Deliberate programs essential to promote more women leaders in the corporate hierarchy - Koo Govender

The pioneering female CEO of Publicis Groupe Africa, Koo Govender, has championed deliberate programs and policies aimed at promoting more women leaders in the corporate sphere of emerging economies.

According to her, this is crucial to enhance gender balance, empower women, inspire, and advance women's leadership in the corporate world.

Speaking at the inaugural of 'The Leading Woman Forum' held in Accra on May 17, 2024, Ms. Koo Govender advocated for uplifting working women across all levels of the corporate hierarchy.

She shared insights from her personal journey of overcoming grief to achieve success while rising through the corporate ranks despite challenges and setbacks.

"During a period when I lost my husband on my corporate journey, my whole life was turned upside down. But I had to persevere despite this major setback to achieve my goals as a corporate leader. One of the things I learned during that time was that the support of my peers in leadership was what kept me going," Koo Govender said.

"Despite the challenges, it is crucial to cultivate a culture of learning, vulnerability, and mutual support where women can confidently pursue their career aspirations," she added.

The CEO of Publicis Groupe Africa joined other notable women from diverse backgrounds to share their experiences and insights during a panel session aimed at creating a sense of belonging and encouragement, motivating women to embrace opportunities for growth and success in their careers.

Panelists included Regina Honu, Founder of Soronko Academy; Chief Financial Officer of MTN Ghana, Antoinette Kwofie; Vivian Kai Lokko, Head of News at Citi FM/Citi TV; and Stephany Boateng, International Development Expert on Human Rights.

Antoinette Kwofie, MTN Ghana’s Chief Financial Officer, during the discussions said, “With almost 30 years working across various industries, we still lack women leaders at the helm of affairs and therefore must be deliberate in uplifting women to the leadership table.”

Regina Honu, on her part, urged the adoption of technology and STEM programs to reach and unearth emerging talents to promote women's leadership in the corporate hierarchy.

Head of News at Citi FM/Citi TV, Vivian Kai Lokko, shared that throughout her personal and career journey, her parents and mentors had instilled a level of confidence in her to drive change across the platforms she has served.

Stephany Boateng also mentioned how her uncle, for instance, has been instrumental in providing her with the needed educational guidance to thrive in her career. She also called on women not to shy away from leadership roles, urging them to prepare themselves at all times to take advantage of opportunities once they arrive.

“Women must not shy away from leadership opportunities; in fact, they must put themselves forward and take advantage in order to pave the way for others to follow,” Boateng said.

The panel discussion featured distinguished women leaders from various sectors, including Technology, Finance, Media, and Human Rights. This engaging 45-minute session focused on the panelists' journeys to success, the challenges they have faced and continue to face, and their personal and professional achievements.

Central to the discussion was the key efforts made to support and uplift other women in their pursuit of leadership roles within the corporate world.

The maiden edition of 'The Leading Woman Forum' was organized by Publicis West Africa, in collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry France, Ghana, and held on the theme; "Inspiring Women's Leadership in the Workplace."

The event provided a platform to celebrate, inspire, and promote women's leadership in the corporate sphere, aiming to empower and uplift working women across all levels of the corporate hierarchy.



MA/NOQ