The Ghanaian Association of Ottawa (GAO) got its beginnings in the 1970's when a group of Ghanaian students and young professionals, resident in the NCR, came together for the purpose of forming an organization that will cater to their needs and interests. The association has been through both great and turbulent periods.Today the Ghanaian Association of Ottawa (GAO) is a non-profit community organization representing Ghanaians residing in the National Capital Region of Canada (NCR) Ottawa.GAO is committed to organizing Ghanaians socially, culturally and democratically in order to promote the collective needs of Ghanaians in the Ottawa-Gatineau region.
The National Capital Region (NCR) is currently home to over 1000 Ghanaians and Ghanaian-Canadians, many of whom are employed in the public sector, high tech and healthcare industries. There is also a significant student population who transition yearly into the various professions in and across Canada . Ottawa is also a home to the Ghanaian High Commission.
The GAO is committed to organizing Ghanaians socially, culturally and democratically in order to promote the collective needs of Ghanaians in the Ottawa-Gatineau region.
Robert Bismark Otoo, a University of Ghana graduate, began his Canadian journey in 1989 at the University of Guelph, serving as the President of the Ghanaian Community. In Toronto, he worked at RBC Dominion Securities before becoming a Software Engineer at Roadware Corporation.In Ottawa since 1997, he contributed 15 years at Statistics Canada and currently serves at Shared Services Canada as a Senior Systems Analyst. A founding member of the African-Canadian Association of Ottawa (ACAO), he champions community engagement. As the current President of the Ghanaian Association of Ottawa, Bismark Otoo actively mentors Ghanaian students and organizes community events like seminars, picnics, GhanaFest, and Independence Celebrations. He has played a vital role in supporting the Ghana High Commission (Ottawa) and participated in important delegations, showcasing his dedication to the Ghanaian community in Ottawa.
President of GAO -Mr Robert Bismark Otoo.
Meet Dr. Dinah Ama Boadi, the vibrant Vice President of GAO! She started with a science degree from KNUST, Ghana, and went on to earn an M.Sc. in Animal Science in Canada at the University of Alberta. Engaging with the Ghanaian Students Association, she later secured a Ph.D. in Animal Nutrition at the University of Manitoba. She worked as a Biologist at Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada in Sherbrooke in the area of Agriculture & Climate Change.Since 2005, Dinah has been with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency as a Science Specialist. She has been mentoring in STEM programs and since 2015, leading GAO as Vice President. Passionate about supporting students, she initiated a scholarship fund.
Dinah brings energy to GAO's community initiatives, focusing on language, culture, and exciting events. Beyond GAO, she serves in various capacities, emphasizing sustainability and mutual enrichment. Join Dinah's journey, where science meets community spirit and a touch of fun! encouraging each other with unique gifts and talents.
Vice President of GAO -Dr. Dinah Ama Boadi
Dr. Samuel Amartei Laryea, an economist, graduated from the University of Ghana, specializing in economics. He pursued graduate studies in Canada, earning his M.A. and Ph.D. in economics from Simon Fraser University, focusing on labour economics. Dr. Laryea taught at various institutions in Canada and the USA, with research spanning labour market issues and immigrant integration.In 2000, he joined the Federal Government in Ottawa, contributing to the Metropolis Project and presenting research globally. Dr. Laryea later worked on a significant indicators project with Social Development Canada in 2006. Currently, he serves as the Chief/Manager of Research at Employment and Social Development Canada, managing a team and contributing to policy development. Outside his professional life, Dr. Laryea is actively engaged in the Ghanaian community in Ottawa. Notable involvement includes reviving the Ghanaian Association of Ottawa in 2002, contributing to the draft Ghanaian Constitution during the Constitutional Review Committee's North American tour, and playing a role in establishing the Afro Canadian Chamber of Commerce in 2020. He is the Treasurer of the Ghanaian Association of Ottawa, overseeing finances and liaising with the Ghana High Commission.
Dr. Laryea's hobbies include gardening, sports, reading, and singing. His commitment to community engagement and leadership within the Ghanaian Association of Ottawa showcases his dedication to making a vibrant and supportive community.
Treasurer of GAO -Dr. Samuel Amartei Laryea
With a passion for creating unforgettable experiences and a love for meticulous planning, Peter Affum thrives in the dynamic world of event management. As an Event Director for the Association, I have dedicated my passion to orchestrating seamless and memorable events that leave a lasting impact on attendees.
Professional Experience: With a wealth of experience spanning 15 years in Events Industry, Logistics Management, Health/Safety, I have spearheaded a diverse range of events, from corporate conferences and product launches to gala dinners and cultural festivals. My expertise lies in conceptualizing, planning, and executing events with precision, creativity, and flair.
Areas of Expertise:
• Event Conceptualization and Design
• Strategic Planning and Execution
• Vendor and Venue Management
• Budgeting and Financial Management
• Team Leadership and Collaboration
• Crisis Management and Problem-solving
Interests: Outside of the event sphere, I am passionate about Soccer, Boxing and Volleyball. I believe in the importance of maintaining a well-rounded lifestyle to fuel creativity and inspiration.
Philosophy: I believe that every event has the power to tell a unique story and create meaningful connections. By infusing passion, creativity, and attention to detail into every aspect of the planning process, I strive to exceed expectations and deliver unforgettable experiences that resonate with attendees long after the event concludes.
Community Involvement: I am deeply committed to giving back to the community and leveraging the transformative power of events for social good. Whether through volunteering, fundraising initiatives, or supporting local causes, I believe in using my skills and expertise to make a positive impact beyond the realm of event management.
Programs Manager of GAO -Mr Peter Affum
Cynthia Kumah is a doctoral student at Carleton University. She holds an MA in Development Management and a BA in Human Resource Management.
As the founder and director of the NGO C-Trust Foundation in Ghana, she facilitates environmental, social, advocacy, and human rights activities. The foundation plays a critical role in women's empowerment, protecting women's and girls' rights, developing society, improving communities, and promoting citizen participation.
Cynthia enjoys socializing, networking, participating in community work, and volunteering. She agrees with Malcolm Gladwell's popular quote: "If you work hard enough and assert yoursel, and use your mind and imagination, you can shape the world to your desires.”
Secretary of GAO -Miss Cynthia Affum
Known professionally as Richard Best,Richard serves as the Manager at Large but has been recently focused on Marketing, Communications & Innovations at the Ghanaian Association of Ottawa. A seasoned marketer, Richard boasts extensive expertise in performance marketing, analytics, paid media, and website management. Renowned for his dynamic and innovative problem-solving skills, he also manages a successful digital marketing agency, Digivations, and a cleaning company, Green Clean & BBQ Shine, specializing in domestic house cleaning, grill cleaning, and window cleaning. Outside of his professional endeavors, Richard enjoys singing, adding a melodic touch to his multifaceted career.
Manager at Large at GAO
