Young women from Ho and nearby communities in the Volta Region have been encouraged to draw inspiration from accomplished role models who have made significant contributions to their families, communities, and the nation.

The occasion was the Ghana Grows Policy Roundtable, which convened 120 young women alongside numerous online participants. The primary objective was to equip them with the necessary skills to effectively engage with policymakers both nationally and locally.

Organized as part of the Ghana Grows Programme, a collaborative effort between the Mastercard Foundation and the Springboard Road Show Foundation, this initiative focuses on empowering young people, especially women and those with disabilities, to explore career paths in agriculture, agribusiness, and technical and vocational fields.

Comfort Ocran, Executive Director of the Springboard Road Show Foundation, emphasised the importance of community leaders, educators, and students joining forces to inspire young people, urging them to adopt a gender-responsive approach to overcoming barriers.

She highlighted the various dignified and fulfilling job opportunities available within the agricultural and technical sectors through the Ghana Grows Programme.

The discussions centered on commitments 1 and 2 of Chapter 5 of the National Gender Policy, specifically on addressing women's empowerment, livelihoods, rights, and access to justice.

Speakers like Dr Hilary Gbedemah, a lawyer, shared personal anecdotes and lessons learned, motivating Ghana's youth to strive for greatness despite inevitable obstacles.

Stressing the significance of psycho-social support, Gbedemah encouraged the youth to remain resilient and optimistic, regardless of their circumstances.

Dr. Angela Dwamena-Aboagye, Executive Director of the Ark Foundation, shed light on her organization's efforts to provide support and resources to young women nationwide, particularly those who have experienced abuse.

She posed a critical question regarding the restoration of abused young women and called for collective action to address this pressing issue.

By arming these young women with the tools for policy engagement, the Ghana Grows Policy Roundtable aims to dismantle barriers hindering female participation while raising awareness of available opportunities for them to realize their full potential.

The event left a lasting impression on participants, igniting a sense of purpose and determination to actively contribute to policy shaping and drive positive change within their communities and beyond.

Reflecting on her experience, a participant, Kekeli Adzo expressed newfound confidence in advocating for herself and her community to access opportunities in the agriculture and technical sectors.

The Springboard Road Show Foundation extended an invitation to young people interested in exploring opportunities within agriculture, agribusiness, and technical fields through the Ghana Grows Programme, providing free assistance via its call Centre.