FirstBank webinars spotlight mentorship and mental health for women in banking
FirstBank Ghana has intensified efforts to promote women’s development within its workforce, organising a series of mentorship and wellbeing sessions as part of activities marking this year’s International Women’s Day.
The initiative, led by the FirstBank Women Network (FWN), brought together female staff across various departments of the bank for two virtual engagements designed to encourage professional growth, peer support and personal wellbeing. The sessions aligned with the 2026 global theme, “Give to Gain,” which underscores the importance of investing in others as a pathway to shared progress.
The first webinar focused on rethinking traditional mentorship structures within corporate institutions. Delivering a presentation on “Reverse Mentoring,” co-founder of BecauseSheCan, Otema Yirenkyi, urged organisations to embrace more inclusive knowledge-sharing models that allow younger professionals to contribute meaningfully to leadership conversations.
“Mentorship must evolve with the workplace. When organisations create safe spaces for knowledge sharing, both senior and younger professionals can learn from each other, and that exchange ultimately strengthens the institution,” she said.
She noted that reverse mentoring, which enables junior staff to share digital skills, fresh perspectives and innovative ideas with senior colleagues, was becoming increasingly relevant in modern workplaces, particularly within the banking sector.
The second session turned attention to personal wellbeing, with Dr Asomaniwaa Owusu-Ansah encouraging participants to prioritise self-care while navigating demanding professional and personal responsibilities. Speaking on the topic “Give Yourself Grace,” she highlighted the need for women to pay closer attention to their mental health and build resilience.
“Women often give so much of themselves to their work, families, and communities. It is equally important to extend that same kindness to yourself by prioritising your wellbeing, your growth, and your peace of mind,” she noted.
The discussions were further reinforced by the Chairperson of the FirstBank Women Network, Grace Isaac-Aryee, who called for stronger support systems among women within the organisation. She emphasised the role of collective encouragement in advancing women’s careers and strengthening workplace culture.
“Let us continue to support one another and celebrate each other’s achievements. When women become their sister’s keeper and help each other thrive, we create stronger workplaces and a better society. We can start here at the bank and extend that spirit everywhere we find ourselves,” she said.
The sessions provided a platform for reflection and dialogue, with participants engaging in conversations around mentorship, leadership and emotional well-being in the workplace.
FirstBank Ghana said the initiative forms part of its broader commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where women are empowered to grow, lead and contribute meaningfully to organisational success and national development.
