The Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) joined over 100 stock exchanges around the world to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the World Federation of Exchanges’ “Ring the Bell for Gender Equality” initiative on March 8, 2024.
In line with this year’s theme “Invest in Women, Accelerate Progress”, the GSE celebrated the day with a panel discussion by women leaders actively advocating for gender equality to share their insights and inspire inclusivity. Ms. Marcia Ashong-Sam, the founder of The Board Room Africa (TBrA), Africa’s largest private network of women leaders and executives and publishers of the Annual Ghana Boardroom Diversity Index, delivered an impactful keynote address that formed the basis for the panel discussion. Goodwill messages were also delivered by Ms. Camile Hacibeyoglu, Senior Country, Cluster Officer of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Ghana, Mr. Tolu Lacroix, Executive Director of UN Global Compact Network, Ghana, and Ms. Deborah Mawuse Agyemfra (Deputy Director-General, Legal, Securities and Exchange Commission).
Distinguished panelists included two remarkable women leaders: Mrs. Beryl Agyekum Ayaaba, CEO of EchoHouse, and Mrs. Linda Yaa Ampah, CEO of Cadling Fashions and KAD Manufacturing Limited in Ghana.
Beryl’s entrepreneurial journey exemplifies strong leadership as she transformed EchoHouse into a dominant force in Ghana’s marketing industry through initiatives like Echo Magazine. Her success in a male-dominated sector serves as a testament to the potential of women in diverse industries, showcasing their ability to excel and innovate. Echo House is a media and advertising agency.
Linda Ampah’s dedication to women’s empowerment is evident through her fashion house and manufacturing company, Cadling Fashions. She not only provides jobs but also imparts valuable skills and fosters confidence among vulnerable women. Linda’s contributions extend beyond her business endeavors as she serves as a judge on Ghana’s Most Beautiful reality show and holds leadership positions in key organizations, including the Association of Garment and Apparel Manufacturers of Ghana.
The contributions of these panelists underscored the importance of diverse perspectives and initiatives in achieving gender equality. Their exemplary leadership serves as an inspiration to women seeking to make a meaningful impact in their respective fields.
Representatives from organizations such as the African Science Academy, Women Entrepreneurship Club, Soroptimist International, Women in Finance and Investment, Zonta Clubs in Ghana, Central Securities Depository, Ghana Securities Industry Association, the Young Investors Network, and media professionals actively contributed to the dynamic atmosphere of the program.
The bell-ringing ceremony, symbolizing commitment to gender equality, was led by Mrs. Diana Okine, GSE’s Head of Strategy, and International Relations, accompanied by the Deputy Managing Director, Mr. Frank Berle, panelists, and other dignitaries.
This year’s program witnessed a remarkable turnout, with approximately 80 participants attending in person and an additional 180 participants joining online.
The Ghana Stock Exchange remains steadfast in its dedication to advancing gender equality, embracing the spirit of the “Ring the Bell for Gender Equality” initiative, and contributing to the global endeavor to create a more inclusive and diverse financial sector.
March 11, 2024
