The Bukom Boxing Arena erupted with applause as 15-year-old Adjoa Baaba Barnes stood proudly on the podium, bronze medal in hand, at the African Youth Weightlifting Championships. For the teenager from the Senya Beraku, this was more than just a medal — it was the beginning of a dream taking shape.
Barnes, the daughter of Ipi Kwa Bentum a traditional ruler of Senya Bereku in the Central Region showed poise and strength beyond her years to secure third place against some of the continent’s most promising young lifters. Her remarkable performance not only earned her a spot on the medal table but also sealed her qualification to represent Ghana at the upcoming Commonwealth Games.
Her journey into weightlifting began just a few years ago in Senya Bereku, where she was inspired by watching older athletes train. With limited facilities and equipment, she started her lifting career in modest surroundings, often improvising with what was available. Despite the challenges, her natural talent shone through, and with the encouragement of coaches and family, she quickly rose through the ranks.
Her coach, visibly proud after her medal-winning performance, described Barnes as a special talent. “Adjoa has an incredible work ethic for her age. She never complains, she listens carefully, and she always wants to do more. That is what sets her apart. If she continues like this, she has the potential to become one of Ghana’s finest weightlifters,” he said.
The Ghana Weightlifting Federation hailed her achievement as a beacon of hope for the sport. “Adjoa’s story is exactly why we invest in youth development. She has shown that with talent and determination, Ghana can compete with the very best. We are excited to see how she grows and what she will achieve at the Commonwealth Games,” a federation spokesperson said.
Her family, visibly emotional after her triumph, could not hide their pride. Her father, Ipi Kwa Bentum, said: “To see my daughter carry the name of Senya Bereku and Ghana so high at just 15 fills me with joy. She has worked hard, and we will continue to stand by her as she pursues this path.”
For Barnes herself, the bronze medal is only the beginning. With a wide smile and tears of joy, she shared her excitement: “This medal means everything to me. It shows that the hard work is paying off. I want to train even harder and give my best for Ghana at the Commonwealth Games. My dream is to one day become a champion for my country.”
From lifting in the humble corners of Senya to earning a place on the continental podium, Adjoa Baaba Barnes embodies the spirit of Ghanaian resilience — and her journey is only just beginning.
