and setting your alarm. Set Realistic Goals - “At your own pace” is what I seldom say to new fitness and well-being converts! It’s not a race; instead, you are establishing a new long-term lifestyle. My focus has always been to be a better version of myself. So, leave your ego at the door and start small. Find Enjoyable Activities - My love for music has been a great part of my journey. I encourage people to exercise with music Reflections on Turning 50My Journey of Fitness and Growth May K O F I L I A N G 24 The Birthday Journal

My focus has always been to be a better version of myself. So, leave your ego at the door and start small. “ 25 The Birthday Journal

because the rhythm gets you into the motion, and you get more repetitions in. Prioritise Recovery - A very crucial part of this lifestyle that is taken for granted. People who train in the morning daily are normally in bed by 7:30 pm-8 pm. The time of day you train should help determine when your recovery time should be. Recovery also requires getting your diet right, and advice I have given to my clients is to learn to eat to fuel your body. Build a Support System - Surround yourself with like-minded individuals. Also, learn to serve your family and very good friends. During this journey, I have felt very welcome in the Ghanaian fitness community, who have become family. Some of these experts are mostly athletes, coaches, and other experts in their fields of endeavour. This fitness community is quite diverse and stimulates a lifestyle in Exercise Nutrition, Health, and Fashion. It has become a hub for creative ideas and potential business ventures, and I am glad to be part of it. Let your birthday be a turning point where your lifestyle reflects your best self. Be about it! Kofi Laing, the founder of the fashion brand Kokudé, has a background in retail in the UK and media in Ghana. Five years ago, he found God, and it was time for him to awaken his creative senses in his first, second, and third loves: fashion, fitness, and fine art. These three areas have been his focus for the past five years, and due to God’s grace only, he has remained disciplined, and they have continued to sustain him. It’s also his plan one day to take on his final love for interiors and exteriors. “ 26 The Birthday Journal

Let your birthday be a turning point where your lifestyle reflects your best self. Be about it! “ 27 The Birthday Journal

A K O S U A L A R B I June In a world often filled with the glitz and glamour of success stories, it’s the tales of tenacity and unapologetic self-celebration that truly shine. Akosua Larbi’s journey epitomizes this—a story of triumph, marked by an indomitable spirit that refuses to be subdued by life’s trials. Akosua Larbi, affectionately known as “Prayerworks,” passionately shared her belief in the transformative power of prayer. In 2006, she endured the heartbreak of losing her first child, Naasei, shortly after birth—a devastating blow. In 2009, amidst struggles with infertility, her joy knew no bounds when she discovered she was pregnant with twins. However, at twenty-two and a half weeks, complications threatened the twins’ health. Through unwavering prayer and divine intervention, she successfully carried them to full term at thirty-eight weeks. In 2015, Akosua established the Naasei Memorial Foundation, honoring her late son. This heartfelt initiative began with providing preemie babies with appropriately sized diapers, Glitz, Glamour and Unapologetic Celebration Akosua “Prayerworks” Larbi at 50 28 The Birthday Journal

Mom was my cheerleader, my sister, my best friend, my critic, and my confidante “ 29 The Birthday Journal

