Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire - Sandrine Roland, Commissioner General of the Women's Employment and Entrepreneurship Forum (FEEF), has introduced the "Glow 45+" initiative. This program aims to guide women through a new phase of life, focusing on age-related changes, health, financial autonomy, and professional reinvention. The initiative brought together participants for panels on September 26, 2026, discussing physical transformations, menopause, mental health, financial management, and career reconversion.
The keynote address was delivered by journalist Norberte Zézé, who encouraged participants to view age as an opportunity rather than a limitation. She emphasized the importance of self-reflection and not being constrained by societal expectations. Zézé shared her personal experiences, including writing her first book at 58, pursuing further education at 60, and joining an incubation program in 2022. Her message was one of empowerment, urging women to see their accumulated experience as a valuable asset.
The panels addressed various aspects of women's lives, including mental health, menopause, bodily changes, and sexuality. The goal was to foster open and honest discussions about these topics, free from taboos. The initiative also highlighted the significance of financial autonomy, with a panel dedicated to investment and the stock market. Sandrine Roland stressed that financial planning and smart decision-making are crucial during this stage of life.
Rachelle Mekachera, President and Founder of the NGO Todis Énergie, also spoke at the event. She encouraged participants to maintain their confidence and pursue their objectives despite challenges. Mekachera emphasized that age and past experiences should not be seen as limitations, but rather as resources to achieve their aspirations.
The "Glow 45+" initiative is part of the FEEF's efforts to support women's empowerment and entrepreneurship. By providing a platform for discussion and guidance, the program aims to help women navigate the challenges of midlife and beyond. The event demonstrated the importance of community and solidarity among women in achieving their goals.
According to Sandrine Roland, the "Glow 45+" initiative is a response to the needs of women in this stage of life. By addressing topics such as health, finance, and career development, the program seeks to equip women with the tools and confidence they need to thrive. The initiative has sparked important conversations and provided a supportive environment for women to share their experiences.
The success of the "Glow 45+" initiative highlights the growing recognition of the importance of supporting women's development and well-being in Côte d'Ivoire. As the country continues to promote women's empowerment and entrepreneurship, initiatives like "Glow 45+" are likely to play a vital role in shaping the lives of women and contributing to the country's economic growth.
Key points
- The "Glow 45+" initiative aims to support women in Côte d'Ivoire as they navigate midlife changes.
- The program focuses on health, financial autonomy, and professional reinvention.
- The initiative is part of the FEEF's efforts to promote women's empowerment and entrepreneurship.
