Boxing legend Azumah Nelson, fondly known as “The Professor,” launched his highly anticipated “Zoom Zoom Clinics” on Thursday, July 4 in Accra, Ghana. The boxing and mentorship programme, named after one of Nelson’s nicknames, goes beyond just boxing, aiming to empower and uplift young people across the country.
The launch served as a heartwarming tribute to Nelson’s late trainer, Attuquaye Clottey. Nelson, a Hall of Famer, emphasized the profound impact Clottey had on his career, crediting him for shaping him into a world champion both in and outside the ring.
The Zoom Zoom Clinics, partnering with the Ghana Boxing Federation and sponsored by GCB Bank, seek to continue Clottey’s legacy. Nelson envisions himself becoming a mentor, passing on the values of discipline and determination that fueled his own success.
“We all need mentors,” Nelson declared at the launch. He stressed the importance of guiding youngsters to become future leaders, regardless of their chosen path. The clinics, he explained, are designed to equip young people with valuable life lessons that will propel them towards a bright future.
The program targets children and young adults aged 12-18. Project Lead Yaw Sakyi revealed that Nelson will personally travel to four regional capitals: Tamale, Kumasi, Takoradi, and Accra, to interact with students at basic schools and senior High Schools. These sessions, starting July 12th in Tamale, will focus on core values like discipline, perseverance, and the importance of hard work, applicable both in the ring and in everyday life.
The initiative has garnered strong support from the government. The Minister of Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, praised the clinics for their focus on nurturing talent, fostering discipline, and promoting overall well-being through sports. He highlighted Nelson’s dedication to giving back and empowering young athletes, calling it a model for all.
“This initiative will undoubtedly uncover new talents and potentially future champions,” Mr. Ussif declared, expressing the ministry’s full support. He emphasized the program’s alignment with their mission to develop the sporting potential of Ghanaian youth.
Mr. Socrates Afram, Deputy Managing Director of GCB Bank, echoed the sentiment. He lauded Nelson’s commitment to youth development, calling the Zoom Zoom Clinics a reflection of his deep connection to the community. “GCB Bank is proud to be associated with this initiative,” he stated, aligning it perfectly with the bank’s values of supporting and investing in the future of Ghana’s youth.
The Zoom Zoom Clinics promise to be more than just boxing lessons. Azumah Nelson, inspired by his own mentor, is determined to leave a lasting impact by shaping and empowering the next generation of Ghanaian leaders.
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Source: www.ghanaweb.com
