Build a network of support systems if you want to be an effective leader – Nana Essilfuah Tamakloe

The Director of Marketing and Corporate Relations at Absa Bank Ghana, Nana Essilfuah Tamakloe, has underscored the need for women in leadership to build a network of support systems if they are to be effective and successful in their roles.

Nana Tamakloe was speaking at a virtual summit organised by Touchpoint Magna Carta (TPMC) as part of activities to mark this year’s International Women’s Day.

She said having a good support system helps leaders through very difficult times.

“As a leader, what has kept me going in very difficult times are the support networks I have built around me. In the professional space, I have a go-to network for advice, guidance and solutions, which I fall on any time I need help professionally.”

“Outside my profession, my family support group is a safety net where I can go to and exhale from work pressure. These channels are critical for women in leadership especially as we strive to create a good balance,’’ he said.

Read: COVID-19: PUWU asks government to support affected women

Nana Tamakloe also noted that making strides as a woman in the corporate world required that one proves her value and merit.

“Roles within institutions are not handed over to you simply because you are a woman. It is based on merit and the value you bring to the table. You therefore need to constantly invest in your personal and career development not only for the next role but to ensure your relevance at all times,” she said.  


The summit

The TPMC Women in Leadership Summit (WILS) was to recognise and celebrate women who are playing challenging roles in their communities.

Other panelists who participated in the summit included the Director of Marketing and Corporate Relations at Absa Bank Ghana, Nana Essilfua Tamakloe, Group Legal Counsel at Stanbic Bank Ghana, Doreen Iliasu, CEO of Magna Carta Africa, Moliehi Molekoa and Relieving General Manager at Abosso Goldfields Limited, Catherine Kuupol Kuutor.

The IWD is a global day set aside to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity.

This year’s celebrations were held under the theme “Women in leadership: Achieving an equal future in a COVID-19 world.”