Our conversations were meant to cover the bigger picture: how universities structure career services, track engagement, and build lasting employer relationships. Before we could get into the broader discussion, almost every university kept returning to one thing: virtual career fairs.

It was not hard to understand why once we heard how they talked about the ones they already run.

The physical career fair has a ceiling

Physical career fairs remain important. Universities invest in them, students show up for them, and employers value the face time they provide.

But the effort required to run one is significant: venues, employer coordination, student registration, day-of logistics, all managed by career teams that are often already stretched. That limits how often they can realistically happen.

The result is a calendar with one, sometimes two, career fairs a year and long quiet stretches in between. For students and employers who operate on different timelines, those gaps add up.

And in room after room, universities were already thinking about how to close them.

What kept coming up in every room

When universities saw the virtual career fair feature inside Anaanse, the question was almost always the same: "Can we actually run one of those?"

It was not about novelty. It was about what it would allow them to do: run more events, more often, without the same overhead each time.

The picture that emerged across conversations was consistent. Keep the physical fair for in-person presence, and use virtual career fairs to maintain engagement in between. Not a replacement. A complement that makes the overall calendar more active.

A shift already happening

Virtual career fairs are not a new concept. Institutions across the world already run them as a regular part of how they connect students with employers. Locally, some universities have quietly started doing the same.

What is changing is the appetite. More institutions are asking the question, exploring what it would look like in their context, and realising the barrier to getting started is lower than they assumed.

That is exactly the gap Anaanse was built to close. If your institution is ready to move beyond the annual fair, reach out to us for a demo at hello@anaanse.com or visit anaanse.com.

https://anaanse.com/career-centers

If that sounds like you, keep reading.

Maybe you were ghosted. Maybe you didn’t hear about the opening early enough. Or you just didn’t know where to start. No worries. Here’s what you can do now—to prepare and come back stronger next time.

First of All: It’s Not Your Fault

Let’s be honest.

In Ghana (and other parts of Africa), it’s not easy to find internships.

• Some schools don’t help students find jobs.

• Some people only hear about opportunities after the deadline.

• Many don’t have “connections” to help.

• Some companies only choose students from certain schools.

That’s not your fault. But now it’s your job to be smart and take action.

Don’t Just Sit and Wait

No internship? Doesn’t mean you should do nothing.

Use this time to grow. Here’s how:

• Help a small business (marketing, social media, records)

• Volunteer at a clinic, school, church, or NGO

• Join a student group on campus and take up real tasks

• Start a small project with friends (event, blog, business idea)

It doesn’t have to be big. It just has to be real.

What matters is the impact—not the title.

Keep Track of What You Do

Whatever you do, write it down:

• What did you work on?

• What problem did you solve?

• What did you learn?

This will help you explain your experience in your next CV or interview.

Example:

“I helped a food seller keep track of orders with Google Sheets. She made fewer mistakes and saved more money.”

That’s better than saying “I have no experience.”

Be Seen Online

You don’t need to be a social media expert. Just share small things:

• A lesson from your side project

• Something you’re learning in your field

• A challenge you faced and how you solved it

This helps people discover you. It also shows that you’re serious about your career.

Ask for Help the Right Way

Don’t just say:

“Hi, please help me get a job.”

Try this instead:

“Hi, I’m studying [course] and I saw you work at [company]. Can I ask for 10 minutes of your time or get feedback on my CV?”

This way, people are more likely to respond and help you.

Learn New Things (Even Without Money)

You don’t need a lot of money to build skills.

You can start with:

• Free online courses (Coursera, ALX, LinkedIn Learning)

• Industry groups on WhatsApp or Telegram

• Campus clubs and alumni groups

Don’t focus on certificates. Focus on building real skills.

You’re Not Late. Your Story Is Still Being Written.

Yes, internships help. But they are not the only way.

You can still grow and build yourself this season.

Your story next year can be:

“I didn’t get an internship last year—but I worked on X, learned Y, and now I’m ready for Z.”

That’s powerful. And employers respect that.

Looking for Where to Start? Join Anaanse.

We built Anaanse so students and young professionals across Ghana can discover real opportunities, not just wait to be lucky.

Whether you’re trying to learn, connect, or get hired—this is where you begin.

👉🏽 Join Anaanse today and stop waiting for the next chance to find you. Go find it.

what advice do you have for students and recent graduates who may be feeling discouraged or uncertain about their career prospects, especially in challenging economic times?

"Identifying the right career and landing a dream job requires planning and dedication - it mostly just doesn’t happen. One needs to commit to investing in personal discovery, exploring career options available, setting goals, and taking action to achieve the goals. You need to put in some work and start the journey early!

It is easier when your passion/talents/interests align with your career, so fundamentally investing in discovering your purpose brings clarity and some sense of direction when uncertain and confused about career prospects. Once you discover your WHY, you will know your WHAT and HOW!

