The Untold Story of Linda Ackah Mensah, University of Ghana SRC Presidential Aspirant

My life goals were simple: to be content and to be surrounded by the people I loved. The life my father planned for me as a secretary has had its ups and downs, and I cannot really blame him for wanting something better for his child.

Originally from the middle portion of the country, Mankessim is where I completed all four of my academic degrees.

As a student, every time I heard about the accomplishments of former students of Mfantsiman Girls High School during prize-giving ceremonies, I was captivated and inspired.

I aspired to be a leader, a scriptwriter, an actor, and a public speaker, and these pursuits piqued my attention.

Serving as library prefect, president of Camfed and organisational secretary for my religion were just some of the positions I held as a result of my growing interest in leadership.

Now, I’m an appointed member of the UG Parliament House’s privileges committee, the Deputy Women’s Commissioner for UG’s largest department, Political Science Student Association (POSSA),a Scholar of the MasterCard Foundation and The John Agyekum Kufuor Foundation.

President of Mbasiafo, an initiative of young rural community girls who aim at bridging the divide between rural and urban community lives for young females, I have pulled strides.

I am involved in the She Leads Project, which is an initiative aimed at encouraging young women to make moral decisions and work to change social standards for the better.

I decided to run for the presidency of the University of Ghana Student’s Representative Council because I saw how much I could accomplish if I were given the opportunity.

The fact that I’m a woman in a male-dominated society has made it evident that I must work hard to catch up or compete at the same level as men.

My many leadership jobs have shown me to be similarly competent over the years, with excellent results.

I can’t deny how difficult it was for me since I was a girl. Overall, though, it’s strengthened my resolve and convinced me that I’m the ideal person to manage this portfolio.

Gender has no bearing on one’s ability to lead; neither is it implausible nor impossible.

Dear brothers and sisters, the road ahead is often difficult, but I have big goals and dreams in mind. You play a crucial role in my fantasy because you gave me the chance to fulfil my potential thanks to you.

I have a proven track record of success, as well as a strong belief in challenging the current quo and speaking out for students.