Overcoming Obstacles Highlighted as Key to Career Success at Volta Hall Anniversary Symposium
Speakers at Volta Hall’s 65th anniversary symposium have underscored the importance of overcoming obstacles as a crucial step towards achieving career success.
The event, which is part of a series of activities earmarked to celebrate the Hall’s long-standing tradition of promoting excellence and empowerment of women, brought together distinguished guests and alumni who shared their personal journeys and professional insights.
The symposium, themed, “A Holistic Approach to Excellence: Achieving Success One Hurdle at a Time,” featured discussions on navigating career challenges and the importance of resilience.
In her welcome address, Dr. Margaret Amankwah-Poku, Hall Warden, stated that the symposium was organised to provide a multifaceted understanding of success from the perspectives of various alumni who have traversed various career trials and have amassed good experiences to share.
“This symposium aims to help us with an understanding of success through a multifaceted lens, encompassing personal growth, ethical considerations, societal impact, obstacles, resilience and determination,” she said.
Representing the Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Mary Chinery-Hesse, Registrar Mrs. Emelia Agyei-Mensah highlighted the social barriers women face. “As women striving to make our mark in a society that still places various social barriers in our path, indeed there are many hurdles to work through,” she remarked.
She urged attendees to support and mentor young women to help them overcome these barriers and achieve their goals.
Prof. Mrs. Esther Sakyi-Dawson, Retired Justice Mrs. Agnes M.A. Dzordie and Naval Captain Naa Ayeley Akwei-Aryee shared their experiences of overcoming challenges. They stressed that focus, intentionality and having a life plan were essential for success.
“Good communication skills, teamwork and voluntary work are essential for versatility and connecting with opportunities,” advised Prof. Sakyi-Dawson. She encouraged students to be open-minded about their career paths and to seize life’s opportunities.
Naval Captain Akwei-Aryee, on her part, stressed the importance of work-life balance and continuous learning. “Spend time with your families, pursue hobbies and take care of your mental health while striving for a successful career,” she said. “Continuous learning is essential to building capacity and staying relevant,” the Naval Captain added.
While encouraging women and young girls to stay focused and remember that one’s motivations are key to overcoming obstacles, Justice Dzordie said, “Obstacles are a part of the journey, but your focus and determination will see you through.”
The panel session during the symposium, moderated by TV presenter and Journalist, Rebecca Awuah, provided a platform for practical advice and inspiring discussions.
The event was a fitting celebration of Volta Hall’s legacy, which inspired attendees to pursue their goals with determination and resilience.
The year-long anniversary celebration, which was launched in November 2023, will be climaxed later this year. The anniversary is also to acknowledge and pay tribute to internal and external stakeholders who have contributed to the enduring legacy of Volta Hall.