'Quick Money' culture is undermining hard work among Ghana's youth, Total Logistics CEO Warns

The Chief Executive Officer of Total Logistics Ghana, Mr Emmanuel Percy Brown, has expressed concern about what he describes as a growing "quick money" culture among young people, warning that the pursuit of instant wealth is undermining hard work, patience and long-term career development.

Speaking in an interview with The Executive Spotlight, Mr Percy -Brown said many young people appear more interested in achieving rapid financial success than investing time in building sustainable careers and businesses.

Total Logistics Ghana is a freight forwarding, shipping and haulage company with operations across the country, including offices in Tema, East Legon and Takoradi.

"Quick money, quick money," he said, describing what he believes has become a common mindset among sections of the youth.

According to him, the desire for immediate rewards is contributing to unrealistic expectations about success, particularly at a time when social media platforms frequently showcase luxury lifestyles, expensive cars and displays of wealth.

The business leader argued that such portrayals often fail to reflect the years of sacrifice, discipline and perseverance required to achieve genuine success.

He said many young people compare themselves with the images and lifestyles they see online without understanding the realities behind them.

"The lies of social media are making people believe things happen overnight," he said.

Success takes time

Drawing on his own experience in business, Mr Percy -Brown stressed that successful careers are rarely built overnight.

He noted that many entrepreneurs spend years developing their skills, building networks and overcoming setbacks before achieving financial stability.

According to him, the pressure to become wealthy quickly can discourage young people from pursuing gradual but sustainable paths to success.

He said patience, commitment and consistency remain essential ingredients for professional and entrepreneurial growth.

The logistics executive urged young people to focus on acquiring practical skills and experience rather than seeking shortcuts.

Concerns over youth unemployment

His comments come against the backdrop of persistent concerns about youth unemployment in Ghana.

Many graduates continue to face difficulties securing employment after completing their studies, while others are exploring entrepreneurship and self-employment opportunities.

Mr Percy -Brown acknowledged the frustrations facing many young people but argued that economic challenges should not lead individuals to abandon the principles of hard work and perseverance.

He said young people should remain committed to developing themselves professionally while taking advantage of opportunities for training and skills development.

The CEO also expressed concern about the growing popularity of sports betting and other activities that promise quick financial rewards.

He cautioned young people against relying on gambling as a means of generating income, arguing that such practices often create false hopes and can lead to financial difficulties.

"They should stop betting. They shouldn't do drugs," he said.

According to him, success is more likely to come from productive activities such as education, skills acquisition and entrepreneurship than from attempts to make money through chance.

A call for values and discipline

Mr Percy- Brown said young people should place greater emphasis on integrity, discipline and honesty as they pursue their ambitions.

"Don't cheat. Be truthful. Work hard," he advised.

He argued that trust and reputation remain among the most valuable assets an individual can possess, particularly in business and professional life.

While acknowledging that many young people face economic pressures and uncertainty about the future, he maintained that lasting success is built on consistent effort rather than shortcuts.

He said Ghana's future depends largely on a generation that is prepared to

embrace hard work, develop skills and contribute productively to the country's development.

He urged young people to resist the temptation of instant gratification and instead focus on building careers and businesses that can create long-term opportunities for themselves and others.