Blessen Adwoa Essilfie-Konglo, a 23-year-old from Abuesi, in the Shama District of the Western Region of Ghana, stands on the threshold of becoming a Doctor of Optometry. Her journey, driven by a dream nurtured since childhood, has been made possible by the WAPCo Scholarship scheme.

Blessen’s parents, hardworking beverage traders, always emphasized the power of education to change one’s destiny. This belief guided Blessen through her studies at Shama Model D/A JHS and Archbishop Porter Girls’ Secondary School, despite the financial constraints that often threatened her progress.

Her determination saw her through to the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, also in Ghana, where financial strain once again posed a challenge. “There were times I struggled to pay school fees, buy textbooks, or even afford basic meals,” Blessen recalls. Yet, she remained focused, taking internships at hospitals during vacations and helping her parents with their business.

The turning point came with the WAPCo Scholarship, which not only funded her education but also lifted a heavy burden, allowing her to focus on her studies. “The WAPCo Scholarship did more than pay my tuition; it ignited a mission,” Blessen says. Her experience volunteering during WAPCo’s recent Annual Health Outreach Programme in her community was transformative. “For the first time, I applied classroom knowledge to real-life situations, examining patients, helping to diagnose eye conditions, and educating communities about eye health,” she explains.

This experience solidified her passion for optometry. Blessen now sees her future not just as a practicing optometrist, but as a changemaker for underserved communities. “After I graduate, I plan to return to my hometown, to provide accessible eye care, lead outreach programmes, mentor aspiring optometrists, and collaborate with NGOs to build sustainable health solutions,” she shares.

Blessen is one of the several hundreds of beneficiaries of the WAPCo scholarship committed to positively shaping the future of their communities.

“The WAPCo Scholarship is more than just financial aid; it is an investment in the future of our communities. By supporting young talents like Blessen, we are not only helping them achieve their dreams but also ensuring that they can give back and uplift others. This is the essence of our commitment to social responsibility and community development.”
– Isaac Adjei Doku, General Manager Corporate-Affairs at WAPCo

Blessen’s story is a testament to the transformative power of education and the impact of the WAPCo Scholarship. “Because you believed in me, I now believe more than ever in helping others see a brighter, clearer future,” she concludes.