About Us

Welcome to Arena For Development Advocates

Who we are

Arena for Development Advocates (ADA) is a community-based, non-governmental organization dedicated to advancing inclusive development and social empowerment. Established in 2025 in Nsawam, Ghana, ADA was founded with the vision of creating a responsive and participatory platform that brings together community members, civil society actors, and development partners to address pressing social and developmental challenges.

At the core of ADA’s work is the belief that sustainable development is only achievable when people are empowered to actively shape their own futures. Our initiatives focus on building local capacities, promoting social inclusion, and supporting community-led solutions that address real needs. Through empowerment programs, capacity-building activities, advocacy, and social development projects, ADA aims to improve skills, enhance livelihoods, and foster civic participation.

What We Stand For

ADA stands for empowerment, inclusion, and social justice. We believe in strengthening the capacities of individuals and communities to actively participate in their own development. Our values are guided by equity, transparency, collaboration, and accountability. We advocate for social development initiatives that promote equal opportunities, community participation, and sustainable solutions that improve livelihoods and enhance social well-being.

Our Objectives

The objectives of Arena for Development Advocates (ADA) are guided by our commitment to empowering communities, promoting inclusive development, and fostering sustainable social change.

  • To empower individuals and communities through education, skills development, and capacity-building initiatives.
  • To promote inclusive and participatory community development that ensures equal opportunities for all.
  • To support social development programs that improve livelihoods and enhance community well-being.
  • To strengthen collaboration between communities, civil society organizations, and development partners.
  • To advocate for social justice, accountability, and community participation in development processes.
  • To amplify local voices and encourage active civic engagement in decision-making at all levels.

What we do

  • Community empowerment and capacity-building programs
  • Social development and livelihood support initiatives
  • Advocacy for inclusive and sustainable community development
  • Education, training, and skills development workshops
  • Youth and women empowerment programs
  • Civic engagement and community participation activities
  • Partnerships and collaboration with civil society and development actors
  • Research, awareness creation, and community outreach programs

How we work

  • Community-led and participatory approaches
  • Collaboration with local leaders, civil society, and development partners
  • Needs-based project design grounded in local realities
  • Capacity building and empowerment-focused interventions
  • Advocacy and dialogue to influence positive social change
  • Transparency, accountability, and ethical practice
  • Monitoring, learning, and continuous improvement

Who we work with

  • Local communities and community-based organizations
  • Youth groups and women’s associations
  • Traditional leaders and local authorities
  • Civil society organizations and NGOs
  • Development partners and donor agencies
  • Educational and training institutions
  • Volunteers, advocates, and social change agents

Core Values

  • Community empowerment and ownership
  • Inclusiveness and equity
  • Integrity, transparency, and accountability
  • Collaboration and partnership
  • Respect for diversity and human dignity
  • Sustainability and long-term impact
  • Commitment to social justice and positive change

MEET OUR TEAM

Our team at Arena For Development Advocates (ADA) is made up of dedicated professionals, community leaders, and volunteers who are passionate about driving social change and community development.
We bring together a diverse mix of expertise in project coordination, research, advocacy, capacity building, and community engagement. Each member is committed to our mission of empowering communities, promoting inclusive development, and fostering sustainable social transformation. By working collaboratively and leveraging our collective skills, we ensure that our programs are effective, impactful, and responsive to the needs of the communities we serve

Paul Anderson

Executive Director

Dr. Paul Kwaku Larbi Anderson is a researcher, social scientist, and development practitioner with a strong commitment to inclusive development and community empowerment. As Executive Director of Arena for Development Advocates (ADA), he provides strategic leadership and vision, guiding the organization’s efforts to promote sustainable community development and social transformation. With a solid background in research, policy analysis, and community-based interventions, Dr. Anderson brings evidence-based approaches to development practice. He is dedicated to strengthening local capacities, fostering partnerships, and amplifying community voices to ensure that development initiatives are impactful, participatory, and sustainable.

Enock Osae Gyan

Project Coordinator and Community Development Officer

Enock Osae Gyan serves as Secretary and Project Coordinator at Arena for Development Advocates (ADA). He is responsible for coordinating project activities, supporting planning and implementation processes, and ensuring effective documentation and communication within the organization. In his role as Secretary, he also oversees record keeping, meeting coordination, and organizational correspondence, contributing to the smooth and efficient functioning of ADA’s programs and operations. .

Justice Ahiakpati

Community Development Officer

ustice Ahiakpati is a member of Arena for Development Advocates (ADA) and serves as a Community Development Officer. He works closely with local communities to identify needs, support community-led initiatives, and encourage active participation in development programs. Through community engagement and grassroots coordination, he contributes to the effective implementation of ADA’s projects and the empowerment of community members.

Melvin Morrison Anderson

Research, Capacity Building & Training Officer

Melvin Morrison serves as the Research, Capacity Building & Training Officer at Arena for Development Advocates (ADA). He leads research activities that inform evidence-based programming while designing and delivering capacity-building and training initiatives for communities and stakeholders. His role supports skills development, knowledge sharing, and the strengthening of institutional and community capacities to achieve sustainable development outcomes.

Member Name

IT & Data Management Officer

Sylvester Nunya serves as the IT & Data Management Officer at Arena for Development Advocates (ADA). He is responsible for managing the organization’s digital systems, data collection processes, and information management tools. Sylvester supports efficient communication, ensures data accuracy and security, and provides technical support that enhances program implementation, monitoring, and reporting across the organization.