Popular sports journalist and on-air personality Saddick Adams, widely known as Sports Obama, has urged public figures and professionals to be more transparent about the privileges that shaped their journeys to success.
In a message he shared on Facebook sighted by MyNewsGh, he argued that leaving out key details when recounting one’s story distorts reality and creates unfair expectations for others striving to make it.
“If your uncle gave you two hundred million cedis in 2005 to commence your business, say it,” Adams said, stressing that financial support from family can be a defining moment that sets someone apart.
He continued by pointing to historical and political connections that have eased the paths of some successful people:
“If your great-grandfather was ambassador during Nkrumah’s time, say it. If your grandfather was Chief Director of Ministry of Finance during the PNDC era, say it.”
Adams also highlighted inherited assets that often play silent roles in many success stories.
“If you were a beneficiary of a Tesano house under a will, where your factory started, say it. If your grandmother had shops at Kantamanto—reason you own one at 25—say it.”
Using vivid examples, he drew attention to professional advancement made possible through family background:
“If your dad was an Army General, his guide and support partly reason you are a Major at 27, say it.”
For him, the real issue is not privilege itself but the tendency to hide it when narrating personal achievements.
“When you have the microphone to speak about your success to a gathering, don’t hide the crucial details. Partial disclosure distorts the path and fakes the story.”
Adams underscored that these privileges are rare and not something to be ashamed of.
“These are privileges open to a very few. You’re not to be blamed for having a privilege. But also don’t fail to disclose that watershed moment.”
He warned against misleading others into thinking their struggles stem from laziness or lack of effort when, in reality, the playing field is uneven.
“Don’t let people question their journey and efforts by making them believe you both started the race from the same spot, or that you were even worse.”
Concluding his appeal, Adams admitted that full honesty might dull the appeal of certain inspirational tales—but it would make them authentic.
“Perhaps it will lessen the sweetness of the story, but it will be the real story. Yes bossmen and bosswomen.”
