This LAWYER from America has built the MOST AMAZING RESORT in GHANA!!!

Summary

In this insightful video, Edmund, a successful lawyer and entrepreneur, shares his journey of returning to Ghana to build Bridgeview Resorts, a luxury project aimed at boosting local employment and community development. He emphasizes the challenges and opportunities that come with investing in Ghana, stressing the importance of the diaspora’s role in the country’s growth. Through his vision, Edmund seeks to create sustainable business practices, empower locals, and inspire others to invest back home. His message to the diaspora is clear: now is the time to contribute to Africa’s future, creating lasting impact for generations to come.

Takeaways

• 😀 The importance of investing back home in Ghana, especially for the diaspora, is highlighted as a way to contribute to the country's development and reduce unemployment.
• 😀 Edmund believes that while challenges exist in Ghana, they come with significant opportunities for growth and reward.
• 😀 He emphasizes that private sector investment is crucial for the development of infrastructure, healthcare, and job creation, beyond what the government can do alone.
• 😀 The success of Bridgeview Resorts, a fully Ghanaian-owned business, demonstrates the potential for local entrepreneurship and job creation.
• 😀 Edmund's vision for the future includes further investments that will lead to reduced unemployment and better community infrastructure like roads and hospitals.
• 😀 He encourages fellow diasporans to move beyond the idea that they must go to Western countries for success, showing that Ghana offers ample opportunity.
• 😀 The resort itself serves as a model of success, built in a location that is not only beautiful but also set to promote local tourism and development.
• 😀 Edmund's passion for Ghana is evident, with a goal to be a role model for young Ghanaians by showing them the potential for success within their own country.
• 😀 The local community benefits directly from his investments, including over 100 local employees who are trained and upskilled through their roles at the resort.
• 😀 Edmund envisions a future where diasporans and locals work together to bring significant change to Ghana, including reducing unemployment and improving the country’s infrastructure.
• 😀 The beauty and growth potential of Ghana, from its natural landscapes to its rising economy, make it an ideal destination for investment and tourism.

Q & A

What motivated Edmund to invest in Ghana and create Bridgeview Resort?

Edmund was motivated by his strong connection to Ghana and his desire to contribute to the country’s development. As a successful Ghanaian-American lawyer, he recognized the challenges facing Ghana, such as unemployment and lack of infrastructure, and saw an opportunity to make a difference through investment in the tourism sector.

What role does the diaspora play in the development of Ghana, according to Edmund?

Edmund believes the diaspora plays a crucial role in Ghana's development. He encourages successful Ghanaian expatriates to return, invest, and help solve problems like unemployment, infrastructure gaps, and social challenges. He stresses that the government alone cannot bring about the necessary changes, and diaspora investments are key to driving growth.

What challenges did Edmund face when starting Bridgeview Resort?

Edmund faced several challenges, including navigating the complex land acquisition process, which took two years to complete. He also had to deal with the physical demands of construction and creating a sustainable business model that would provide jobs for locals. Despite these challenges, he saw them as opportunities for growth and learning.

How has Edmund’s resort impacted the local community in Ghana?

Bridgeview Resort has created jobs for over 100 people, contributing to the local economy. Edmund emphasizes the importance of using local talent in construction and management to ensure that the benefits of the resort are felt within the community. The resort serves as a model for how business investments can directly improve the livelihoods of locals.

What does Edmund see as the long-term vision for Ghana's development?

Edmund envisions a future where Ghanaians and the diaspora work together to build a stronger, more prosperous country. He imagines a Ghana with reduced unemployment, improved infrastructure, and thriving industries, supported by investments from both locals and diasporans.

What specific advice does Edmund offer to the diaspora interested in investing in Ghana?

Edmund advises the diaspora to invest now, rather than waiting for the perfect moment. He stresses that while there are challenges, the potential rewards—both financial and social—are significant. He encourages diaspora members to take an active role in the country’s development by investing in businesses, creating jobs, and improving local infrastructure.

What is the significance of the location and design of Bridgeview Resort?

The location and design of Bridgeview Resort are meant to showcase Ghana’s natural beauty and provide a premium hospitality experience. Edmund highlights the resort’s modern amenities combined with local cultural elements, creating a space that is both comfortable and representative of Ghanaian heritage. The resort aims to attract international visitors while providing a high-quality experience for locals.

What does Edmund mean when he says, 'The time is now' for diasporans to invest in Ghana?

By saying 'The time is now,' Edmund emphasizes the urgency of investing in Ghana and Africa as a whole. He believes that waiting for the perfect time can result in missed opportunities and that the present moment offers a significant chance for the diaspora to contribute to the continent’s growth.

How does Edmund’s personal experience as a lawyer and entrepreneur shape his views on investing in Ghana?

Edmund’s background as a lawyer and entrepreneur gave him a unique perspective on the importance of navigating legal systems and creating sustainable business models. His experience in the U.S. taught him the value of perseverance and strategic planning, which he applied when overcoming challenges like land acquisition and local business development in Ghana.

What are Edmund’s plans for the future of Bridgeview Resort?

Edmund plans to expand Bridgeview Resort, adding more facilities, recreational activities, and services that will attract both international and local visitors. He is also focused on further increasing employment opportunities and contributing to the local economy. The future vision includes using the resort as a model for more investment in the hospitality and tourism sector in Ghana.