Strength and Resilience....

My recent journey to Ghana stirred unexpected emotions within me. As a Canadian visitor, stepping into the vibrant tapestry of Ghanaian culture opened my eyes to a world vastly different from my own. Amidst the bustling streets and lively markets, it was the resilience and resourcefulness of Ghanaian youth that left a lasting mark on my heart.

During my time in Ghana, I witnessed firsthand the early initiation of children into physical labor. Whether it was 4-year-old boys independently herding cattle in rural villages, or 7-year-old girls assisting in the markets of urban areas, the sight of young children actively engaged in productive work was everywhere. Their small hands worked tirelessly, their faces set in unwavering determination. From 2-year-old toddlers to 16-year-old adolescents, all displayed a strong sense of duty. Coming from a society where childhood is often synonymous with play and education, seeing Ghanaian youth shoulder such responsibilities from a young age was a stark contrast.

I spent three days on the pediatric floor at TTH. Within my time at the hospital, I observed sibling connections, physical and mental toughness, and independence. One moment stands out vividly: watching a 9-year-old boy tenderly care for his 4-year-old brother in the absence of other family support. Bathing him, administering medications, and cleaning up after him—tasks that would overwhelm many adults—yet this young boy carried them out gracefully. 

Their bond, forged through hardship, was a poignant reminder of the resilience ingrained in Ghanaian youth. Despite facing pain and malaise, these children at TTH rarely expressed complaints. Their ability to endure suffering with a smile, console their families in times of distress, and remain selfless in their actions left a profound impact on me. They showed me the depth of human resilience, compassion, and strength, teaching me invaluable lessons through their silent struggles and gentle gestures.

Moreover, the responsibility and resilience shouldered by Ghanaian children from a tender age isn’t confined to the hospital walls—it is everywhere, in every age group. Infants seek comfort from the welcoming arms of strangers, toddlers independently navigate busy markets to buy family essentials, and preschoolers trek miles to fetch water. School-aged children nurture their younger peers while adolescents willingly shoulder burdens to support their elders, showcasing a remarkable sense of self-reliance that defies their years. Their independence is a testament to their resilience and the harsh realities they confront daily. And yet, they still smile, they still laugh, they still play.

Children in Ghana are also incredibly resourceful. Their resourcefulness knows no bounds as they transform discarded objects into toys and treasures, turning everyday moments into opportunities for creativity and imagination. In their makeshift soccer fields and impromptu dance performances, they find solace and camaraderie. Their resourcefulness to find joy has taught me that happiness isn't found in material abundance but in the richness of human connection and shared experiences.

Since my arrival in Ghana, I have witnessed the boundless potential that lies within each child. As I return to my Canadian home, I carry with me the lessons learned from Ghanaian youth—lessons of resilience, determination, and the transformative power of community.

Posted by Lauryn, 4th year BSN Student