OUR TEAM
Ferdinand Quayson - Founding Director

Ferdinand was born in Accra, Ghana, where he completed his basic and high school education. In 2016, he moved to the United States to pursue his undergraduate education at Wesleyan University on a full scholarship. During his first year at Wesleyan, he founded YAF Ghana and has been instrumental in its expansion ever since. He is now pursuing his master’s degree in Public Affairs at the Princeton School o Public and International Affairs.

Ferdinand Quayson - Founding Director

Ferdinand was born in Accra, Ghana, where he completed his basic and high school education. In 2016, he moved to the United States to pursue his undergraduate education at Wesleyan University on a full scholarship. During his first year at Wesleyan, he founded YAF Ghana and has been instrumental in its expansion ever since. He is now pursuing his master’s degree in Public Affairs at the Princeton School o Public and International Affairs.

Richard Kugblenu - Executive Director

Richard has been with YAF Ghana since 2021.His vast experience has established him as a vital resource for our scholars facing the daunting financial aid and college application processes.Richard holds a BSc Information Technology from the University of Education, Winneba, and a certificate in Project Management from The New School, USA. Prior to joining YAF Ghana, he spent two years at Lead for Ghana teaching in a rural setting and executed a  capstone project that profoundly affected his students and their wider community.

Sandra Adom Botchway - Assistant Program Manager

A graduate of the University of Ghana, Sandra brings years of experience in project execution and human relations to her role, where she plays a crucial part in the success of YAF Ghana’s initiatives. Her responsibilities include coordinating and overseeing program activities, managing logistics for events and workshops, and providing direct support to scholars. Sandra works closely with students, ensuring they receive the necessary resources and guidance throughout their journey in the program. Additionally, she collaborates with partners, volunteers, and other stakeholders to enhance the impact and reach of YAF Ghana’s mission. Sandra’s commitment to empowering students and her strong organizational skills make her an invaluable asset to the team.

Ezra Burstein - Creative Writing Instructor

Ezra has been teaching YAF Ghana’s creative writing class for the past five years. Ezra studied English literature and writing at Wesleyan University, and since graduating Ezra has taught elementary education at Germantown Friends School in Philadelphia. Ezra’s approach to teaching writing is systemic, technical, and based in identifying and building concrete skills. Ezra believes that anyone, if equipped with a strong toolbox of skills and techniques, can write effectively by discerning and articulating personal goals for their writing. Ezra has also worked with students one-on-one for the past seven years  as a private writing tutor.