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resonating deeply with grateful mothers. What began as a simple Facebook endeavor blossomed into an annual tradition, with Akosua personally delivering essentials to hospitals across Ghana. Following her mother’s passing in 2021, Akosua embarkedon a personal mission to connectwith and support mothers in need. Visiting hospitals across Nkawkaw, Cape Coast, Korle-bu, and Koforidua, she personally delivered over 300 boxes of preemie diapers. The joy of witnessing her impact became an integral part of her healing process. “Mom was my cheerleader, my sister, my best friend, my critic, and my confidante,” Akosua fondly reminisced.Hermother’sresilience,entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication to community development ignited Akosua’s passion for philanthropy—a path she envisions wholeheartedly embracing in the future. Transitioning to celebration, Akosua’s 50th birthday extravaganza was nothing short of spectacular. Over three days, she pulled out all the stops to commemorate this milestone. Every detail of the party exuded sophistication and style, from the elegant decor to the shimmering lights. Guests were welcomed with champagne flutes and hors d’oeuvres, setting the stage for a night of luxury and indulgence. The atmosphere buzzed with music, laughter, and clinking glasses—a true celebration of life. From the exquisite cuisine to the captivating performances, every aspect of the event reflected Akosua’s elegance and penchant for extravagance. It was an unforgettable evening of opulence and splendor, where Akosua and her guests reveled in the magic of the moment. Throughout the festivities, Akosua generously shared her Birthday Journal—a captivating chronicle of her life’s journey. As friends and family delved into its glossy pages, they witnessed the remarkable story of a woman who turned trials into triumphs. In a society often fixated on success, Akosua Larbi’s story serves as a poignant reminder that fortitude, prayer, and embracing one’s journey are the true hallmarks of a life well-lived. Her legacy, embodied in the Naasei Memorial Foundation, stands as a beacon of hope and compassion—a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit. 31 The Birthday Journal

01 WhiteChalk B E C A U S E I N Y O U R D R E A M S E V E R Y D E T A I L I S I M P O R T A N T

D R . F A N T A July Prelude I n his early days in secondary school, a young man, Augustus Eduafo, nowknown as Dr. Fanta, found himself caught in a daring escapade to watch the Italian action-comedy movie “The Three Fantastic Supermen.” Sneaking out with seniors, they were discovered by the imposing Senior Housemaster, Mr. C. O. Johnson. Confessions unfolded, and punishments were meted out, with Dr. Fanta, then a freshman, singled out for his “reckless behavior.” The incident marked the birth of his enduring nickname, “Fantaaastic,” later shortened to “Fanta.” The nickname, born out of an escapade to witness the extraordinary exploits of three superheroes, became a permanent part of his identity. The taunts of “Fantaaastic” on that fateful night have evolved into a moniker that has stuck with him through the years. Friends even affectionately refer to him as “Fantastic Fanta.” Years passed since that daring escapade, and as ‘Fantastic Fanta’ evolved into Dr. Fanta, the moniker became a symbol of resilience and joy. His faith in God played a pivotal role during challenging times, especially when he faced the loss of his first wife, Tina. Dr. Fanta candidly shared, “I believed in God at a time but wavered when I lost my first wife, Tina. But my faith in God was restored when I met LIFE ILLUMINATED THROUGH CELEBRATION Dr. Fanta @ 65 34 The Birthday Journal

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Jennifer. God is everything; He has been the centerpiece of my life.” Fast forward to his 65th birthday, where the echoes of youthful mischief blended seamlessly with a grand celebration in New Jersey, marking a chapter that beautifully intertwined his past escapades with a present filled with passions and milestones, and a deep-rooted faith. In the heart of New Jersey, Dr. Fanta’s 65th birthday celebration was more than just a milestone – it was a brilliantly crafted ode to his life, passions, and the era that shaped him. I take you on a journey through this three-day extravaganza, where the past and passions converged seamlessly. The event, themed around the roaring twenties, embraced Dr. Fanta’s love for glamour and sophistication. As guests crossed into the venue, a lady in red serenading with her violin set the stage, whisking everyone back in time. The ambiance, decked in red and gold, mirrored the opulence of the Art Deco era, an homage to Dr. Fanta’s love for highlife. The grand entrance, with showgirls dressed in resplendent white, was a nod to his passion for fashion, a trait inherited from his father. His dedication to dressing well, cultivated from a young age, became a cornerstone of the celebration, creating a visual spectacle. The musical lineup, featuring the likes of Kojo Antwi, Diana Hamilton, and the Tagoe Sisters, showcased Dr. Fanta’s profound love for music. The beats resonated with highlife melodies, echoing through the night and adding a personal touch to the celebration. It was an echo of his joy for parties, where he frequently meets celebrities through his wife’s renowned event planning business. Pyrotechnics illuminated the night, not just as a visual spectacle but a subtle nod to Dr. Fanta’s dedication as a Manchester United fan. It was a celebration that incorporated his passions seamlessly into every aspect, ensuring that the event was a true reflection of him. Jennifer’s heartfelt speech and Nakeeyat The Poet’s captivating verses added a touch of intimacy to the affair. The Birthday Journal, meticulously crafted, narrated the vibrant journey of Dr. Fanta’s extraordinary life – a journey shaped by resilience, love, family, faith, passions and an insatiable love for a good celebration. It is evident that this celebration wasn’t just about the passage of time; it was a harmonious blend of past experiences, present joys, and an unshakeable faith in God—a celebration that encapsulated the essence of Dr. Fanta’s remarkable life. 37 The Birthday Journal

