Beatrice:  Dr. Dickson, could you start by exploring the influences that shaped your journey? What early experiences or influences in your life shaped your dreams and aspirations?

Dr. Dickson: Thank you for this interview, Beatrice. I haven’t participated in an interview like this for a long time. Most of my past interviews have focused on professional subjects such as national and cyber security.

You asked an important question about the influences in my life that have shaped my dreams. I would attribute much of my inspiration to one person: my uncle, Justice S.S. Appiah. He was a lawyer, and when I was 12, he noticed that I had a knack for debates and discussions. Even at a young age, I enjoyed engaging in public discourse. At that time, he was still a law student, but our interactions had a significant impact on me. He once told me that I should become a lawyer, and even though I didn’t fully understand what that meant, I felt drawn to it. Our relationship went beyond just being uncle and nephew; we shared a great bond, which profoundly influenced my worldview and my sense of self.

Beatrice: Dr. Dickson how did you find your purpose? Were you influenced by your uncle, as you mentioned?

Dr. Dickson: Yes. When my uncle set me on the path of seeing myself as a lawyer, I realized that lawyers work within the public sphere. They might serve private clients, but their work significantly impacts public engagement. Along the way, I also charted my path, influenced by other people and experiences.

I met individuals who contributed not only to their local communities but also to other countries. Through my numerous Job experiences, I came to the realization that, Ghana has benefited from tremendous training provided by other nations. It was time, for us to give back that training and expertise to the world.

Another significant influence was a statement by our own , Dr. Osagyefo Kwame Nkrumah, who said that our independence is meaningless unless it is linked to the liberation of Africa. We have a responsibility to support other nations and impact our broader community. That philosophy has guided my work and outlook.

Beatrice: That’s a wonderful insight, Dr. Dickson. Every journey has its hurdles. Can you recall a moment when you faced a significant challenge, and how did you overcome it?

Dr. Dickson: Oh, yes. Life would be impossible without both valleys and peaks. In the early 90s, around 1991 or 1992, I applied to the University of Ghana to study law. Ever since I was four years old, all I wanted was to become a lawyer. In school, everyone called me a lawyer. However, despite choosing law as my first course, I didn’t get accepted. This shattered my heart and dream, and I felt like a real failure. My spirit was crushed.

I went back to my uncle and shared my disappointment. He encouraged me, saying, “Don’t give up in life. If you don’t hit your target in one try, shoot your arrow again and again until you make it. The door doesn’t open with just one knock. Sometimes you have to be persistent.”

I completed my four-year program in 1996, a year later than expected. Later, I switched from accounting to law and applied again. This time, I was successful. From this experience, I learned to overcome limitations and persevere to achieve success

Beatrice: Success can mean different things to different people. How do you define success, and has your definition changed over time?

Dr. Dickson: No, it hasn’t changed. For me, success is simply achieving whatever you set out for yourself. Whether it’s being a wine tapper or any other profession, if you become the best at it, you will earn your place among the greatest. No profession or mission is more important than the one you choose for yourself. Whatever you do, do it to the best of your ability. Your success will come from making a significant mark in your chosen field.

Beatrice: You often mentioned your uncle as a source of inspiration for your career path. Let’s discuss the importance of mentorship. What role has mentorship played in your career, and how do you approach mentoring others?

Dr. Dickson: Mentorship is crucial. I sympathize with those who undertake long journeys without seeking guidance from those who have gone before them. My uncle was my mentor. In 2000, I won a moot court competition at the Supreme Court. Before the final round, I called my uncle, who was a judge, to discuss my arguments. His guidance was invaluable.

Inspired by my own experience, I established mentorship programs, particularly in international cyber law and policy. I train law students, fellow lawyers, and run the largest cyber mentorship program in Ghana. Mentorship helps others grasp complex subjects and navigate their careers effectively.

Beatrice: What are some core values that guide your decisions and actions, both professionally and personally?

Dr. Dickson: Fairness is essential. The Bible says to do unto others as you would have them do unto you. I believe in doing good, being fair, and fighting for what is right. These values give me confidence and a sense of justice. As a lawyer, I fight for others and put their interests above my own. Being fair-minded anchors me and inspires me to do what is right.

Beatrice: How do you balance your professional and personal life, considering you are a very busy person?

Dr. Dickson: It’s tough, but I prioritize and delegate. I make time for what’s important and seek help from others. For example, I set up mentorship programs where law students can gain experience. This not only helps them but also allows me to manage my time better. Balancing involves setting goals, prioritizing, and getting support.

Beatrice:  How do you stay motivated?

Dr. Dickson: Persistence is key. In 2021, we organized CyberX Africa, one of the largest cyber incident response conferences in Africa. Despite the challenges, we persisted. If something doesn’t work out, continue to do it. Don’t lose faith. The world is built on success because people believed in their goals and persisted.

Beatrice: What holds your life together? What keeps you grounded?

Dr. Dickson:  Several factors contribute to my well-being. Firstly, my wonderful family, especially my wife, who keeps everything in balance. Secondly, my faith and passion for God’s Word, which provide me with tremendous energy and inner joy. Additionally, adopting a relaxed approach to life and embracing the inevitability of failures helps me stay grounded. I believe that challenges are an integral part of success, and overcoming them is essential for growth.

Beatrice:  What would you like your legacy to be? How would you like to be remembered in the future?

Dr. Dickson:  I would like to be remembered as a patriot who loved his country and contributed to its advancement. I want to be seen as someone who helped others achieve their best and made a significant impact on the advancement of Africa.

Beatrice: Dr. Dickson, thank you for sharing your journey with us. Your story is truly inspiring and will undoubtedly resonate with many of our readers.

Dr. Dickson:  Thank you very much for having me. It’s been a great pleasure talking with you.