No excuses – Daniel McKorley inspires youth to start small, think big

Dr Daniel McKorley, Founder and Chairman of the McDan Group of Companies, has delivered an inspiring address urging Ghana’s youth to create their own “turning points” and reject excuses.

Speaking to a packed auditorium of young leaders, students, and entrepreneurs at the 2025 National Youth Conference in Accra, he shared his journey from working as a messenger to building one of Ghana’s most successful business groups.

He explained that success rarely begins with vast capital but with small, decisive actions.

“A turning point is not just a lucky break, it’s a decision — that moment you decide enough is enough and refuse to let your circumstances define you,” he said.

Dr. McKorley emphasised that competence must come before opportunity, advising the youth to master their current roles, develop discipline beyond motivation, and guard their reputation as their most valuable currency.

The business leader also reminded his audience that Africa’s youthful population is a strength if harnessed through innovation and skill development.

Highlighting sectors like logistics, technology, agribusiness, and green energy, he challenged them to position themselves for emerging opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Interacting with the audience, Dr. McKorley asked how many could grow GH¢5,000 from a smaller amount in a month — stressing that the real test was mindset, not money.

“The most successful people in the world don’t wait for big capital; they start with small action,” he noted.

He closed with a challenge: “Decide your turning point now. Think big, start small, and act immediately. And when you succeed, reach back and lift others with you.”

The event, organised by the International Youth Fellowship in partnership with the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment, the National Youth Authority, and the University of Professional Studies, aimed to equip Ghana’s youth with the mindset and tools to lead change in their communities.

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