The MTN Y’ello Ladies Network has marked its first anniversary with a renewed and intensified call to advance women’s leadership, empowerment, and inclusion, positioning the platform as a key driver of transformation within MTN Ghana.
The celebration brought together staff, industry leaders, and partners to reflect on the network’s journey over the past year, assess its impact, and outline a forward-looking agenda aimed at expanding opportunities for women across the organisation.
The Chairperson of the network, Antoinette Kwofie, described the initiative as a bold and purposeful platform that has rapidly evolved into a vibrant and influential community.
“The network was established to promote career advancement, professional development, and empowerment for women across the organisation,” she said.
She explained that the network is open to all women within MTN Ghana, regardless of department, role, or tenure, creating an inclusive and safe space where members can connect, share experiences, and grow both professionally and personally.
“What we envisioned as a meaningful platform has grown into a movement of impact and purpose. It has created opportunities for women to be intentional about their growth and to support one another meaningfully,” she added.
According to her, the establishment of a dedicated steering committee, comprising representatives from various divisions, has played a critical role in driving the network’s activities and ensuring its relevance across the organisation.
Over the past year, the network has translated its vision into tangible outcomes through a series of initiatives focused on empowerment, mentorship, and social impact. A notable achievement was its breast cancer awareness campaign, which raised GH¢20,000 to support advocacy, education, and early detection efforts.
Beyond fundraising, the network has strengthened internal collaboration, built meaningful relationships among employees, and contributed to MTN Ghana’s broader people-centred culture.
Looking ahead, Ms. Kwofie announced an ambitious lineup of programmes for 2026, including leadership development series, coaching circles, structured mentorship programmes, and expanded health and community outreach initiatives.
Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana, Stephen Blewett, commended the initiative, describing it as a strong reflection of the company’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and talent development.
“You are strong women, and each of you brings unique value and qualities that shape how we run our business,” he said.
He highlighted the critical role women play in MTN’s success, particularly within its leadership structure.
“We have an extremely strong presence of women in our leadership team. The success of MTN is not by chance—it is driven by the contributions of passionate people across the organisation, especially women,” he stated.
Mr. Blewett further stressed the importance of mentorship and inclusive leadership in sustaining growth, encouraging continuous investment in people as a core business strategy.
After just one year, the MTN Y’ello Ladies Network has established itself as more than an internal initiative—it is emerging as a catalyst for empowerment, collaboration, and institutional change.
Inclusion Key to Future of Work
Delivering the keynote address, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Brainwave Africa, Angela Kyeremanteng Jimoh, underscored the importance of investing in people as a pathway to sustainable impact.
“The greatest impact is not measured by what we hold, but by the lives we change and the opportunities we create,” she said.
She noted that despite persistent challenges such as limited representation and societal expectations, women across Africa are increasingly redefining leadership and making significant strides in business, science, technology, and governance.
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“Our greatest strength lies not just in individual excellence, but in collective empowerment. Networks like this create spaces where women can learn, support, and grow together,” she added.
She described the anniversary as more than a milestone, calling it a clear signal that organisations cannot build the future of work without fully integrating women into leadership and decision-making processes.
The network’s growing influence reinforces a broader message: when women are empowered to lead and thrive, organisations become stronger, more innovative, and better positioned to drive societal progress.
