The street narrative
The idea of “starting on the streets” often serves as a compelling hook for these business moguls. It connects them with the everyday struggles of the average Ghanaian, creating an image of relatability and resilience. However, my late grandmother’s wise words remind me to approach such stories with caution. “Ghanaians talk and are observant,” she would say. “They know your true story better than you do, so be mindful of what you say and do.” This insight has shaped my understanding of the narratives we accept and perpetuate.
Many of these street-start stories may contain some truth, but they are often exaggerated or selectively told to craft a rags-to-riches image. The danger lies not just in the potential inaccuracy of these stories but in their impact on the perceptions of success among Ghanaian youth.
The factors that contribute to wealth or success in business can be attributed to several key elements. One of these is “Divine Intervention,” where an individual is blessed by the grace of God. Another crucial factor is networking and connections—being exposed to the right people and engaging with a network of well-connected business individuals. These elements play a significant role in achieving success and cannot be overlooked.
The Reality of Street
Life
Through my two decades of interactions with some street hawkers and hustlers, I’ve seen firsthand the stark contrast between these romanticised tales and the grim realities of street life. Many individuals who began their journeys on the streets 20 years ago are still there today, selling the same goods and battling the same hardships. They embody discipline, diligence, and hard work, yet their circumstances have not changed.
This disparity raises critical questions: If success were merely a matter of hard work and resilience, why do so many street hustlers remain trapped in poverty? The reality is that success often hinges on more than just perseverance. Access to resources, education, mentorship, helper, and sometimes sheer luck play pivotal roles. For many street hustlers, these opportunities are simply beyond reach.
The glorification of street beginnings sends a dangerous message to young Ghanaians. It suggests that formal education, mentorship, and family support are not essential for success. Consequently, some youths are abandoning their education or stable environments, drawn to the illusion of a street hustle as a shortcut to greatness.
However, the harsh truth is that the streets offer limited opportunities for upward mobility. They are often rife with exploitation and crime, trapping many in a cycle of poverty and diminishing their dreams. For most, the streets are not a launching pad for success but a barrier to it.
As a society, we must scrutinise the narratives that successful individuals promote. While resilience and hard work should be celebrated, it’s equally important to present a balanced view of success. The stories we share must reflect the role of education, mentorship, family support, and even privilege in achieving success.
Too often, we venerate the wealthy without questioning the sources of their riches, praising them solely for their success. In contrast, those who struggle are often overlooked or dismissed. This skewed value system further perpetuates harmful myths about the path to success.
Successful businesspeople have a responsibility to share the complete scope of their journeys. By acknowledging the multifaceted nature of success, including the support systems and opportunities that played a role, they can inspire young people in a more authentic and empowering way.
Not every journey starts on the streets, and not every street hustler becomes a success story. As a society, we owe it to the next generation to offer a more accurate, holistic view of what it takes to achieve greatness. Only then can we truly empower them to navigate their paths with realistic expectations and informed choices.
The writer is a media
consultant
BY FIIFI NETTEY
