A young entrepreneur – Joshua Ackah, 23, – has caught the attention of Prime Minister Gaston Browne who is praising him for his creativity and innovation.
Ackar, a resident of Royal Gardens, was a special guest of the prime minister on the popular Saturday afternoon radio programme, the Browne and Browne Show.
Ackah is the founder of ‘Individuals’, a new business specializing in customized license plates for motor vehicles.
He explained that the idea began just three months ago and the business was officially launched only a month prior. However, after their debut, the Transport Board released a statement saying that custom plates were illegal — temporarily halting their operations. Acting on the advice of his father, Ackah sought the intervention of the prime minister, given that he has made it clear that he favours opportunities for young people to get involved in business regardless of their age.
The Prime Minister, always an advocate for youth entrepreneurship, clarified the issue: “I haven’t given the go-ahead, but I’ve arranged a meeting with Mr. Hubert Jarvis, General Manager at the Transport Board. I believe at the front of the vehicle, it is permissible. You just have to pay for it and have it assigned officially.” That meeting takes place on Monday October 6.
He further emphasized the importance of regularizing such initiatives: “We’re trying to create a space for him to apply his trade — to be a supplier.”
When asked about pricing, Joshua mentioned that the plates were being sold for $300.00, and the Prime Minister humourously requested a custom one reading ‘Buffalo’ — although, as he noted, “that might be a bit too long.”
Prime Minister Browne was clearly enthusiastic for the young entrepreneur’s craftsmanship and enterprise. When Ackah proudly mentioned that the license plates were made of aluminum, the Prime Minister was quick to recognize the value: “You can’t lose with this. It’s durable.” The moment captured the supportive tone of the dialogue — a national leader recognizing innovation at the grassroots level.
Ackah’s dedication impressed the hosts, particularly his creative flexibility. When asked about customizing the plates further, the Prime Minister playfully brainstormed abbreviations for his own plate: “You could put WRD for World Boss.” Amidst the laughter, he even offered immediate support: “I’ll take $6,000 in plates from you — we’ll give them to our listeners and viewers.”
Ackah was deeply appreciative, and it was clear that this small gesture would significantly boost the visibility of his young business. “Much appreciated, sir,” he said with gratitude, as the studio echoed with applause and encouragement.
When asked about his team, Ackah proudly shared that the project was a family venture between him and his younger brother. Both were involved in graphic design, and Ackah had also built a strong background in music production and video creation.
“Originally, I’m a music producer,” he explained. “But since I do most of the work myself, I learned graphic design because I had to create my own cover art.”
This self-taught skillset — born from necessity and creative curiosity — now forms the backbone of his design enterprise.
Ackah is a graduate of the Antigua and Barbuda International Institute for Technology (ABIIT).
This is definitely a great mind , creative and discipline, a great gesture and encouragement to men, especially young men in todays society.
Antigua & Barbuda is a great place, with more young men adding to the Genesis of creativity, the future of the nation is bright ✊🏾