In a world striving to bridge societal gaps related to gender, ethnicity, economic status, and more, there remains much to be desired when it comes to dispelling misconceptions about disability and Persons with Disability (PWDs).

The Here for Perfection (H4P) Organization, under the visionary leadership of Bishop Dr. Charles Cofie Hackman, has spent the past 14 years addressing this challenge through various initiatives aimed at celebrating the abilities of PWDs and fostering a more inclusive society.

One of the organization's flagship events, the Christina Hackman Impact Leadership (C.H.I.L.) Awards and Dinner Night, is dedicated to honouring PWDs who have made remarkable contributions to society.

As the first of its kind in Ghana, the event serves as a testament to the exceptional achievements and resilience of the disability community.

Held on March 15th at the Labadi Beach Hotel, the second edition of the prestigious C.H.I.L. Awards brought together high-profile dignitaries, stakeholders, and advocates from the disability community.

Their presence underscored the importance of inclusivity and recognition for all.

Notable attendees included Mrs. Linda Ablorh of Manna Mission, WO2 Ebenezer Obese Gyamfi, Mrs. Mawunyo Yakor-Dagbah, Mr. Alexander Kojo Tetteh, and Mr. Elvis Kosi Alipui—past CHIL Awards winners in entrepreneurship and sports.

The C.H.I.L. Awards were established in honor of Mrs. Christina Anansiwa Hackman, the late mother of Bishop Dr. Hackman, in recognition of her impactful service to humanity and unwavering dedication to improving the lives of PWDs.

In his opening remarks, Bishop Dr. Charles Cofie Hackman expressed his passion for transforming perceptions about disability.

He emphasized the importance of not only changing societal attitudes but also empowering PWDs to realize their potential and value.

The awards spotlighted outstanding achievements in three categories: Sports, Education, and Entrepreneurship.

Sports Award: Presented to Raphael Botsyo Nkegbe, a three-time Paralympian recognized for his exceptional contributions to parasports.

Entrepreneurship Award: Bestowed upon Mr. Ntim Twumasi Kwaku (NTK), a Ghanaian entrepreneur and philanthropist celebrated for his significant impact on business and social development.

Education Award: Awarded to Prof. Wisdom Mprah, an Associate Professor at the School of Public Health, KNUST, honoured for his dedication to advancing education and welfare for PWDs.

The awardees received the CHIL Plaque, CHIL Certificate, CHIL Medal of Honour, a cash prize.

The Special Guest of Honour, Sister Elizabeth Newman of the School Sisters of Notre Dame (SSND), delivered an inspiring address, acknowledging the progress made in disability advocacy and commending H4P's immense contributions. She received the C.H.I.L. Lifetime Honorary Award for her dedication to service, education, and compassion since arriving in Ghana in 1974.

The evening featured captivating performances by talented PWDs, including Min Elorm, Daniel Opoku Adjei, Seperewa Agofoma (Abena Serwaa Osei Korankye), and Douglas Makafui.

Their performances showcased the diversity and creativity within the disability community.

Guests also heard moving testimonies from local and international personalities, including Madam Christine Chama, Human Rights Commissioner of Zambia, Sefakor G.M.A Komabu-Pomoyie, PhD, Director of Inclusive Excellence at the University of Vermont, USA, and Abdulhakim Ware Shehe, a legislator from Kenya.

These testimonials celebrated H4P's commitment to uplifting the lives of PWDs and creating opportunities for them to thrive.

The CHIL Awards and Dinner Night was a celebration of the resilience and achievements of PWDs, reinforcing the importance of acknowledging and supporting their contributions.

As the H4P Organization continues its mission, the stories shared at the event serve as a powerful reminder to break down barriers and empower PWDs to achieve greatness.