Desmond John Beddy

The prospect of departing this world with a lingering sense of unfulfillment weighs heavily on my heart. My earliest school memories take me back to a dilapidated classroom situated in a town deprived of fundamental amenities like electricity, clean drinking water, and a clinic.

Today, I find myself questioning, "What have I given back to this community?" The response to this question is profoundly disheartening—nothing.

From a young age, I grasped the principle that those who are fortunate must also give generously in return. It's important to note that this giving is not limited to monetary contributions; it also involves sharing un-used clothing with those in desperate need. Regrettably, I must confess that I have not done enough in this regard.

My dear friend, I trust that you can empathize with my frustration. I understand that it's implausible to fulfill all of my dreams, yet I remain convinced that there's much more I can achieve. The same potential exists for you.

I've frequently pondered the notion of what transpires if my noble intentions and visions go unrealized. In fact, I previously emphasized this point in Nürnberg, Germany when I received recognition for my community contributions: "Success is only achieved when you have prosperous successors who carry forward your work."

Is it not plausible that, were I to pass away today, the distinguished African Youth Education Awards (AYEA) might slip into obscurity? Success transcends the mere initiation of endeavors; it hinges on guaranteeing their long-term sustainability.

Far too often, we are inclined to launch fresh initiatives while abandoning existing projects—both in our home countries and abroad. We frequently prioritize the creation of new endeavors catering to the elite, neglecting those aimed at uplifting the underprivileged.

I am acutely aware that my grave might bear witness to my sorrow as I witness the marginalized status of the vulnerable. For several years, I have advocated for the principles of "Come Together, Work Together, and Stay Together" (CWS) to no avail.

Coming together for a shared purpose constitutes only the inaugural step; it's equally vital that we continue working together and, most importantly, stay united. Within this unity, teams grow stronger, deficiencies are addressed, and we achieve medium and long-term objectives.

A close friend once commended my achievement in compiling "The History of Ghanaians in Germany." However, I am unable to rest content until millions have access to the book, millions have perused its contents, and it has significantly impacted lives.

My aspiration is to see the book meticulously edited and readily available in all German schools, universities, libraries, cultural centers, and social hubs. Unfortunately, this vision remains unfulfilled.

Despite my profound love for writing and an unwavering passion to effect change, I have failed to write consistently. I acknowledge that I haven't done enough, despite possessing the means to contribute more. Were I to depart today, my soul would bear the burden of an unfulfilled purpose until the end of time.

Desmond John Beddy

https://www.beddy.de

Following several complaints about the time schedule of your favorite advertising and entertaining platform "WEEKEND VYBEZ", the time has been changed with effect from today, Saturday, the 25^th of March 2017. The program is hosted by one of Germany's prolific radio voices, Effiya and co-host Hennoch on Radio TopAfric Germany. The show has captivated a massive audience who crave for a more convenient time so they could really enjoy the program.http://topafric.radio.de

The program which previously aired every Sunday 20:00 - 22:00Hrs (CET), will from now air every Saturday.

WINTER TIME 

18:00 - 20:00Hrs (CET)
17:00 - 19:00Hrs (UK & GHANA) 
13:00 - 15:00Hrs (USA)

18:00 - 20:00Hrs (S A)

SUMMER TIME
18:00 - 20:00Hrs (CET)
16:00 - 18:00Hrs (UK & GHANA)

13:00 - 15:00Hrs(USA)
18:00 - 20:00Hrs (S A) 

Don't miss today's program as it promised to bring you intriguing interviews, thought provoking topics, fun, gist, news update on Germany, beyond and many more, that will brighten up your Saturdays every weekend. Do visit our website www.topafric.com for more news update on German. Also like our Facebook page, twitter, Instagram and snapchat and keep yourself informed, wherever you are.

Weekend Vybez! http://topafric.radio.de
Bringing you vybez as we vybe!

Don't Miss It!

EFFIYA EPHYA 

African Youth Education Awards -2022

Although the Covid-19 pandemic was a huge distraction in terms of planning and implementation, TopAfric e.V. was able to run the “Youth Leadership Programme” successfully. The mentoring programme aimed to deepen educational awareness and empower young people of African descent in Germany. It aimed at creating a spontaneous willingness on the part of the youth to become involved in civic engagements, strengthen social cohesion, and charge them with being more socially responsible.

