From herding cattle to Yale Law: Frederick Adongo’s inspiring journey backed by Alhaji Agongo’s philanthropy

In today's world, motivational stories are everywhere. However, few truly resonate emotionally. Frederick Agaaya Adongo's story is a rare exception.

Last week, at Yale University's graduation ceremony, he stood proudly in his academic regalia. Once a cattle herder from Zorkor in the Upper East Region, he now holds a Master of Laws (LL.M) degree from Yale Law School. “This is nothing short of exhilarating,” he said in an interview.

Frederick grew up in a humble background. He walked dusty paths where dreams often faded under the sun. He became the first Ghanaian to graduate with an LL.M from Yale in almost four decades. “I had no professional ambitions growing up,” he shared. “My journey to law school was divinely orchestrated.”

A significant part of this journey was Alhaji Seidu Agongo’s support. The renowned businessman and philanthropist helped turn Frederick's dream into reality.

Frederick's early life revolved around farming and animal husbandry. He split his time between school and herding cattle, which cost him valuable learning time. “In a typical week, I could only go to school two or three times,” he recalled.

Despite these challenges, he persevered through basic education. In his final year of junior high school (JHS), he stopped herding cattle to focus on exams. Funding his education was always difficult. With help from family and kind individuals, he completed high school.

At the University of Ghana, Frederick relied on support from chaplains and parish members for financial aid. His life changed when a senior recognized his potential and recommended him to Alhaji Agongo. This moment marked a turning point for Frederick.

“Since knowing Alhaji Agongo, he has paid my school fees,” Frederick explained. “I didn’t have to worry about burdens that would distract me.” His success at Yale Law School now symbolizes hope for rural youth across Ghana.

Alhaji Agongo has sponsored hundreds of children through various educational levels. He has also funded vocational training for women and single mothers as part of his commitment to equity in society.

“Frederick is an exceptional talent,” Alhaji Agongo said about supporting him. “Through that support, he will improve his family and society.”

For Frederick, Alhaji Agongo opened doors to new possibilities after completing law school in Ghana. He received offers from both Yale and Harvard but chose Yale for its smaller class sizes.

“My checks suggest we haven’t had a Ghanaian at Yale since 1987,” he noted proudly as the only African in his cohort.

Frederick broke a 38-year absence of Ghanaian representation at Yale’s LL.M program with constant support from Alhaji Agongo.

“The LL.M holds immense personal significance for me,” he stated about studying at Yale Law School. “It teaches us not just legal knowledge but also our responsibility to address societal challenges.”

Frederick views Alhaji Agongo as a genuine philanthropist despite their distant relationship. They have only spoken on the phone; they have never met face-to-face.

“Yet he constantly checks on me to ensure I am comfortable,” Frederick said about Alhaji Agongo’s kindness toward other students too.

For Frederick, his story shows that one’s background does not define their future: “One is not defined by their circumstances.”

He emphasized pushing oneself towards goals while seeking mentorship: “We need mentors who can guide us.”

Looking ahead, Frederick plans to return home while exploring further study opportunities.
His journey highlights perseverance and philanthropy's impact on individual lives and potentially the nation's future.