The Founder of the G.N.S Foundation, Ambassador Dr. Sandra Ayivor, has expressed excitement and gratitude after receiving the African Diamond Award for Impact Leadership and Management in the Health Sector. She described the recognition as an encouragement for more than 13 years of advocacy and community-based work promoting sickle cell awareness through the foundation.

Speaking after receiving the award, Ambassador Ayivor said the honour demonstrates that even small efforts made at the community level are being recognised across the continent. She encouraged young people and change-makers to take action and make a difference, regardless of whether they have access to major platforms.

As part of activities marking September’s Sickle Cell Awareness Month, the foundation has been visiting schools and institutions to educate the public about the condition. Although funding constraints have prevented screening exercises this year, she stressed the importance of awareness creation, noting that many Ghanaians remain unaware of their sickle cell status.

She also announced that the foundation’s annual outreach programme, Time with Street Kids, will take place in December. The initiative, which has been running for about six years, combines feeding street children with extensive sickle cell education and awareness campaigns within communities.

Ambassador Ayivor, who has over 19 years of experience in the corporate and public sectors, including at the Food and Drugs Authority, said passion and commitment make it possible to balance professional responsibilities with advocacy work. She urged corporate professionals and individuals to embrace Corporate Social Responsibility, emphasising that everyone can contribute to creating a positive impact for future generations.