Local Man's Journey to Success and Heartbreak

Bernard Forson, a Ghanaian man, recounts his life story, which was significantly influenced by his family. He was fortunate to have three elder sisters who contributed to his tertiary education. His parents, who valued education, ensured that their four children received a good upbringing and education. His father taught Economics in senior high schools, mostly in the Central Region, while his mother worked as a matron or catering officer in senior high schools and polytechnics.

Forson's sisters studied catering at the polytechnic and later established the Sankofa Restaurant and Catering, providing local dishes and delivery services. Strategically located on the Circle-Achimota road, their restaurant attracted many customers. Forson's sisters took over his education, and he sailed smoothly through university, earning a first-class degree in development economics. He then did his National Service with the Electricity Company of Ghana and was offered a job in the Projects Department.

Forson's career progressed rapidly as he acquired a postgraduate qualification, an 18-month Master's Degree in Project Management at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration. He was re-engaged at the ECG and later encouraged by his Head of Department, Mr. Osekre, to apply for the job of Northern Sector Project Manager at a development agency, which turned out to be the European Union. In this role, Forson coordinated development jobs in the northern regions, established good rapport with contractors, and sent monthly reports.

Forson's work at the European Union led to the establishment of an online portal that enabled contractors to monitor projects easily. This innovation was greatly appreciated, and the Commissioner wrote to thank him, noting that regular visits by expatriate staff to the north had become unnecessary. Forson's work also gained international recognition, and he was sent to several African countries to help establish similar online facilities, eventually being promoted to Consultant.

In addition to his career success, Forson made two major decisions on the advice of his elder sisters and Mr. Osekre: to find a stable lady partner to marry and start a family, and to invest in housing projects. With Mr. Osekre's guidance, Forson invested in housing projects, buying and renovating properties, which became a very successful business. He also reconnected with Abena Gyasi, a university acquaintance, and they began a relationship.

However, Forson's relationship with Abena Gyasi began to unravel when she started asking questions about his job, despite him having already shared details with her. Forson had kept his investment business private, and Abena's persistent questioning led to tension in their relationship. The situation worsened when Forson discovered that Abena was socializing with others, including a friend named Jennifer, leading to a confrontation about her activities.

The relationship ultimately ended due to Abena's seeming lack of excitement about Forson and her increasing socialization with others. Forson had expressed his preference for exclusivity in their relationship, but Abena brushed off his concerns, leading to the beginning of the end of their relationship. Despite his successful career and business ventures, Forson's personal life had hit a roadblock.

Key points

• Bernard Forson's life story is one of career success and personal challenges.
• His innovations in project management earned him international recognition.
• However, his relationship with Abena Gyasi ultimately ended due to trust issues and differing expectations.