The future of leadership depends on intentionally preparing the next generation to occupy positions of authority. A critical period in this preparation is adolescence, when young people shape their identities, ambitions, and aspirations. For girls, societal expectations, gender stereotypes, limited opportunities, and lack of role models can affect their confidence and restrict their ambitions.
Mentorship provides girls with guidance, encouragement, and exposure to positive role models, helping them understand their abilities, explore career opportunities, and make informed decisions about their future. Leadership preparation should equip girls with practical skills, including communication, public speaking, emotional intelligence, resilience, digital and financial literacy, decision-making, and self-agency.
The 2026 Adolescent Mentorship and Empowerment Camp (AMEC) was held in Ho, the Volta Regional capital, to address these issues. Organized by the Volta Regional Directorate of the Department of Gender, with support from Global Affairs Canada and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the camp provided participants with opportunities to learn about various topics, including sexual and reproductive health and rights, gender equality, and leadership.
Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, emphasized that Ghana cannot afford to wait until 2034 to prepare girls for leadership positions. She noted that initiatives like AMEC help translate national policies into practical outcomes by equipping girls with knowledge, skills, and confidence.
The development of future female leaders requires the combined efforts of families, schools, communities, government, and development partners. Volta Regional Minister, Mr. James Gunu, commended the Department of Gender for organizing the camp, describing it as a critical investment in Ghana's future. He emphasized that raising and empowering adolescents is a shared national responsibility.
Madam Adjoa Nyanteng Yenyi, Programme Specialist for Adolescent and Youth Development at UNFPA Ghana, underscored the importance of investing in young people. She encouraged the participants to use the knowledge acquired at the camp to positively influence their peers, creating a ripple effect of empowerment among young people.
Leadership development is not only about preparing girls for formal positions of authority but also about equipping them to navigate the transition from adolescence to adulthood and make informed choices. Mrs. Mariam Jemima Akua Adzroe, Acting Volta Regional Director of Education, urged adolescent girls to embrace mentorship and grooming opportunities as they prepare for the future.
Key points
- Mentorship and leadership development are essential for adolescent girls to build confidence, skills, and resilience.
- The development of future female leaders requires a collective effort from families, schools, communities, government, and development partners.
- Investing in young people, particularly adolescent girls, is crucial for Ghana's future and sustainable development.
