When Yvonne Kumoji-Darko walked into her first Rotary Club of Accra – South meeting in July 2004, she wasn’t just taking a step into a room. Instead, she was embarking on a journey of service and leadership that would span decades, cross borders, impact lives, and break glass ceilings. The only problem was, she didn’t know that yet.
Before her induction, she was already a woman of distinction, successfully navigating the world of real estate development. Today, Yvonne is recognized as one of the powerhouses in Property Development, boasting an extensive portfolio of 35 years leasing and constructing residential apartments and luxury homes.
Beyond her professional success, she has been a constant force of change within the Rotary Club, holding impressive titles such as Fundraising Chair, Treasurer, Sarge-at-arms, Director, Membership Chair, and Foundation Chair. Yvonne’s innate knack for leadership propelled her to become the Club’s President in 2011-12. This period marked a milestone as the Club achieved a 100% Paul Harris Fellow (PHF) status during her tenure.
Yet, she was just getting started. Yvonne made history in the Rotary year 2020/2021 by becoming the first female District Governor, D9102, from Ghana in over six decades. During her year of governorship, she, along with her team, smashed long-standing District records for membership, new club development, and foundation giving, among many others. As if that wasn’t enough, she’s currently serving as an Assistant Rotary Regional Foundation Coordinator for Region 27, District Membership Chair, and District Trainer D9104. She holds a seat on the Rotary International Membership Committee; her top-most position yet.
Her devotion to service extends beyond her home soil. She’s been a valuable resource person for District Assemblies across Ghana, Togo, Benin, Niger, Liberia, and Zone 25 (USA). She’s also championed significant initiatives such as the Walk for Rotary programme.
Despite her lengthy list of accomplishments and positions, Yvonne has never lost sight of the core Rotary principle – Service Above Self. She’s a committed contributor to The Rotary Foundation, achieving commendable status as a Paul Harris Society Member, Benefactor, Major Donor Level 4, and an Arch Klumph Society Member. She has been honored to receive the: Distinguished Service Award from the Directors of the Rotary Foundation during the Marrakech Institute in 2014, Meritorious Service Award from the Trustees of the Rotary Foundation during the Mombasa Institute in 2015.
Outside her Rotary life, Yvonne is a beacon of philanthropy. As a co-founder of The Hope for Kids Club, she leverages the power of education to uplift needy communities. As a lover of books, animals (especially chihuahuas), and a challenging game of Scrabble, she never forgets to nourish her personal interests amidst her packed schedule of service.
Yvonne, with her unwavering dedication, resilient spirit, and undeniable impact, truly embodies the essence of what it means to be a Rotarian. Here’s to Yvonne – an inspiring figure, a force for change, and a true servant leader!
