'Don’t be ashamed of the work that feeds you — passion can wait' - McDan urges youth

Ghanaian business mogul Dr Daniel McKorley, the CEO of McDan Group, has shared some hard-hitting advice about work, survival, and the pressure to “love your job.” And as usual, he didn’t mince words.

In a post that’s making waves on social media, Dr McKorley — popularly known as McDan — reminded young people that there’s absolutely no shame in doing honest work, no matter how “small” it seems.

“Never be ashamed of the work that puts food on your table,” he wrote. “Those you try to impress won’t feed you when you’re hungry. That is why a ‘small’ salary is still better than begging, waiting, and hoping for someone to give you free money.”

Passion Is Good — But Bills Are Real

McDan’s message hits at a growing sentiment among Gen Z and millennial professionals who feel lost or frustrated because they haven’t landed their “dream job.”

According to him, many young people have been conditioned to “chase passion, not paychecks” — but that advice, while idealistic, doesn’t always hold up in the real world.

“Sometimes, it’s not about passion,” he noted. “It’s about survival. It’s about gaining experience, building skills, and ensuring financial stability first, so that later, you have the freedom to chase bigger goals.”

In simple terms: passion is great, but it doesn’t pay ECG bills or fill your fridge.

Do What’s Necessary — For Now

Dr McKorley emphasised that you don’t have to love what you do right now — and that’s perfectly fine. What matters is that you’re doing what’s necessary to move forward.

He explained that the process of working, earning, and learning forms the foundation for future success — even if the current job isn’t glamorous or ideal.

“You don’t have to love what you do right now,” he said. “But you do have to do what’s necessary. And as long as you keep moving forward, the bigger opportunities — the ones that align with your passion — will come.”

Respect The Hustle

McDan’s post also doubles as a reality check for anyone who feels embarrassed by their job or income level. Whether you’re a cleaner, driver, junior staffer, or entry-level employee, your work has value, and you should take pride in it.

“All that matters is that you know and understand the value of your work and you’re proud of the effort you put in, regardless of the job’s status or perception,” he added. “Because at the end of the day, people will always talk, but they will never pay your bills.”

The Bigger Picture

As someone who built a business empire from scratch, Dr McKorley’s words carry weight. His message is a reminder that growth takes time, and that humility, consistency, and resilience matter more than appearances.

In a world obsessed with quick success and social media validation, McDan’s message feels like a refreshing slap of truth — a reminder that “small beginnings” still count, and that doing honest work is never beneath anyone.

Who Is Dr Daniel McKorley?

Dr Daniel McKorley, widely known as McDan, is a celebrated Ghanaian entrepreneur and philanthropist. He is the Founder and CEO of the McDan Group of Companies, with business interests spanning logistics, aviation, oil and gas, and salt production.

From humble beginnings, McDan built his multimillion-dollar enterprise through grit, determination, and an unrelenting belief in hard work — the very values reflected in his latest message to Ghana’s youth.