PROFILE
Emmanuel Cisco is a highly sought-after inspirational speaker, prolific author and a serial entrepreneur based in Ghana. He is known for delivering powerful, lifechanging messages that inspire people to overcome challenges, discover their purpose, and reach their full potential. Despite growing up in extreme deprivation and spending his formative years in the challenging conditions of the Buduburam Refugee Camp, Cisco’s indomitable spirit propelled him to remarkable achievements. He graduated as the Best Student with a BSc in Economics (2013) from the prestigious Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA).
A BEST STUDENT / LEADER
Notably, he did so as an Albert Einstein DAFI Scholar, receiving full sponsorship from the Government of Germany through the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). His extraordinary journey attracted international recognition when the UNHCR featured his story in a documentary produced for the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Germany. Alongside other successful DAFI alumni, his remarkable story was showcased during a sideline meeting at the 72nd UN General Assembly in New York, commemorating the 25th DAFI Anniversary.
Thirteen (13) years ago, Cisco walked into Ghana’s petroleum downstream industry as an intern. And today he leads the management team at one of the fastest-growing Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs), Life Energy Company Limited, as the CEO/Managing Director. Under his leadership, the company continues to expand its footprint through innovation, operational excellence, and a strong commitment to delivering quality energy solutions while creating value for customers and stakeholders.
Beyond his achievements in business, he is deeply committed to transforming lives. As a true icon of inspiration for his generation, Cisco has dedicated his life to his mission of providing HOPE – Helping Other People Excel. He led a team of 30 passionate young people from eight (8) African countries in a nationwide Youth Empowerment Campaign known as the “HOPE Campaign”. Their goal was to inspire and empower at least 10,000 young people across Ghana by the end of 2021; which they achieved. He also embraced the role of Ambassador for championing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
AN INSPIRATIONAL ICON
A SOCIAL ENTREPRENEUR
. He co-founded Youth Empowerment for Progress (YEP), a nonprofit organization established in the Buduburam Camp that has empowered hundreds of young people through education, mentorship, entrepreneurship, and career development, helping many rewrite the story of their lives. For more than 18 years, Cisco has inspired audiences at conferences, universities, churches, and corporate events with his powerful life story and practical wisdom. Today, he continues to inspire individuals and organizations to rise above adversity, embrace purpose, and build lives of significance and lasting impact.