At the tender age of eleven, I found myself in the frosty embrace of London, shielded from the biting cold by my bustling mother. The towering buildings and bustling streets were a stark contrast to the close-knit village I had left behind in Ghana. Little did I know that this chapter of my life would unfold a story of love, resilience, and a return to my roots. Separated parents and the solitude of London left me feeling like an only child, yearning for the warmth of my extended family in Ghana. Despite the initial loneliness, my father’s visits and shopping sprees in the West End brought moments of joy. The transition to Haggerston Secondary School marked the beginning of my secondary education in a single-sex environment, a change I embraced with curiosity. University life and a series of corporate roles followed, eventually leading me to a position at Clerical Medical Investment Group. Amid the hustle of corporate life, love found its way into my story. Harry entered my life, and together, we began dreaming of a future that involved returning to the land of our heritage. My Ghanaian Homecoming August J E N N I F E R A G Y E M A N 38 The Birthday Journal

39 The Birthday Journal

“What would you do if we moved to Ghana?” Harry’s question sparked conversations that had always lingered on the edges of our thoughts. The idea of raising our children in Ghana, surrounded by their cultural roots, had been a recurring theme in our discussions. The decision to make the move was not just about a change in geography; it was a deliberate choice to offer our children an upbringing grounded in their Ghanaian identity. The journey back home unfolded with meticulous planning. Setting a deadline, we sold our London house and shipped our belongings to Ghana. The prospect of entrepreneurship beckoned, and armed with training in Neuro-Linguistic Programming and image consulting, I founded ‘Amazing U.’ The Labone office space, though beautiful, echoed the uncertainties of entrepreneurship in an emerging economy. Networking, speaking engagements, and training became the stepping stones to opportunities, proving that sowing seeds in unfamiliar soil could yield a harvest of success. The challenges of paying bills and navigating the unpredictable waves of entrepreneurship were met with faith and a positive mindset. Connecting with returnee ladies and the formation of Sankofa International Ladies Association (SILA) provided a supportive community, an essential anchor in the tumultuous seas of change. The dream of building a home in Ghana took eight years to materialize, teaching us resilience, dedication, and the joy of seeing dreams come to fruition. As we settled into our new home, the applause from our children echoed the sentiments of disbelief turned into appreciation for our unrelenting commitment to family and heritage. Returning to Ghana granted me the priceless joy of spending over a decade bonding with my grandmother, who played a crucial role in shaping my upbringing. We shared laughter and joy while celebrating my 50th birthday in August 2023. The next month, on September 23, I went to visit her, and we flipped through my Birthday Journal, reveling in pride at the journey she had witnessed. Sadly, on October 2, only 9 days later, she fell, and at the remarkable age of 109, peacefully passed away on October 24th, 2023. Our last time together became an indescribably priceless moment, etched in my heart, Her wisdom, love, and the shared celebration of my life in Ghana deeply resonate with me. This incredible journey from the bustling streets of London to the comforting warmth of Ghana isn’t just about a series of events—it’s a deeply personal story of love, purpose, and resilience. It’s about rediscovering the profound importance of family ties and embracing the rich heritage and roots that have played a pivotal role in shaping who I am today. 40 The Birthday Journal

