The School of Business Graduate Students’ Association (KSBGSA) at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST), has organized a Brand and Digital Presence Forum to help students understand the importance of personal branding, digital visibility and professional reputation in today's competitive environment.
Speaking at the forum, the Head of Media and Events at the University Relations Office, KNUST, Mr. Emmanuel Kwasi Debrah, challenged participants to evaluate their online presence and consider how they are perceived in the digital space.
"When people search for your name online, what do they find? Your digital footprint has become an important part of your personal and professional identity," he said.
Mr. Debrah highlighted the role of visibility, consistency and strategic storytelling in creating opportunities. He encouraged students to showcase their achievements, share meaningful experiences and use platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram purposefully to strengthen their personal brands.
He noted that personal branding extends beyond social media activity and encompasses an individual's values, communication style, appearance, professional conduct and reputation.
According to him, a strong personal brand can influence career prospects, professional relationships and public perception, making it essential for students and young professionals to be intentional about how they present themselves both online and offline.
"Personal branding is not about creating a false image; it is about ensuring that the opportunities, achievements and values that define you are visible to the people who matter. If you do not tell your story, someone else will tell it for you," he said.
Mr. Debrah further urged participants to focus on building credibility and expertise, stressing that a strong personal brand is developed through consistency, professionalism and meaningful contributions.
The President of the KSB Graduate Students’ Association, Mr. Albert Cheetham, said the forum formed part of the Association's efforts to provide students with practical knowledge and skills that complement their academic training and prepare them for leadership and career success.
He encouraged participants to apply the lessons learned to enhance their professional growth and position themselves for opportunities in an increasingly digital and interconnected world.
The event was also attended by the Vice President, Mr. Gabriel Brefo Anokye; the General Secretary, Ms. Matilda Serwaa Tuffuor; the Financial Secretary, Ms. Akosua Sarfoaa Ofori Atta; the Judicial Chairperson, Ms. Tifanny Nana Adjoa Akuamoah; the Gender Commissioner, Ms. Makafui Gablah Joycelyn; the Electoral Commissioner, Mr. Samson Buabeng; and the Organizing Secretary, Ms. Esther Nyarko.