For students who are uncertain about their careers, take advantage of experiential learning initiatives such as engaging in extracurricular activities/volunteering, internships, job shadowing, competitions/hackathons to help you make informed career decisions. Employers are attracted to students and recent graduates with skills relevant to the success of their business, hence the need to research and hone these employability skills.

Also, building and nurturing strategic relationships enhance career prospect outcomes. As students and recent graduates, your currency for unlocking career opportunities largely depends on your personal and professional networks. Leverage these relationships to discover career opportunities, mentorship/career guidance, and other support. Keep in mind that you must also bring value to the relationship! What skills or services can you offer to your network for free or at a discounted fee? Eg: planning/organizing events, social media management, blogging/content creation, marketing, babysitting, etc.

Feeling overwhelmed about the future is expected; however, effective planning, researching, speaking to the right people, and honing relevant skills can help reduce the uncertainties. These activities stimulate your creative and critical thinking skills, which can set you on an entrepreneurship journey, and regardless of the challenging economic times, one can identify and create opportunities.

Do the work. There’s no shortcut to a sustainable career!" - Akua Ampah

Conclusion:

Akua Ampah provides a roadmap for students and recent graduates to navigate the uncertainties of their career journeys. From discovering their purpose to leveraging experiential learning and strategic networking, her advice emphasizes the proactive measures needed to build a successful and sustainable career in any economic climate.

Visit anaanse.com for the best internships and entry-level jobs.

What are some common mistakes you've seen recent graduates make in their job search?

“One of the most common mistakes I see recent graduates and seasoned professionals make is failing to understand the value they have to offer an employer and how to position their value in a way that would interest an employer. I encourage graduates not just to apply for a job but to communicate that they understand their employer's most significant problems (the reason why they are hiring) and how their experience, skillset, education, etc, positions them as the person to meet their employer's needs. You must research and understand an employer's needs and position job applications to speak to that.” - Eunice Asante

Eunice Asante's insights shed light on the nuanced aspects of job searching that recent graduates might overlook. By recognizing their value, tailoring applications, and conducting thorough research, job seekers can position themselves as valuable assets to potential employers. As graduates embark on their career journeys, integrating these strategies can significantly enhance their chances of securing fulfilling employment opportunities.

We extend our gratitude to Eunice Asante for sharing her expertise and invaluable advice with us. Stay tuned for more insights from industry experts as we continue to explore the dynamic landscape of career development.

Additional Tip: Explore Our WebApp! As you navigate the job search landscape, we invite you to explore our web application designed to make it easier for students and recent graduates to find internships and other experiential learning activities. Visit
anaanse.com

Many students embark on their college journeys with various aspirations, including acquiring new skills, forming lifelong connections, and ultimately securing better job prospects. While attending a reputable university can certainly increase your chances of landing an interview, it’s important to recognize that in today’s competitive job market, a degree alone may not be enough to stand out. This is where internships come into play, offering a powerful opportunity to supercharge your resume and propel your career forward. In this blog post, we’ll delve into why early internships are vital for career success.

Opening Doors to Full-Time Employment:

Internships serve as a direct pathway to full-time job offers. By engaging in a few-month internship program, you give companies the chance to validate your skills and assess your ability to learn and adapt quickly. It’s encouraging to note that a significant percentage of interns receive post-graduation offers. These opportunities not only provide valuable experience but also offer a smooth transition into the professional world. Companies across various industries, often extend full-time employment offers to former interns. Starting early with internships increases your likelihood of securing a job right after graduation.

Enhancing Application Success:

Internship experience significantly boosts your chances of success in future job applications. Research reveals that students with at least one previous intern role are 30% more likely to receive positive responses from employers. By strategically pursuing internships throughout your college years, you develop a competitive edge that sets you apart from other candidates. Don’t wait until your final year to embark on the internship hunt — start early and maximize your opportunities.

Informed Career Choices:

Internships offer invaluable insights into different companies and industries, enabling you to make informed career decisions. By undertaking multiple internships, you gain exposure to various work environments, allowing you to evaluate which company cultures and industries align with your interests and goals. Discovering a passion or identifying areas you don’t enjoy during internships empowers you to make wiser career choices. It’s far easier to explore different options during internships than to find yourself dissatisfied with a full-time job shortly after starting. The more internships you complete, the better equipped you’ll be to make the right career choices.

Tips for Finding Internships:

1. Leverage Your Network: Tap into your personal and professional networks to uncover internship opportunities. Reach out to family, friends, and alumni who are working in different companies or industries. They can provide insights, guidance, and potentially even refer you to internship programs.

2. Engage with University Career Services: Make use of the career services department at your university. Career counselors can help you identify potential career paths, provide advice on finding internships, and connect you with relevant opportunities. They have valuable industry knowledge and can assist you in navigating the internship landscape in Ghana.

3. Research Company Websites: Explore the careers or internship sections of company websites. Many organizations in Ghana have dedicated pages highlighting their internship programs, application deadlines, and requirements. Even if you don’t meet all the criteria, it’s worth applying and using the experience to learn and grow.

