Attafoe: A Young Leader Shaped by Faith and Responsibility

Before the sun rose over the Gyankekrom community, 12-year-old Attafoe was on his knees, surrounded by his family. They were engaged in their daily morning devotion, and at the centre of this spiritual session, Attafoe's voice was steady and clear as he praised God and sought his guidance to help the family cope with the day's challenges. Afterwards, he rushed to help with minor household chores before leaving for school.

While most boys his age are preoccupied with playground games, Attafoe carries a different, self-imposed responsibility. He is the gentle anchor of his home, a young boy whose character is becoming the quiet talk of the town.

“He wakes up with a purpose,” his mother shares, her voice warm with a pride that transcends mere parental bias. “I don’t have to call him twice. He sees what needs to be done, and he does it.”

This sense of duty extends from the spiritual to the practical. After leading the family in prayer and reflection, Attafoe seamlessly moves on to helping with household chores. Whether he is fetching water, tidying the yard or helping to care for his younger siblings, he carries out his duties with a quiet dignity that belies his age. He wasn't always like this.

"This change came after he joined a kid club formed by World Vision Ghana. We are witnessing drastic changes and transformation of behaviour among members of the club," she added.  

This dignity, coupled with profound respect and obedience, has not gone unnoticed. In a society where the growing divide between the generations is often lamented by elders and parents alike, Attafoe is becoming a living benchmark.

“When we tell our children to be respectful, we now have a name we can point to,” says Kwesi, an elder and neighbour. “We say, ‘Look at Attafoe. See how he carries himself. See how he speaks to his elders, how he helps his family without being told.’ He is a good boy, a blessing.”

This “measurement of standard”, as some parents have come to call it, is not something that Attafoe sought. For him, it is simply the right way to live. He learned this participating in the Let the Children Come programme. When asked about his role in leading devotions, he shyly looks down, a humble smile playing on his lips.

“It is important for our family to start the day with God,” he says softly. “And at home, my parents work hard. If I can help, then the load is lighter for everyone. It is my duty to help while they work harder to meet the household needs,” he says.

His mother watches him from across the room, her expression showing both sternness and deep affection. 'We didn't teach him this with a heavy hand,' she reflects. 'We supported him, and he understood. In his heart, he knows that strength is not for oneself, but for the family and the community.'

In Attafoe's simple, unassuming life, the community of Gyankekrom is witnessing a powerful truth: that the future is built not only in classrooms, but also in quiet moments of devotion; in willing hands that share the load; and in the respectful heart of a young boy who, without realising it, is already leading the way.

He is not just immersed in spiritual development; he is also devoted to doing things that bring happiness and pride to his family. His leadership is not only seen at the family level; he takes on a leadership role in school and among his peers when they are grouped  together for a task.

Attafoe developed his love for God and a sense of responsibility by participating in the Let the Children Come (LCC) Project being implemented by World Vision Ghana. Through the project, he learned about self-discipline, morality and the responsibility of adults and children as well as  stewardship of the creation. A club member, he took a lot of lessons from the Empowered Worldview curriculum, including reading the Bible and building a relationship with God through prayer and worship. 

For Attafoe, taking on responsibility and leadership is fundamental; every child needs to prepare for a better future. I learned this through our club activities," he said. 

Now, his character is setting an example for other parents in the community.