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D R . S U Z Y September In the town of Ada, where the river meets the sea, Dr. Suzy’s milestone birthday bash took place. We interviewed her, exploring the details of the three-day celebration that stood out for its intimate simplicity in contrast to exuberant norms. Dr. Suzy’s inspiration for the celebration traced back to her 40th birthday, an event that left lasting memories in the minds of her guests. Missing the celebration for her 45th birthday fueled her determination to go all out for her 50th. Her vision was clear – she wanted a celebration segmented to create unique and meaningful experiences for each guest. The festivities were set in motion with a morning of stories and appreciation, as the sun cast its golden glow on the beach. The attire was Caribbean-themed – long flowing skirts and shirts, sun hats, fabulous shades, and a touch of the yoyo necklace, creating a sea of vibrant colors against the green lawn and sandy beach. Celebrating milestone birthdays often conjures images of lavish parties and extravagant affairs, where the price tag seems to match the significance of the occasion. However, it doesn’t always have to be a costly endeavor. As we’ve learned from Dr. Suzy’s remarkable three-day extravaganza, financial prudence and creative collaboration can turn even the grandest celebrations into affordable yet unforgettable experiences. A Guide to Affordable Milestone Celebrations Dr. Suzy’s Glitzy Celebration on a Budget 42 The Birthday Journal

Collaborate with friends and family who have different talents and resources “ 43 The Birthday Journal

44 The Birthday Journal

In this guide, inspired by Dr. Suzy’s celebration for her 50th birthday, we’ll explore four financial tips curated by her to help you plan and execute your milestone birthday without breaking the bank. These tips offer practical insights into creating meaningful memories without the burden of excessive spending. Leverage Your Network Collaborate with friends and family who have different talents and resources. Dr. Suzy’s party showed how tapping into her network made a big difference. Friends pitched in with their skills, helped organize things, and even brought drinks and outfits. It made the celebration more interesting and saved a lot of money too. Plan Early and Delegate Start planning well in advance to avoid last-minute expenses. Dr. Suzy began the planning process a year ahead and formed subcommittees to delegate responsibilities among friends. This collaborative effort not only eased the workload but also ensured that each aspect of the celebration was wellmanaged without overspending. Strategic Financial Openness Consider being open about your financial constraints with your network. Dr. Suzy strategically opened a window for friends to offer support, emphasizing material contributions over cash. This approach allowed her to receive assistance in areas that matteredmost, such as drinks, transportation, and logistical support, making the celebration financially feasible. DIY Decor and Themes Get creative with do-it-yourself decorations and themes. Dr. Suzy’s Caribbean-themed celebration was brought to life with vibrant outfits, sun hats, and fabulous shades. Crafting your own decorations not only adds a personal touch but also saves money compared to buying expensive pre-made items. So, as you plan your own milestone celebration, consider the wisdom shared by Dr. Suzy. Sometimes, in the pursuit of memorable moments, the most significant gestures come from the heart, not the wallet. 45 The Birthday Journal

46 The Birthday Journal

“Here I am, still pinching myself, cruising in a car that felt like nothing more than a fantasy just a year ago. Back in July 2022, on the cusp of turning 50, I pondered what more life could offer since I already possessed most things. Yachts and such seemed too far-fetched, so I needed a fresh idea. Then, it hit me – a car! Playfully bantering with Ewurama, my life partner, about whether to indulge in a Bentley or a G-Wagen, I felt the thrill of a fresh and exciting challenge. Her teasing response, “Eiiiii, my Ashanti husband,” added a bit of humor to this challenge, enhancing the excitement of that dream possibly becoming a reality. After all, Eli, my son, would turn 16 in January 2023, and an extra car in the house wouldn’t be far-fetched. (Step 1: Planting the seed - The Idea) Dreams in Camouflage October Bonsu Ashanti Showboy B O N S U 47 The Birthday Journal

