The Founder and Chairman of the Atidefe Foundation, Thomas Atidefe, has encouraged young people to remain focused on their ambitions and refuse to be discouraged by difficult circumstances.

Speaking at a youth empowerment forum and coconut seedling distribution programme organised by the foundation, Mr Atidefe recounted his personal journey from hardship to success, saying resilience and determination had transformed his life.

He revealed that he once lived under difficult conditions at Accra New Town and worked as a house help for several years before overcoming adversity.

"If I say you can do it, it means you can truly do it. Believe in yourself and keep working towards your goals," he told the youth.

Mr Atidefe said the foundation was established to promote community development through interventions in agriculture, education, healthcare, security, vocational training and youth empowerment.

According to him, no society could achieve meaningful and sustainable development without investing in agriculture, education, healthcare, skills development and the younger generation.

He urged beneficiaries of the over 5,000 coconut seedlings to nurture and protect the trees, noting that they could become sustainable sources of income and valuable assets for future generations.

"Great things often begin as something very small. Just as a tiny coconut seedling grows into a strong tree that bears fruits for many years, every opportunity and act of kindness has the potential to create lasting impact," he said.

Mr Atidefe also advised young people to stay away from drug abuse, crime and other social vices that could undermine their future prospects.

He commended the Atidefe Foundation for supporting brilliant but needy students to pursue their education, describing the initiative as a demonstration of credible leadership and community development.

He further called for stronger collaboration among government, traditional authorities, civil society organisations, the private sector and philanthropic institutions to expand opportunities for young people and promote sustainable development.

Mr Atidefe assured beneficiaries that the Atidefe Foundation would continue to implement programmes aimed at improving livelihoods, empowering communities and promoting sustainable development.

The foundation donated digital photocopy machine, hand sewing machine, football, office chairs among others to institutions and individuals in the district.