GCAO Women empowerment involves bringing to light on their social, economic, and political, encouraging, and supporting their full participation in enhancing their overall well-being. This empowerment initiative strives to address and overcome diverse challenges faced by Ghanaian women, including gender-based discrimination, limited access to education and healthcare, unequal economic opportunities, and cultural norms restricting their roles.
On October 21, 2023, GCAO hosted its 2nd annual Women’s Empowerment conference at Wesley Hall, 69 Milvan Dr, North York, Ontario, with 96 attendees. The conference aimed to continue empowering women to realize their full potential, targeting those aged 16 and above. Admission was free, and guests were encouraged to dress in traditional Ghanaian attire, a request they gladly fulfilled.
Mrs. Diana Plummer, formerly known as “MC Dee” or Diana Dickson, served as the Master of Ceremony, while Ms. Maud Tutu, Leader of the GCAO Women’s Wing, welcomed guests and initiated the event with her remarks. Psychotherapist Ms. Silvia Olivas commenced the conference with a relaxing breathing exercise, followed by Ms. Marilyn Raphael, VP of Business and Governance at TD, who shared her journey through entrepreneurship and politics. Financial expert Ms. Porcia Boateng discussed life-changing financial decisions and emphasized the importance of financial stability for women. Keynote speaker Ms. Sylvia Bawa, Associate Professor of Sociology at York University, addressed the need to speak up for oneself, advocated for mental freedom, self-belief, pride in one’s identity, and accountability.
Following the speeches, guests enjoyed a buffet-style dinner catered by celebrity chef Chef Loso from Toronto. The menu featured delicious dishes such as Jollof, steamed salmon, various chicken options, waakye, steamed rice, a vegetable medley, salad, dinner rolls, and desserts like cheesecake and fruit cups.
President Emmanuel Duodu and Vice Presidents Mary Akuamoah-Boateng and Juliet Opoku emphasized the importance of women uniting as a community. They highlighted the empowerment of women through education, entrepreneurship, civic engagement, and advocacy for women’s health. After impactful messages and communal dining, Ms. Liz Okai, Assistant Chair of the Women’s Wing, delivered the closing remarks. The evening concluded with a lively time of dancing, fun, and laughter.