UGBS BHJCR Hosts Second Edition of Women Empowerment Summit
On 6th February 2025, female leaders of the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS) Business House Junior Common Room (BHJCR) in collaboration with Polygynax organised the second edition of the Women Empowerment Summit. The event, themed “Women Rising: Defining Leadership & Shaping Careers” took place at the R.S. Amegashie Auditorium.
Ms. Kimberly Annor-Boateng, Vice President of BHJCR, presented on ‘Empowering Women, Empowering Humanity,’ sharing that women's empowerment is a driving force for social and economic progress. Ms. Annor-Boateng called for action in education, entrepreneurship, and inclusive workplaces.
Mr. Paa Kwesi Folson, Executive Director of Revolead Solutions Limited, indicated that women’s empowerment should go beyond mere discussion and become a lifestyle. He stated that women should lead confidently without being questioned about their capabilities and men should not feel threatened when women bring value but rather support their growth. Mr. Folson noted that leadership requires intentionality, value creation, and continuous learning and encouraged women to develop a vision alongside their goals.
Ms. Roberta Awinmah Ayalingo, Founder of Wibexly Limited and LetsElevateHer, encouraged women to excel in their fields to earn respect and be taken seriously. She emphasised that they should seek mentors who understand their path. Ms. Ayalingo urged them to push past their fears with intention and embrace self-awareness as a tool for personal and professional growth.
Ms. Emefa Apawu, JoyNews Editor and Anchor, reminded participants that leadership is not about recognition but impact. She urged women striving for positions in male-dominated fields to let their work speak for them, acknowledging that opportunities are never handed out freely, as men also compete for them. Ms. Apawu advised students to be self-driven, passionate, and intentional while staying true to themselves.
Ms. Dina Apkalu-Benson, Management and Start-up Consultant raised that aside from societal stereotypes limiting women, self-doubt is the real barrier. She noted that cultural upbringing often discourages women from aspiring to greater heights, yet there are no limitations women cannot conquer. Ms. Apkalu-Benson encouraged women to be daring yet well-mannered and ensure they receive due credit for their contributions. She also indicated that women should be given equitable opportunities based on merit rather than gender.
In a career session led by Mr. Nicholas Oyimah, Youth Career Advocate advised students to be curious about career opportunities, committed to learning, and proactive in seeking internships, mentorships, and networking opportunities. He challenged the idea that personal branding is only for celebrities and advised that students should also create and sustain a strong personal brand as it is essential for career growth. Mr. Oyimah urged them not to wait for opportunities but to create them by becoming so skilled and valuable that they cannot be ignored.
Dr. Nita Asamoa-Manu, Obstetrician-Gynecologist at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital gave a presentation on vaginal anatomy and physiology, common vaginal diseases and infections, and essential vaginal care practices. She urged women to maintain good vaginal health.
In Ms. Danita Akosua Adomaah Yeboah, popularly known as Afronita, CEO of Afrostar Kids Academy, urged students to discover their purpose and live by it. She also shared that they should be disciplined in working toward their goals. Mr. Caleb Shalley noted that anyone who wants to lead must first commit to learning. He urged participants to be valuable, resilient, and lifelong learners. Mr. Shalley also emphasised that parents should create environments that nurture the growth and potential of their children.
Mr. Jeffery Adu Yeboah, Vice President, University of Ghana Student Representative Council cautioned students against engaging in activities that could disrupt their academics. He advised them to manage their time effectively by prioritizing urgent tasks while ensuring their academic commitments remain intact.
Mr. Richmond Kofi Offei, Personal Development Coach encouraged participants to remain focused on their long-term goals and take decisive steps toward achieving them without delay.
story by Princella Elorm Nuhoho, UGBS Marcomms
Edited by Doris Koffi, UGBS Marcomms