Maisy Ama Baer, final year student of Roman Ridge School in Accra is the double Award winner of Zonta International District 18 and Zonta International 2022 prizes for Young Women in Public Affairs.

She is one of 10 Zonta International’s global Award winners for this year.

Both Awards, worth a total cash sum of $6,500 was presented to her by Madam Vivienne Idun-Ogde, President of Zonta Club of Accra at the School’s Speech and Prize Giving Day ceremony held in Accra in June.

In a short speech, Idun-Ogde explained that the goal of Zonta’s Award programme is to encourage young women all over the world to participate in public affairs by recognising a candidate’s commitment to the volunteer sector. 

Candidates are also to show an evidence of leadership through achievements and dedication to empowering women worldwide through service and advocacy.

Miss Baer shared her excitement for receiving the Zonta Global Award and even more so the only winner from Ghana and the sub Region, saying, "This is a huge boost and encouragement to me to continue with the community contributions I have been part of for some years.” 

She intends to use part of her prize money towards her education as well as fund various interests to broaden her skill set.

As to how she got into the Zonta International programme for young women, she said in applying to enter the programme, she was given the chance to express her personal goals, speak about her leadership positions, her roles in community service and her involvement in international events.

Apart from being the Head Girl at her school, Miss Baer was involved in various extra-curricular activities including being the Editor-in-chief of her school’s publication, the Blueprint.

Her previous community service involved raising nearly GH¢100,000 to refurbish the kindergarten washroom at the Dzorwulu A and B Primary School.