Samuel Attah-Mensah’s tribute to late Steve Ababio

There are few people whose presence leaves an everlasting impact on the lives of those they encounter. Steve Ababio, affectionately known as Iron Man, was one of those rare individuals.

His passing is a profound loss, not only to his family and close friends but also to the countless people whose lives he touched through his leadership, creativity, and unwavering spirit.

I first met Steve during our A’ Level days in Secondary School (Presec), but it was at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) that our friendship was truly forged. As young, ambitious students, we found our common ground in AIESEC, an organization that shaped our leadership skills and prepared us for the larger world. Steve was ahead of the curve—his mastery of the English language, sharp intellect, and enviable leadership qualities set him apart.

We took on various AIESEC projects together, travelling to university campuses, engaging in sponsorship drives, and organizing initiatives that challenged the status quo. We even found ourselves at the forefront of student demonstrations, driven by a shared passion for advocacy and change. Those were defining moments, where Steve’s ability to strategize and lead became evident.

Beyond AIESEC, our entrepreneurial spirits led us to establish our first company, Corporate Impact, together with Kojo Lokko and Bob Owusu even before we graduated. This venture took us to different regions across Ghana, working on impactful projects, from a Ghana Water PR campaign in Tamale to borehole initiatives in Obuasi. At every turn, Steve was not just a business partner—he was a dependable friend and an inspiration.

Steve’s impact on my career in media was profound. When I transitioned from Joy FM to Citi FM, he provided invaluable guidance and support, always pushing me to reach greater heights. He had a keen understanding of communication and public engagement, making his advice indispensable.

When I launched *The Globe*, a newspaper that ultimately didn’t succeed, Steve never hesitated to contribute. He took up a column, showing his commitment to the vision I had set out to achieve. His belief in people’s dreams was one of his greatest strengths. Even when things didn’t go as planned, he was there, offering words of encouragement and lessons in resilience.

A Passion for Photography and a Legacy Preserved

In the last two decades of his life, Steve found his true artistic calling in photography. His ability to capture the essence of life through his lens was remarkable. He didn’t just take pictures—he told stories, evoked emotions, and preserved history in ways that only a master photographer could.

His final major project, ‘Chasing Waterfalls’, was a culmination of his love for nature, adventure, and storytelling. It was a privilege to support him in this endeavour, and seeing the finished work was a testament to his dedication and brilliance. Steve approached photography with the same passion he applied to every aspect of his life—always striving for excellence, always pushing boundaries.

Steve Ababio was more than a friend; he was a brother, a mentor, and a beacon of inspiration. His legacy is one of boldness, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of greatness. He lived his life fully, impacting many along the way, and though he is no longer with us in person, his influence will never fade.

The KNUST Alumni and the AIESEC community have lost one of its finest sons, but we take solace in knowing that his life was well-lived. Steve, your journey on this earth was extraordinary, and your legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Rest well my brother, Rest Well Kweiii, Rest Well Nyaa King.