In a tribute, Ernestina, known as “Lawyer Tina,” reflects on the profound impact of Nana Appiantua IV, the Nifahemaa of Afutuakwa Traditional Area, who changed her life and those of several others through her selfless generosity. Nana Appiantua, who passed away seven years ago, is remembered as a beacon of hope and a mentor whose legacy continues to inspire.
Lawyer Tina recalls a pivotal moment in 2009 when, as a 15-year-old Junior High School graduate with an impressive aggregate of 7, she faced financial barriers to attending Senior High School (SHS). With no Free SHS policy in place at the time, her dream of furthering her education seemed out of reach. While heading to the farm with her father to scrape together non-existent admission fees, a life-changing opportunity emerged.
A classmate, already sponsored by Nana Appiantua, recommended Tina to the queen mother, who was seeking a female student with strong academic potential to support. “God bless him,” Tina says gratefully. “Nana became my ticket to free SHS and the first mentor I ever had.”
Based in Tema but deeply committed to her role as Nifahemaa in Assin Foso, Nana Appiantua embraced Tina as her own daughter. During their first meeting, she offered wisdom that resonated deeply: “She told me she could have brought me dresses and accessories from her travels, but that’s not what I needed at 15,” Tina recalls. Nana’s advice was clear: “Ernestina, learn hard, and you will soon be able to afford more things than I have.”
Nana Appiantua’s generosity extended to at least four other students during the same period, ensuring their school fees were covered and allowing them to focus on their studies. Her support lifted burdens and opened doors for young minds to thrive.
Tragically, Nana Appiantua passed away seven years ago, just as Tina gained admission to the Ghana School of Law. “She used to call me ‘small madam,’” Tina says with a smile, her voice tinged with both loss and resolve. “When I share my knowledge and give back to the world, it’s because Nana gave her resources freely to me when I had no hope.”
Now a practicing lawyer, Tina embodies the values Nana instilled in her. During a recent job interview, she spoke passionately about her mentor, ensuring the queen mother’s legacy endures. “She mentored me into the woman I have become,” Tina says. “God knows I will do more to honor her legacy.”
Nana Appiantua IV’s impact continues to ripple through the lives she touched. Her selflessness transformed futures, and her memory lives on in the achievements of those she uplifted. As Lawyer Tina vows to carry forward her mentor’s mission, she declares, “You were truly a queen, Nana. Your legacy will live longer through me and the many people you cared for.”
Rest in peace, Nana Appiantua IV—a true queen whose light shines on through Lawyer Tina and beyond.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1EYULHE39c/?mibextid=wwXIfr