4. Proactive Outreach: Don’t be afraid to reach out directly to companies you are interested in, even if they don’t have specific internship openings listed. Craft a personalized email expressing your enthusiasm for their organization and explaining how an internship with them would align with your career goals. This proactive approach can lead to exciting internship opportunities.

5. Embrace Local Opportunities: Look for internship platforms or programs specifically tailored to Ghanaian students. Explore initiatives and organizations focused on supporting local talent and connecting students with internship experiences. These opportunities may be found through university partnerships, industry associations, or online platforms.

Conclusion:

Internships play a pivotal role in shaping career trajectories. By prioritizing early internships, students can open doors to full-time employment, enhance their application success rates, and make informed career choices. Leverage your network, engage with university career services, explore company websites, proactively reach out to potential employers, and embrace local internship opportunities. Starting your internship journey early not only sets you apart from the competition but also equips you with valuable experiences and insights that pave the way for a successful career in today’s dynamic job market.

Visit anaanse.com to find internships and other experiential learning activities.

Inspiration: Addressing a Pressing Need

Anaanse was born out of a personal experience, the need for better support and resources for university students and early talents in their pursuit of meaningful internships and career opportunities. During our time in college, we noticed that the existing university career services fell short in guiding students through the challenging process of finding the right internships. Many students felt overwhelmed, uncertain of where to begin, and lacking the necessary guidance to make informed decisions.

To better understand the magnitude of the problem, we conducted a survey among students. The results were eye-opening. Many struggled to complete the required number of internships due to a lack of opportunities in their fields of study, fear of rejection, or limited access to paid internships. These barriers made it increasingly difficult to secure jobs and receive fair compensation upon graduation.

Driven by these insights and the passion to create a positive change, Anaanse was founded with the aim of increasing employability and providing the tools and opportunities needed to launch successful careers.

How Anaanse Works: Accessibility

Anaanse operates as a two-sided marketplace, connecting college students, recent graduates or early talents, and employers in a seamless and efficient manner. For college students, recent graduates, or early talents, the journey starts by signing up and creating a comprehensive profile that showcases your skills, experiences, and aspirations. Based on your profile, Anaanse provides personalized job recommendations, events, and resources tailored to your specific needs.

Through our platform, you gain access to employer profiles, enabling you to learn more about open roles, company culture, and exciting opportunities that align with your career goals. Applying for jobs becomes effortless with just a few clicks, streamlining the process and increasing your chances of success.

On the other side, employers have the opportunity to create an employer brand, attracting top talents. They can source talents through specific filters such as locations, schools, and skill sets, ensuring a perfect match for both parties. Employers can post job openings and descriptions, connecting with potential candidates through career fairs and events, fostering meaningful relationships that go beyond traditional recruitment methods.

Employer landing page

Exciting Features in the Pipeline

We are incredibly excited to announce some forthcoming features that will take your experience on Anaanse to the next level. Soon, you will have the opportunity to showcase your projects, demonstrating your skills and abilities beyond what a traditional resume can capture. Additionally, a unique feature will allow you to express your interest in employers, enabling employers to view your profile and extend invitations to apply for job roles. We cannot wait to unveil these exciting developments, providing you with even more opportunities to shine.

Our Progress and Future Plans

Currently, Anaanse is in the very early stage, looking ahead, our vision for Anaanse is to become one of the largest early talent networks, connecting talented individuals with a myriad of growth opportunities. We are committed to catalyzing change within the early career landscape. Our team, consisting of Elinam Quist, Jeremiah John Boateng, and Frank Zogli, is dedicated to making Anaanse a force for good in the world of early career development.

Partnerships and Investors: Building a Strong Foundation

We understand the importance of collaboration and support to achieve our mission effectively. Currently, we are in conversations with potential partners, both individuals and companies, who share our vision. Furthermore, we are actively seeking investment to accelerate our growth and bring about the much-needed change in the early career landscape. If you are interested in partnering with us or becoming an investor, we would love to hear from you and explore ways to collaborate.

What’s Next: Stay Tuned!

We have an exciting roadmap ahead, filled with improvements to the platform and a series of career fairs and events aimed at enhancing the early career landscape. Keep an eye out for our upcoming updates and announcements as we strive to create a thriving ecosystem where early talents have access to the support and resources needed to achieve their dreams.

Setting Anaanse Apart

What sets Anaanse apart from other platforms is our unwavering focus on early career development. We are exclusively dedicated to supporting talents throughout their entire journey, from the moment they enter school until they embark on their professional careers. Every employer on our platform is actively seeking to hire college students or early talents, creating an equal playing field for all. Moreover, we prioritize growth and success by enabling companies to specifically target talents from universities, giving students or early talents an edge in the job market.

Join Us on this Journey

We invite you to be a part of the Anaanse community and join us on this exhilarating journey to empower early talents, bridge the gap, and shape a future where everyone has equal opportunities to achieve their dreams. Together, we can create a world where your potential knows no bounds.

Thank you for believing in our mission and for being an integral part of Anaanse.

website: anaanse.com

Contact:

Email: hello@anaanse.com