Empower women at early stage of socialisation, not later in life — Mrs Baffoe-Bonnie

The Director-General of the Ghana Prisons Service, Patience Baffoe-Bonnie, has underscored the need to empower young women at the early stage of socialisation, rather than being postponed until later in life.

Speaking at a dialogue organised for successful women to share their stories with younger girls, she said doing this would foster a new generation of competent, confident women ready to make their mark in any field.

She recounted her personal experiences growing up as the eldest daughter, saying that in her family, she felt the weight of responsibility, which her father encouraged her to embrace.

She added that that early foundation instilled in her a powerful sense of capability and initiative, adding that there were times where she had to slaughter a fowl when the person to do it was not available.

“Women have the power to do anything, but it shouldn’t be later in life. It must begin at the foundation,” she said.

Event

The dialogue was organised by 40 Roses Foundation, a Ghanaian non-governmental organisation that focuses on empowering and mentoring young women.

It was on the theme: Give to gain: Rights, justice, action for all women and girls.

In the traditionally male-dominated security sector, Mrs Baffoe-Bonnie said she had worked to ensure that women had equal opportunities.

In line with that, she told the attendees that she had fostered mentorship programmes and created spaces for women to relate freely and support one another in realising their potential.

She encouraged women to embrace challenges, including giving birth and pursuing their career ambitions at the same time.

Mentorship

Charlotte Osei, the first female Electoral Commissioner  Ghstressed the importance of empowerment and mentorship for aspiring leaders, particularly women.

She encouraged accomplished women to create opportunities to make it easier for those coming after them, adding: “You should be able to tell them that there is room”.

She cautioned that mentors were not therapists or personal assistants.

When opportunities arise through mentorship, Mrs Osei advised the audience to embrace such mentorship opportunities with respect.

This respect, Mrs Osei said, fostered strong, professional relationships that could lead to mutual growth.

Additionally, she stressed the importance of building a peer circle.

“Cultivate your networks and seek mentors who can guide them,” she said.

Rationale

The Founder and Executive Director of 40 Roses Foundation, Penelope M. Jones-Mensah, said the platform sought to bring together intimate and carefully curated groups of distinguished African women leaders alongside emerging young professionals.

“We are creating a space where experience meets aspiration and leadership becomes a shared journey across generations,” she said.