Empowering Women's Voices: A Journey of Growth and Transformation

In a bid to promote gender equality and empower female journalists, the Media Foundation for West Africa organized a 4-day women empowerment training program. Eight selected female broadcast journalists from across the region gathered in Accra, Ghana, to embark on a journey of self-discovery and professional growth.

Dr. Charity Binka, Executive Director of Women and Change (WOMEC), facilitated the first two days of the program. She delved into gender concepts and terminology, exploring the social and cultural constructs that shape our understanding of gender.

Highlighting the pressing issues of gender-based violence and women’s leadership in the media.

“Gender – based violence is a pervasive problem that affects not only women’s personal lives but also their professional growth and opportunities,” Dr Binka emphasized. “Media has a critical role to play in shaping public perceptions and attitudes towards gender-based violence.

Dr Bink stressed the need for women in leadership positions in the media to challenge harmful gender stereotypes and biases, and to amplify the voices and stories of survivors of gender-based violence.

“Women’s leadership in the media is crucial for promoting gender equality and challenging the status quo,” Dr Binka asserted. “We need more women in decision-making and driving change.

The participants engaged in a thought-provoking discussion, sharing their experiences and insights on the intersection of gender-based violence and women’s leadership in the media.

Dr Charity Binka’s presentation sparked a call to action, encouraging the participants to use their platforms to raise awareness about gender-based violence, support survivors and advocate for policy changes that promote gender equality

Dr. Aurelia Ayisi, a lecturer from the Department of Communication Studies, University of Ghana, took the reins for the final two days. She focused on women and leadership in the newsroom, navigating professional engagement.

The participants learned effective strategies for career advancement, overcoming gender-based obstacles, and assertively expressing themselves in the workplace.

Dr Aurelia Ayisi’s session on producing and reviewing content on women’s rights and empowerment advocacy was a highlight of the 4-day women empowerment training. She emphasized the importance of accurate and sensitive reporting on women’s rights and empowerment. Participants learned how to challenge harmful gender stereotypes and stigmatization in reporting.

Dr Ayisi shared techniques for crafting compelling stories that promote women’s empowerment and rights. She guided participants in reviewing and editing content to ensure accuracy, sensitivity and impact.

The session equipped participants with the skills and knowledge to create engaging and effective content that promotes women’s rights and empowerment, making a positive impact in the newsroom.

Seasoned journalist and Director of Television at GBC, Akushika Acquaye, was the special guest on the “experience sharing and discussion session.” She shared her personal experiences and challenges faced in the industry. Her inspiring story of perseverance and determination resonated with the participants, motivating them to strive for excellence.

She therefore, cautioned and encourage female journalists to be inquisitive and read large on unrelated issues that they would normally not read. “Do something no one will do and you must love what you do to succeed in your field”. She added.

The training program culminated in a renewed sense of purpose and confidence among the participants. They left with a deeper understanding of gender dynamics, equipped with skills to excel in their careers, and a supportive network of like-minded women.

The Media Foundation for West Africa’s initiative had ignited a spark, empowering these female journalists to become change-makers in their respective newsrooms and beyond.

As one participant aptly put it, “This training has given me the courage to speak up and assert myself in a male-dominated industry.”

The program concluded with a call to action, urging the participants to pay it forward and empower other women in their profession.

Story By: Ewurama Attoh |www.diamondfmonline.com |Ghana.