Story by George Yawson VINEH
As the world celebrates International Women’s Day on March 8, my attention is being drawn to the resilience, determination, and achievements of women and girls who continue to pursue their dreams despite challenges. Across Ghana, many young women are taking bold steps to build careers, start businesses, and support their families while contributing to national development.
This year’s observance highlights the need for stronger support systems by the government and society to empower women and girls. Globally, the 2026 theme emphasizes “Rights, Justice, and Action for All Women and Girls,” calling for deliberate efforts to remove barriers that limit opportunities for women.
In Ghana, young women are increasingly entering fields such as entrepreneurship, digital technology, agriculture, and creative arts. From small-scale traders and fashion designers to tech innovators and students pursuing higher education, many are determined to break societal barriers and create better futures for themselves.
Twenty-four-year-old entrepreneur Yaomi Boateng in Accra is one such example. Starting with a small online clothing business during her Senior High School level, she now employs two other young women and hopes to expand her brand nationwide. According to her, persistence and support from family and mentors have been key to her success.
Similarly, other young women are venturing into vocational trades such as hairdressing, catering, tailoring, and makeup artistry.
These professions provide not only financial independence but also opportunities to train and empower other young women in their communities.
Women’s empowerment advocates say investing in education, skills training, and access to finance is critical for young women to thrive. In Ghana, women constitute more than half of the population, making their contribution essential to economic growth and social development.
Organizations and development partners also continue to support initiatives that promote women’s economic empowerment and leadership. Programs focused on entrepreneurship, savings groups, and digital skills are helping many women build sustainable livelihoods and strengthen their communities.
Not forgetting individuals like Christiana Yayra Agbenyega CEO of ChristaYayra, Mrs. Rose Chiddy are who are in their own ways trying to empower many.
As the world marks this important day, the stories of young Ghanaian women striving to succeed serve as a reminder that when women are empowered, families, communities, and entire nations benefit.
International Women’s Day therefore remains not only a celebration of women’s achievements but also a call to action to ensure that every woman and girl has the opportunity to reach her full potential.