The programme brought together mentees and working mentors to exchange views on various topics based on mutual respect and understanding. The project pursued active community building with the aim of networking and improving the academic and professional qualifications of the mentees. The young people benefitted greatly from the experiences and skills of the mentors, while the mentors had the privilege of sharing their successes and setbacks productively and passing on their experiences to the younger generation. The programme was implemented within two years with some challenges along the way, but these were managed well by the mentors and mentees.

The mentees were actively involved in the activities of TopAfric e.V. by accompanying people to offices, assisting them in filling out forms and providing translations in schools for parents who are not fluent in the German language. Though not part of the initial plans, the African students from Ukraine were supported by helping them to find accommodation and searching for German-language schools, as well as organizing Zoom seminars for them on how to navigate their stay in Germany. 

The African Youth Education Awards (AYEA) that crowned the project were amazing and witnessed the biggest attendance since 2012. Initially, the event was slated for the 15^th October 2022, but two months before that date, the Chamber of Commerce had to change our schedule to the 22^nd October 2022. Panic broke out as we had to create additional posters, flyers and promotional videos. The new young team was able to adjust quickly to implement the programme in an amazing way. Over 500 people attended, far exceeding the target of 300 people, with the participation of state institutions, consulates, embassies, and agencies from Africa, leaders from the African communities and members of the media. The ripple effect went far beyond the attendees.

The mentoring programme builds on the activities of TopAfric e.V. and its network of partners in the field of educational equity and empowerment. The mentees did not only participate in the programmes we run, but took up leadership roles and helped operate them successfully. 

We wish to express our sincere gratitude to Aktion Mensch which sponsored the leadership programme. With Covid-19 gone, we would be in a better position to implement such a noble project more successfully.

Desmond John Beddy

https://beddy.de

The demand for films from NOLLYWOOD is not only great in Africa, but also in America and Europe. Many people are enjoying the films. The films make it possible to unite young and old, as they focus on life in Nigeria from yesterday and today. Many of the Africans and Afro-Germans living in Germany would like to have the opportunity to experience NOLLYWOOD films in German cinemas. But the only way they can see the latest Nolly wood movies is through DVDs.

Grace Evaly of Nollywood Germany is creating a way for brand new NOLLYWOOD movies to be shown at least once a month in selected cinemas in Germany. Through her good contacts with the industry, she can receive the latest and most popular Nollywood films. The films are mostly in English, but plans are in place to provide German subtitle to make it accessible to a wider audience. Depending on the success, filming is also planned where NOLLYWOOD stars can be invited to come and shoot in Germany.

Grace Evaly was born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria. Already during her school years she played several roles in TV commercials, music videos and magazines For ten years (1996 - 2006) she worked as an actress in Nigeria and worked in different projects of the film industry of Nigeria which is known worldwide as NOLLYWOOD. In 2006 she came to Germany for the first time to take part in a film making. Then in 2007 she moved to Hamburg. Her goal is to unite cultures and generations through cinema and film and to also provide an insight into the life of Nigeria from yesterday and today.

On Saturday, May 20th, 2017, the first Nollywood movie in Hamburg entitled "Zero Deal" will be featured at the Metropolis Kino (Kleine Theaterstraße 10, 22354 Hamburg).

The film is about the story of an African who comes to Europe with a visa that is bought at a high price. The film was shot in Germany, Sweden and Nigeria and is filled with well-known NOLLYWOOD actors. One of the actors, Chiwetalu Agu, will also be present at the premiere in Hamburg.

I had the privilege to attend the 2016 African Youth Education Awards (AYEA) in Hamburg which for me belongs to one of the well-organized events by the African Diaspora in Hamburg.

In terms of event management, the African Diaspora has constantly been linked to a clichee of disregard for time, ill-prepared programs, less attention to detail and unprofessionalism.

Traditionally, one can also argue that most African communities in Germany have placed much focus on socio-cultural programs (Outdoorings, Funeral Celebrations, Cultural Shows, etc.) to highlight their existence in the public domain.

I humbly want to proclaim that the AYEA program is now one of the leading platforms to showcase a different image of the African Diaspora in Germany.

My confidence in making such a proclamation thrives around my personal observations whilst attending the AYEA awards. Essentially, I'd restrict my opinions to the following:

Professionalism:
The organizers of the AYEA have clearly understood that the regard for punctuality directly translates into respect for participants and also lays the foundation for effectiveness.

