BTA2023 Renowned Ghanaian businessman and Executive Chairman of the McDan Group, Daniel McKorley, has revealed that his fear of financial responsibilities delayed his decision to marry.
Speaking at the 2025 edition of PCH Hangouts at the ICGC The New Wine Temple in East Legon, McDan shared how growing up around financial conflicts in relationships made the idea of marriage intimidating.
“I couldn’t marry early because I was afraid of chop money,” he admitted. “I grew up in an environment where you could see a man physically abusing a woman because of chop money, and you could see a woman verbally abusing a man because of chop money. So, the institution of marriage was scary for me.”
Balancing Ambition and Relationships
McDan also revealed how his relentless focus on building his business strained his personal relationships. He recalled losing an ex-girlfriend, Dorothy, because he struggled to make time for her.
“She left me in the book because I couldn’t make enough time. I was always the first to work and the last to leave. Anytime I visited, we’d be having a conversation, and I’d be sleeping,” he shared.
From Humble Beginnings to Success
Despite these challenges, McDan’s dedication eventually paid off. He reflected on a defining moment when, despite having $1 million in his account, he still drove a worn-out Fiat Ritmo that constantly broke down.
“When I made my first million dollars, I was driving a Fiat Ritmo. I had a million dollars in my account, but the car I drove would short diesel every two kilometres. But still, I didn’t see that I had enough,” he recalled.
Inspiring the Next Generation
McDan’s story was part of the “Big Dreams” session, themed “From Vision to Reality: Turning Business Ideas into Action,” where he encouraged young entrepreneurs to stay committed despite financial pressures and societal expectations.
His message was clear—success requires sacrifice, perseverance, and the courage to face personal and financial fears.
