Asha Bello, the founder of Cheeky Monkey Club, embarked on her entrepreneurial journey in 2017 after struggling to find suitable places in Accra, Ghana, to engage her son in social interactions with other children. Motivated by this experience, she established Cheeky Monkey Club, a multi-activity center catering to children aged 3 to 12. The club offers a variety of programs including French activities, year-round swim lessons, holiday camps, coding classes, Saturday camps, and STEM activities. Emphasizing the importance of children becoming creators rather than just consumers, Asha ensures that the club fosters creativity and self-esteem among its young participants.
Operating from Monday to Saturday, the club integrates various activities into its schedule, allowing children to participate according to their interests. To streamline operations and reduce administrative costs, Asha and her husband decided to run the club from the premises of their residence. This strategic decision also facilitates the management of the facility and enhances safety measures for the children. Modern surveillance systems monitor the premises, while staff are provided with walkie-talkies for communication and an office phone is available for emergencies.
Despite the challenges posed by competition from schools, Asha remains committed to providing a unique and enriching experience for children at Cheeky Monkey Club. As a female entrepreneur in Ghana, she confronts stereotypes suggesting that women in business are financially supported by men, emphasizing that many women, including herself, fund their ventures independently.
The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges for the club, leading to the temporary closure and subsequent layoffs of staff. Asha navigated this crisis by seeking guidance from relevant authorities and accessing government grants to sustain the business. Despite operating at reduced capacity upon reopening, the club remained resilient, utilizing financial assistance to cover expenses and ensure continuity of services.
Looking ahead, Asha envisions securing a permanent location for Cheeky Monkey Club, moving away from rented premises to establish a more stable foundation for the business’s future growth and sustainability. Through her dedication and perseverance, Asha continues to empower children through enriching experiences at Cheeky Monkey Club, contributing to their holistic development and well-being.