Before long, this question evolved into a regular jest among my circle: “Bentley or G-Wagen?” However, when Mansa, Ewurama’s cousin, paid a visit with her husband, I had no inkling that sharing my birthday car dilemma would kickstart a series of events. In October 2022, a FedEx package arrived on the eve of my 49th birthday with “The Birthday Journal” inscribed on the box. Opening up this package revealed a framed cover page reading, “Image is Everything: The Bentley vs. The Mercedes G-Wagen.” Mansa’s surprise elevated my birthday plans to a whole new level. Now I had a visual of what seemed possible. (Step 2: Visualise it!). June 2023 rolled around quite quickly. It was four months to my milestone celebration, and the idea of a 50th birthday adventure to Las Vegas with friends sounded great. The only hitch - I still hadn’t decided on the car. In a chat with Mansa, she asked if I had chosen a car. To my surprise, I confessed, “No, it won’t be the G-Wagen or the Bentley.” Those words hung in the air, and Mansa, ever curious, asked, “Any particular reason?” My response, “I don’t like either,” revealed a deeper truth - I hadn’t truly explored my interest in these cars. The price had dominated my thoughts, overshadowing the appeal of driving a luxurious masterpiece. Talking to Solomon Preko, who mentioned his neighbor owning a G-Wagen. Despite the opportunity to test drive it, I turned it down, inadvertently neglecting my own desires. This served as a poignant reminder that, in the pursuit of others’ happiness, we often sideline our own. I had to remind myself that achieving this goal was my responsibility and no one else’s. (Step 3: Self Motivation. You can do it!) August brought a turning point as I shifted blame, telling Ewurama, “You don’t seem concerned about my car-buying dilemma.” Her no-nonsense response, “How about we go look at cars this weekend?” marked the start of a real journey. We explored BMW, checked out Range Rover, fell in love but faced a 9-month wait. The destiny I’d overlooked all along surfaced - the G-Wagen. Testimonials boosted its appeal, especially one saying, “The hardest part of buying this car is the price, and the easiest part of owning it is the maintenance.” One morning, lying in bed, I asked Ewurama, “What do you think about me getting the G-Wagen?” Her straightforward “You deserve it” lit a fire under me. Scouring the internet, we found a G-Wagen at a local dealership. We visited, took it for a spin, and it felt like driving a beast – rugged yet luxurious. (Step 4: Get to Work) Negotiations continued for another two weeks, testing our patience and determination. Then, on the morning of the purchase, as the sun painted the sky with promise, I woke up early. With hope in my heart, I whispered a prayer to the heavens, “Giveme a sign, dear Lord.” The signs poured in like a waterfall of blessings. My wholemorningwas full of positives: I didn’t trip and fall, the boys didn’t call me from school that they left something at home, Ewurama didn’t text me that the school kidswerebeingbad,mysiblingsandparentsdidn’t send any negative texts. Signs poured in like blessings, affirming my decision. Looking back at The Birthday Journal, now a year old, I marveled at the power of speaking dreams into reality. (Step 5 Affirm it! Achieve it!). The G-Wagen, more than a car, stood as a testament to selfacknowledgment. It was a reminder that sometimes, in life’s theater, you must be your own leading star. The journey from a simple idea to a roaring engine beneath me showed me the incredible power of setting goals and taking the steps to bring them to life. No fancy words needed – just a simple reminder that dreams aren’t just for sleep; they’re for driving. So, set a goal. Why wait?” 48 The Birthday Journal