The program started on time - which was the first surprise I took notice of- and it was executed within the allocated time. This brings to mind that I have to give a big credit to the 3 young African female moderators who combined glamour, professional expertise and resolute assertiveness to drive this event to the expected targets.

Attendance & Awards:
The AYEA program was patronized by signficant personalities from the Hamburg Chamber of Commerce, representatives from the Hamburg Local Government, Embassy of Uganda, Notable Parliamentarians, Student Associations and many more distinguished individuals. For me, this platform delivered the ever so important avenue for vital engagements between the political divide in Germany and the African Diaspora. The presentations stressed the need for the African Diaspora to consolidate its position within the society at large by taking advantage of all integration avenues.

At the same time, the awards to our young African brothers and sisters can be seen as powerful motivation factors, however, I am of the view that they clearly depicted an increasing trend of the African youth walking a different path in comparison to the older generation. Specifically, this is an indication that they have embraced the idea that achieving excellence in education is a core prerequisite for career development and social integration in Germany.

The event sequence combining formal presentations, entertainment acts and motivational speeches were driven in a manner which captured my attention from beginning to end. Boredom factor was zero and I believe this is achievable through experience which the organizers have gained in the last couple of years. 

Writing your Story:
Unfortunately, Africans (both on the continent and in the diaspora) have never had the joy, resources and the platform to write and communicate their own history (culture, religion, traditions, etc.) to the rest of the world. This role has often been occupied by foreign media, especially western media who, evidently, have always presented Africans in the light of their own expectations, imaginations and purposes.

Going forward, this situation has to change and the AYEA showcased that this is a viable avenue for the African Diaspora to tell its own story.

Logistics, Hospitality and Services:
As a Professional Project Manager, I could see that a lot of planning, time, resources and engagements have been invested into this event or I'd say project.

The outcome was simply remarkable - participants neither noticed any technical issues nor logistical challenges.

On the other hand,  I thought the representation and involvement of the African Diaspora in Hamburg leaves much to be desired. Yes, more hands on deck! Hamburg has the largest number of Africans in Germany and I am convinced they could put more resources together to expand the dimensions of this event. I'd also expect to see more African businesses in Hamburg taking up the role of sponsors for this event.

By Alex Kofi Appiah PMP
Senior IT Project Manager
Essen, Germany

TopAfric Media Network

The KidsRadio project aims at strengthening the self-confidence of children and young adults.  It is designed to offer the participants a platform where they can learn how to be radio presenters. It is a way to help them decide early on what they wish to pursue in life.

The ultimate goal is for one or two extraordinary talented kids to have their own radio program at Radio TopAfric. The program is design for kids and young adults between the ages of 10 -21, who want to run a radio program and become stars of tomorrow. It will also teach them how to blog as well.

The workshop which will run for 3 months and will accommodate about 10 participants. Workshop training will take place only on the weekends. The workshop will only last for 90 minutes each Saturday. From 3pm – 4.30pm 

Module 1: Research & Interview:
A: We teach them how to research topics and personalities via the internet prior to hosting an interview or prior to doing a live show on radio.
B: We also teach them how to find topics of interest.
C: We teach them how to work in groups and also how to ask the right questions? 

Module 2: Promo & Equipment
A: We teach them how to promote themselves through social media
B: We teach them how to handle the Microphone and equipment

Module 3: Record live show & Blog
A: We teach them how to record a live radio show
B: We teach them what needs to be done after ending a live radio show and also how to post a recorded show on a blog site as well as how to blog.

Cooperation partner:
Our co-operation partner is LUKULULE e.V. They will provide a network of young artists and professional artists that will be helping TopAfric and participants. For example, a play coach will work with our participants so that the participants will be strengthened for a live online show.

