Empowering Women for Excellence and Impact: Dr. Afua Asabea Asare urges courage and innovation to break barriers

In the quest to address gender inequality, women are encouraged to embody courage and innovation within their respective fields.

Dr. Afua Asabea Asare, CEO of the Ghana Export Promotion Authority, noted that women can thrive in their organisations and beyond by setting high standards and continuously pushing boundaries. She advocates for a collaborative mindset among women in business, viewing each other as partners rather than competitors, to foster a culture of excellence that empowers not only themselves but also the younger generation.

Dr. Afua Asabea Asare made these remarks at the 'A Lady With a Dream Conference,' themed "Unlocking Possibilities: Empowering Women for Excellence and Impact" organized by the UMI Foundation on Saturday, March 23rd, 2024, in Accra. The UMI Foundation, in collaboration with Beyond the Return and Year of Return initiatives, aims to equip women with the necessary tools and knowledge to achieve professional aspirations while promoting gender equality and celebrating women's achievements.

Founder of the UMI Foundation, Ms. Marina Lamptey, stresses the importance of women supporting each other to thrive. The conference, 'A Lady With a Dream,' is a culmination of Ms. Lamptey's vision over the past decade, dedicated to honoring her late father, David Lamptey, for his philanthropic endeavors.

Mrs. Ivy Heward-Mills, Director of the Centre for International Education and Collaboration at the University of Professional Studies (UPSA), lauds the conference for providing a platform for young women to learn from accomplished individuals. She emphasizes the significance of constant self-improvement, urging young women to add value to themselves continually.

The conference convened over 600 women, including prominent figures such as Hon.Mayor Elizabeth Sackey, Ambassador. Erieka Bennett, Ms.Yaa Owusu-Baah, Ms. Abena Sekyiama, Madam Abena Duffuor, Ms. Seyram Amakpah-Azasu, Ms. Boatema Barfour-Awuah, Ms. Annabelle Mckenzie, Mrs. Ivy Heward-Mills, Madam Colette Amaeshi, Madam Dela Koba Abah, Madam Estelle Asare, Madam Abokuma Ellis, and Madam Jannice Tagoe. Discussions centered on six priority sectors, providing guidance, inspiration, and practical strategies for women to excel in professional services, creative industries, beauty and fashion, entrepreneurship, technology and innovation, and agriculture, food, and agribusiness.

Through collective efforts and empowerment initiatives like this conference, women are poised to overcome barriers and make significant strides in their respective fields, contributing to a more inclusive and equitable society.