Absa Ghana’s Inspire Me Conference 2023 has concluded, leaving a lasting impact on women entrepreneurs across the African continent. This annual gathering, a cornerstone of Absa’s commitment to supporting women in business, brought together a diverse and impressive array of individuals
Among the notable personalities who graced the conference were Alhassan Andani, former CEO of Stanbic Bank; Dokua Asiamah-Adjei, Deputy Trade Minister; Yofi Grant, CEO of the Ghana Investment Promotion Center (GIPC); David Ofosu Dorte, Managing Partner at AB & David Law; Dr Afua Asabea Asare, CEO of the Ghana Export Promotion Authority; and Jemima Oware, Registrar of Companies.
The Inspire Me Conference welcomed a prestigious lineup of accomplished entrepreneurs, government representatives, regulators, and Absa senior executives, including Absa Ghana Board Chair Frances Adu-Mante. The event featured five enlightening panel discussions, all centred around ‘Empowering Women’s Economic Growth Together.’
The conference’s focal point was Ibukun Awosika, Chair of The Chair Centre Group, a highly accomplished Nigerian business entrepreneur. Her remarkable journey and achievements in the business world made her the ideal keynote speaker, inspiring all who attended.
For years, Absa Ghana has recognized the immense potential of women-led businesses. It has played a vital role in providing them with affordable financial solutions and essential resources for their growth. In collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation, the bank introduced an SME Loan, offering up to GH¢1 million (equivalent to 13 million Kenyan shillings) at a favourable interest rate of 10%, without collateral. This initiative underscores Absa Ghana’s unwavering dedication to levelling the playing field for women entrepreneurs.
Abena Osei-Poku, the Managing Director of Absa Bank Ghana, emphasized the pivotal role of women entrepreneurs in driving economic growth, fostering innovation, creating employment opportunities, and championing social change. She aptly stated, “Women entrepreneurs are the engines of progress, and their impact is felt far and wide.”
Mastercard Foundation, AngloGold Ashanti, Vodafone Business, International Trade Centre, and SheTrades played pivotal roles as official partners for the conference. Their support transformed the Inspire Me Conference 2023 into a dynamic platform for networking, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration, ultimately empowering women entrepreneurs to thrive in their respective industries.
As we reflect on the success of the Inspire Me Conference 2023, it becomes evident that this event has left an indelible mark on the journey of women entrepreneurs in Africa. Jennifer Githinji, AIS director, summed it up perfectly, saying, “The Inspire Me Conference serves as a beacon of hope and opportunity for women entrepreneurs. It’s a testament to the transformative power of financial support and shared knowledge in driving economic progress.”
The conference not only celebrated the achievements of women in business but also equipped them with the tools and connections needed to continue their remarkable journeys. As we eagerly anticipate future editions, it is abundantly clear that the Inspire Me Conference will remain a cornerstone of empowerment, innovation, and growth for women entrepreneurs across the continent.