The participant will be glad to be part of this one time experience, after the course, all participants will receive a certificate from TopAfric. The workshop is led by Jesse Georgy, a journalist from NDR, who has experience in team leadership at the Lukukule e.V.

https://www.beddy.de

The Ghana Community in Hamburg is to conduct an election to elect new executive members of the Ghana Union. The election is schedule to take place on Saturday, the 9^th of September 2017. From 17.00 – 20.00
The event is taking place at the First Foundation, Mexico Ring 19, 22297 Hamburg (City Nord)

The following Ghana Union Executive positions are to be contested for:
1. President
2. Vice President
3. General Secretary???
4. Vice General Secretary
5. Financial Secretary
6. Youth Organizer
7. Organizing Secretary
8. Women Organizer

Responsibilities:

• To support the social and economic welfare of Ghanaians in Hamburg
• To provide leadership and direction for economic growth
• To stimulate the spirit of patriotism amongst Ghanaians living in Hamburg
• To encourage networking amongst Ghanaian institutions home and abroad
• To represent and serve as a mouth piece of the Ghana Community

The Union of Ghanaian Associations in Germany (UGAG) e.V. has through Mr. William Nketia (President) confirmed their participation. They will be in to observe the elections.

Hamburg has the largest number of Ghanaians in Germany, a free and fair election is paramount to all

God Bless Ghana
God Bless GermanyContact:
Desmond John Beddy -/Electoral Chairman
Tel: 017632140550
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Mr. Smith - We have to talk! So heisst die neue Radioshow bei TopAfric die Montag bis Freitag ab dem 12.01.2017 um jeweils 15:00 Uhr ausgestrahlt wird. Moderiert wird die Sendung von dem selbst ernannten "Gentleman of Talk" Shadon Smith (30), der sich mit vielen Themen auseinandersetzt die unsere heutige Gesellschaft betreffen. 

Themen wie z.B. die Frage nach der Rollenverteilung zwischen Männern und Frauen im 21. Jahrhundert. Gehören Frauen hinter dem Herd während der Mann das Geld verdient, oder geht die Frau arbeiten und der Mann zieht sich die Kochschürze an? Brauchen Frauen heutzutage überhaupt noch einen Mann für ein glückliches Familienleben? "Mr. Smith - We have to talk!". Neben den Sozialen Themen werden auch politische Themen behandelt wie die Frage nach Donald Trump: Kann es mit ihm besser werden? "Mr. Smith - We have to talk!".

Moderiert wird frei aus dem Bauch heraus, wobei auch die Interaktion mit den Zuhörern ein wichtiger Bestandteil der Sendung ist. Die Radioshow steht unter dem Motto "Deine Meinung zählt". Somit sind alle Zuhörer bei Mr. Smith - We have to talk! aufgerufen sich zu den Themen zu beteiligen und über die Studiohotline mitzureden.

Euch erwartet eine unterhaltsame Show mit angenehmer RnB und Hip Hop Musik aus den 90er bis 2000er Jahre, ebenso viel Charme und Emotionen in den Moderationen. We have to talk!

http://topafric.com/index.php/online-live-radio
Thomas Rudd

Following the recent tragic occurrence in Sierra Leone's capital, Freetown, TopAfric as a media house has decided to fulfill it's social responsibility with the help and support of the African community. We therefore wish to humbly bring to the notice of the whole African community, the TopAfric intiative "SUPPORT THE SURVIVORS OF SIERRA LEONE MUDSLIDE".

This initiative is intended to gather items that will be of immense help to over 3000 people that displaced and left destitute after the disaster-struck in Sierra Leone.

Sources however have it that,  the country is likely to experience the same tragic incident that happened on the 8th of August 2017 in the capital. Currently, residence living in buildings constructed on the "Mountain Side" are being propelled to relocate to avoid any of such tragic incident that claimed over 400 lives, leaving others missing. 

One will say, the survivors are very lucky. But really, what did someone who lost 28 members of her family survive for if they will live the rest of their lives, suffering?

What would a survivor who has lost his/her home and everything they ever worked for in their lifetime, live on?

How will a country whose economy is not buoyant enough to cater for all survivors?

However sad or heart-rendering it might sound, there is a way out, if only the African community will sympathise and donate anything they can to make a difference.

TopAfric is therefore appealing to churches, groups and the African community in the various suburbs of Germany to bring in old or new shoes, clothes and blankets. Toiletteries  and donations in the form of money no matter how small will also be accepted. The donations will then be tendered in to the Embassy of Sierra Leone in Berlin to be transported to Sierra Leone.

 Items can however be brought to our offices at Wandsbeker Chausee 15, 22089  Hamburg, Germany.

Individuals can also contact us via email  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call us on 0049 (0) 40 88307599 , 0049 17632140550  or 0049 15234016895 between the hours of 10:00 and 6pm. 

To love is to give and in giving,younreceive a blessing.

Effiya