Meet Benson Sena Dumoga: A Rising Star and Visionary in Business

By: Talata Awuah

At Mako Children’s Opportunity Centre, our vision is straightforward yet impactful: promoting a happy mind, nurturing joyful lives, and supporting at-risk youth in rural Ghana through long-term education and skill development. We believe in empowering leaders who will influence their communities, country, and the wider world.

Today, as an organisation, we are delighted to share the inspiring story of Benson Sena Dumoga, a young man whose resilience, faith, and vision have propelled him from his humble beginnings to the exciting brink of graduation and entrepreneurship.

Benson’s Journey of Resilience

Benson, 26, has been one of the most dedicated beneficiaries of the Mako Continuous Education Program. He recently completed his final exams at the University of Professional Studies, Accra, where he studied for a degree in Business Administration with a specialisation in Finance. While waiting for his graduation scheduled to take place in October, Benson is already shaping his future by creating opportunities for himself and his community.

Reflecting on his journey, Benson shared:

“My life has been marked by resilience and faith. Growing up was not easy, especially as the firstborn of my parents' three children. Losing my father at a young age left my mother to shoulder the responsibilities of both parents. She began trading but eventually settled into farming. During those challenging times, I made a promise to myself not to let circumstances define who I might become. Therefore, I took on the responsibility of setting an example for my siblings by demonstrating how persistence, hard work, and, of course, the right intervention can change everything in a person's life.  And the right intervention has been the Mako Children’s Opportunity Centre. I hold a profound gratitude for their generous sponsorship, mentorship, and guidance throughout the pursuit of my educational goals and becoming the person I am today. With their commitment to empowering youth to pursue both academic and career opportunities and skills, I have, and am on my way to, achieving my dream.”

From Business Challenge to a Full-Fledged Farm

In 2024, Benson participated in the prestigious MTN Business Challenge, where he presented his innovative idea for a rice farming enterprise. His vision, aimed at creating jobs and enhancing food security in Ghana, earned him a prize fund and valuable mentorship. Instead of resting on his victory, Benson immediately invested the funds. This year, he established a 15-acre rice farm while managing his demanding final year at university.

“The prize money wasn’t just a reward; it was the seed capital for my rice farm project. I knew I had to move quickly, because agriculture, to me, is a sustainable business model that helps people lead better lives while building stronger communities,” says Benson

The First Harvest

Earlier this month, Benson took pride in harvesting his first crop yield, but it wasn't without its challenges. The drought this year had an impact on part of his yield, yet his spirit remains unshaken. To Benson, losing some yield to the drought was simply part of the journey of being a farmer, and every farmer learns resilience from the soil. What's most remarkable about this harvest is that it taught him lessons no classroom could ever match, making him even more determined to grow and do better next season.

Benson's achievement is even more impressive considering he managed to balance this venture while preparing for his final exams, which only a few can claim to have launched a 15-acre farm and completed their degree in the same year.

Benson attributes much of his strength to his faith as a Christian and his mother, whom he says has always been his anchor.

“My mother is my greatest inspiration,” Benson shares. “She showed me that no matter how hard things get, faith and persistence will carry you through it all”.  And as for me, I have come to learn that true success must be grounded in integrity, hard work, and above all, God’s guidance. 

He also stresses the importance of teamwork, humility, and listening to others. For example, he said, “When I joined the challenge, I knew I couldn’t do it alone. I brought together a team of four friends who believed in my idea and tried to explain to them why I chose agriculture, specifically rice farming. I told them about the importance of agriculture and how it can create sustainable jobs, improve food security, and drive economic growth in Ghana.” Throughout the challenge and afterwards, I continue to rely on and respect the voices of my team and mentors, valuing each member’s input in our collective decision-making process. For me, “Even as a leader, I remain a student, I keep learning, refining, and building with others because that's how true progress is made.”

Benson’s Message to Fellow Students

For everyone on a similar journey, Benson happily shares some encouraging words: “Know your industry and prepare well. Remember, the road isn’t always smooth; challenges will arise, but let your determination be your guiding light. Don’t hesitate to carve out your own path, and keep in mind that what works for others might not be the best fit for you. Most importantly, cherish your education as it’s the solid foundation supporting every business move, your academic pursuits, and your personal growth.”

Benson’s story is still unfolding, but it already speaks volumes: a boy once unsure of his future is now a university graduate in waiting, a farmer, and a visionary businessman who is deeply passionate about building and growing businesses while also aspiring to pursue a professional career in finance to become a financial analyst. His life reflects the very mission of Mako, “that with opportunity, support and determination, young people cannot only change their own lives but can also transform their communities.”

As Benson awaits his graduation and plans for his next farming season, we at Mako celebrate him as a role model for perseverance, innovation and faith. His journey inspires us to keep believing that every child’s potential, when nurtured, can shine light into the world.

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