On Saturday, July 13th, the NDC UK-IRELAND Chapter celebrated a significant milestone with the inauguration of its 22nd branch in Coventry. This event was led by Chairman Connrad Dumbah and was graced by several notable figures, including the National Deputy General Secretary Mr. Mustapha Gbande, responsible for operations, the Rector of NDC Party School Dr. William Ahadzi, former chapter chairman Mr. Emmanuel Kofi Kwakye, former chapter secretary Mr. Samuel Quaye, and former chapter organiser Mr. Alfred Boyen. This new branch marks the 8th inauguration since the current executives took office, showcasing their dedication to expanding the chapter’s reach and influence.
The inauguration ceremony was a vibrant and inspiring occasion, highlighting the chapter’s commitment to empowering its members with skills that enhance their personal and professional lives. In his address, Chairman Connrad Dumbah emphasized the importance of developing empowering skills, which he defined as abilities or qualities that help individuals feel confident, capable, and in control of their lives.
Key examples of these empowering skills include:
1. Communication Skills: Chairman Dumbah highlighted the significance of effective communication, stressing that the ability to express oneself and listen to others is crucial in various situations. This skill fosters better understanding and collaboration among members, contributing to a more cohesive and supportive community.
2. Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to analyse situations, identify solutions, and make informed decisions was another focal point of the speech. Developing strong problem-solving skills empowers members to tackle challenges head-on, fostering a sense of control and confidence in their abilities.
3. Emotional Intelligence: Understanding and managing one’s emotions, as well as empathising with others, was identified as a key skill for navigating relationships and conflicts effectively. Emotional intelligence enables members to build stronger, more supportive networks within the chapter and beyond.
4. Resilience: The capacity to bounce back from setbacks and persevere through difficult times was highlighted as an essential skill. Resilience empowers individuals to keep moving forward, even in the face of adversity, and plays a crucial role in personal and professional growth.
5. Self-Awareness: Knowing one’s strengths, weaknesses, values, and goals was underscored as a vital component of empowerment. Self-awareness allows members to make choices that align with their true selves, leading to more fulfilling and purposeful lives.
6. Assertiveness: The ability to assert one’s needs, boundaries, and opinions in a respectful manner was identified as a critical skill for self-advocacy. Assertiveness empowers members to stand up for themselves and their beliefs, fostering a culture of respect and mutual understanding within the chapter.
The inauguration of the Coventry branch not only marks a significant expansion for the NDC UK-IRELAND Chapter but also underscores the chapter’s commitment to empowering its members with essential skills. Through focused development of communication, problem-solving, emotional intelligence, resilience, self-awareness, and assertiveness, the chapter aims to build a confident, capable, and cohesive community.
As the NDC UK-IRELAND Chapter continues to grow, the emphasis on empowering skills will remain a cornerstone of its mission. By fostering these qualities, the chapter ensures that its members are well-equipped to navigate challenges, advocate for themselves, and achieve their goals, both within the party and in their personal lives.
The ceremony concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and unity, as members of the newly inaugurated Coventry branch, along with their counterparts across the UK and Ireland, committed to working together to strengthen the chapter and empower one another.