49 The Birthday Journal

As the candles flickered atop my decadent birthday cake, I found myself standing at the precipice of a new chapter, ready to embark on the next decade of my life. From my earliest years, I’ve been driven to embrace challenges and engage in various competitions, some leading to triumph while others brought valuable life lessons that shaped my character. Yet, on this milestone birthday, I couldn’t help but turn the spotlight inward, realizing the profound importance of telling my own story. In a world that often races past, celebrating the passage of time is a rare moment to pause, reflect, and weave the threads of our experiences into memories of personal growth. The act of storytelling on a milestone birthday is not merely a recounting of events but a profound acknowledgment of the journey we have undertaken and the wisdom gained along the way. There is an undeniable magic in the art of personal reflection, the key that unlocks the hidden chambers of our hearts, THE KANDu- IT EFFECT THE POWER OF STORYTELLING November M O S E S K A N D U R I 50 The Birthday Journal

Throughout my journey, I’ve faced moments of both triumph and adversity, and each experience has woven into the fabric of my character. My willingness to step up, compete, and sometimes stumble along the way has cultivated a spirit of resilience within me. “ 51 The Birthday Journal

allowing us to revisit moments of triumph, resilience, and even vulnerability. For instance, my life story demonstrates my determination. As a teenager, I embraced the spirit of persistence, no matter the obstacles. My days in secondary school marked the inception of my journey into entrepreneurship and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs). These experiences have molded me into a resilient and effective change-maker, equipping me with valuable skills to surmount life’s challenges. This journey has refined my problem-solving abilities and fortified my character, sharpening my leadership and advocacy skills to address vital issues and champion children’s rights. To celebrate my 40th birthday, I decided that telling my story authentically and unapologetically was the best gift I could give myself and my dear ones. As I delved into the pages of my own life, curated by The Birthday Journal, I uncovered not just a chronicle of events but also a reservoir of strength and lessons waiting to be shared. With time, I’ve learned to adapt to new circumstances, glean wisdom from my mistakes, and continue progressing. This capacity to rebound and persevere has made me resilient. Thus, even when life throws unexpected challenges my way, I remain optimistic, embracing the ups and downs with a smile and a “KAN DO IT” attitude, ever ready to face whatever comes my way. Documenting one’s story is a powerful act of self-discovery. It is an invitation to excavate the layers of our identity, tracing the evolution of our beliefs, aspirations, and the myriad of choices that shaped us. In this process, I found that my milestone birthday was not just a marker of time but a canvas upon which I could paint the colors of my personal narrative. The link between storytelling and personal growth is undeniable. It is through the recounting of our experiences that we find the courage to embrace change, forgive ourselves for missteps, and acknowledge the strength that resides within. In the pages of my own story, I discovered resilience in moments of adversity, grace in times of change, and the beauty of evolving into the person I am today. As I share my reflections, it becomes evident that storytelling is not just an exercise in nostalgia but a catalyst for future endeavors. The act of expressing our experiences transforms them into beacons of inspiration for others and a roadmap for our own continued growth. There is an alchemy in turning the pages of our lives into a narrative – it fosters a desire to explore the unknown, to seek deeper meaning, and to motivate oneself towards new and exciting horizons. Dear reader, as I pen down these thoughts, I invite you to consider the significance of telling your own story. Embrace the power of personal reflection, for in those moments lie the seeds of your own personal growth. Share your experiences, not just for the celebration of milestones but as a testament to the remarkable journey that is uniquely yours. Throughout my journey, I’ve faced moments of both triumph and adversity, and each experience has woven into the fabric of my character. My willingness to step up, compete, and sometimes stumble along the way has cultivated a spirit of resilience within me. I’ve come to understand that in both victory and defeat, there are invaluable lessons to be learned, character to be fortified, and personal growth to be achieved. I’ve learned that gratitude is a key to abundance. It’s in the moments of sincere thankfulness that I find the strength to persevere and keep striving towards my ambitions. This deep-rooted sense of gratitude, intertwined with my faith and prayer, not only sustains me through life’s complexities but also propels me forward. Let the narrative of your experiences be a beacon, inspiringothers andguidingyourself towards a future illuminated by the lessons of the past. Celebrate your milestones by telling your story, and in doing so, discover the transformative power of storytelling in your own remarkable journey. 52 The Birthday Journal

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