Nobody succeeds alone – Sir Sam Jonah reflects on journey to business leadership

Business leader and Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast, Sir Sam Jonah, has challenged the notion of the self-made individual, saying his rise to the top of the mining industry was made possible by the support, guidance and opportunities provided by others.

Delivering the keynote address at the 2026 TrueLife Experience at the Kempinski Hotel in Accra, he reflected on his journey from the mining town of Obuasi to becoming chief executive of Ashanti Goldfields at the age of 36.

“I did not get there alone, and I want to say so plainly, because self-made is one of the great lies of public life. Nobody is self-made,” he said.

“There were men who taught me, men who covered for my mistakes, and men who took a risk on me when the safer bet was obvious,” he added.

Sir Sam specifically acknowledged Tiny Rowland of Lonrho, whom he credited with giving him the chance to lead Ashanti Goldfields.

“Tiny Rowland of Lonrho, for all his complexities, was one of those who looked at a young Ghanaian and said, let him run it. The miners themselves were my first mentors. They taught me the mountain,” he said.

He, however, stressed that receiving an opportunity was only part of the journey, noting that individuals must take responsibility for making the most of the chances they receive.

“Somebody may open one for you. Nobody can walk through it for you. And on the other side, nobody gives you a grace period,” he said.

Sir Sam Jonah also credited his parents for instilling values of humility and respect that have guided his personal and professional life.

He said his mother taught him that achievement should never become an excuse for arrogance or disrespect towards others.

“My mother had no patience for arrogance. You could achieve something impressive, but that did not give you permission to become unpleasant. It certainly did not excuse you from treating another person with respect,” he said.

He also recalled his father's reminder that people do not choose the circumstances into which they are born, including their parents, opportunities and advantages.

“That understanding makes it difficult to look down on somebody whose opportunities have been fewer than your own,” he said.

The 2026 TrueLife Experience, held under the theme “The Audacity to Dare”, brought together business executives, entrepreneurs, policymakers, professionals and emerging leaders.

The event focused on courage, personal development and purposeful action, with discussions on how individuals can translate their potential into tangible results.