Ghana is stepping up efforts to close the gender gap and accelerate progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equality).

The 2025 Ghana Women’s Awards held in Accra brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and gender advocates to celebrate women whose contributions are redefining leadership and impact in their respective fields.

More than 20 remarkable women were recognised for their achievements in governance, education, entrepreneurship, health, and community development, all standing as proof that women are not just participating in national progress but leading it.

Among them was the Director-General of the Ghana Prison Service, Patience Bonnie, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award for her distinguished service and commitment to reforming the country’s correctional system.

Speaking to the media, she urged young girls to dream big, take up leadership roles, and believe in their power to shape the future.

“I have been able to make it and I know that every young lady is equally capable. We should not enjoy the pity party from the men because the same thing you are enjoying will be used against you when it comes to your evaluation. And so just focus and deliver”

Her message drew a standing ovation from the audience, many of whom described her as a symbol of perseverance and integrity in public service.

The night also spotlighted innovation in education. Fuseina Fuseini, recipient of the 2025 Best Female Teacher Award, used the platform to unveil an initiative aimed at transforming early childhood education in underserved areas.

“So I came up with this initiative called the kindergarten classroom rebranding initiative just to support deprived communities. I am doing this with the support I am getting from family and friends. It is a new policy in Ghana Education Service, Ministry of Education in collaboration with UNICEF.”

Her announcement was met with widespread applause, with education stakeholders commending her proactive approach to addressing inequality in access to quality basic education.

Organisers of the event said the awards are not just a celebration, but a call to action to invest more intentionally in women’s leadership, mentorship, and entrepreneurship. They emphasised that achieving gender equality will require stronger collaboration between government, the private sector, and civil society.

In all, 24 outstanding women were honoured at the 2025 Ghana Women’s Awards for their impact, leadership, and unwavering commitment to national development.