The inspiring story of Philip Osei Bonsu – OB: Meteoric rise from Elubo to the Ghana Bar

• Posted on October 14, 2024October 14, 2024
• by Nana Kwesi Coomson
• Comment

The General Legal Council of Ghana on Friday 11th October, 2024 ushered in barristers and solicitors to the Ghanaian bar.

While this ceremony may seem routine, one individual stands out for his inspiring journey—Philip Osei Bonsu, affectionately known as “OB” to many.

From humble beginnings in Elubo, a small border town in the Western Region of Ghana, Philip has become a lawyer, a prominent voice in the media, and a celebrated leader.

A humble beginning with big dreams

Growing up in Elubo, Philip Osei Bonsu’s early life was far from the paths typically associated with future legal minds.

The small town, known primarily as a border crossing into Côte d’Ivoire, was not a place many would expect to cultivate the ambitions of a future lawyer, media executive, and thought leader.

Yet, Philip set his sights on a greater future in this unassuming setting.

His educational journey took him to St. John’s School in Sekondi, where his academic talent became evident.

From there, he went to the University of Ghana, graduating with First Class Honors in Linguistics and Theatre Arts.

But Philip’s thirst for knowledge and self-improvement didn’t end there.

He earned an MSc in Corporate Communication and Public Affairs from Robert Gordon University in Scotland, a prestigious Tullow Scholarship, and pursued additional training through the Mandela Washington Fellowship at the University of San Diego, California, where he obtained a Post Graduate Certificate in Leadership and Social Entrepreneurship.

A media luminary

While Philip Osei Bonsu’s achievements in academia are commendable, it is his illustrious career in the media that has made him a household name in Ghana.

As the Programs Manager of Asempa FM, a subsidiary of Multimedia Group, and the host of the award-winning political and current affairs show Ekosiisen, Philip has become a respected voice in shaping national discourse.

Through his thoughtful moderation and in-depth interviews, he has earned a reputation as one of the leading journalists in Ghana today.

His work in media management, combined with his talents as a broadcaster, has positioned him as a significant figure in Ghana’s media landscape.

Under his leadership, Ekosiisen has not only won awards but also influenced public opinion and policy discussions at the highest levels.

An advocate for social change and literacy

Beyond the microphone, Philip’s commitment to social change is evident in his involvement with organizations that aim to make a difference.

He serves as an Advisory Board Member of the Financial Literacy Foundation, Africa, where he works to empower people through financial education.

Additionally, he holds a seat on the Board of Pent Media Centre and contributes to the global editorial team of the same organization.

His passion for social entrepreneurship and leadership, honed through his international experiences, has driven his continued advocacy for youth empowerment and financial literacy across the African continent.

The law beckons

Even with all these accolades, Philip’s desire to effect change in society didn’t stop at media and advocacy.

Perhaps as fate will have it, Philip was born to advocate, and today, the Lord has put a worldly blessing on this gift.

OB’s ambition extended into the legal field, leading him to pursue an LLB at Central University, and subsequently earn a Qualifying Certificate (QC) and Barrister-at-Law (BL) from the esteemed Ghana School of Law.

Today, as Philip Osei Bonsu is officially called to the Ghana Bar, he enters a new chapter in his remarkable journey.

Becoming a barrister and solicitor of the Supreme Court of Ghana adds yet another dimension to his diverse career, enabling him to leverage both his legal expertise and media influence to advocate for justice and equity.

A future full of promise

Philip’s story is a powerful reminder that no matter where you start, dedication, resilience, and belief in your potential can lead to extraordinary accomplishments.

From Elubo to Accra, from a small-town boy to a lawyer, media manager, and global leader, Philip Osei Bonsu exemplifies what it means to dream big and work hard to make those dreams a reality.

As he takes on this new role, his community, his colleagues, and his many listeners will no doubt be watching, eager to see how he continues to shape the future of Ghana, both in the courtroom and beyond.

Philip’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and serves as an inspiration for the next generation of Ghanaian leaders.