Aketesia Summit Empowers Young Women Leaders

“Aketesia” is a term of admiration and respect, used to describe a young woman who is elegant, virtuous and industrious. The Aketesia Summit 2025, held on Saturday, March 29 aimed to equip young ladies to truly embody this powerful ideal. It was the main highlight of the March Ladies’ Week celebration by Women in Health Sciences, under the Women’s Commission of HESA, led by Miss Shulamite Asamoah, a third-year Disability and Rehabilitation student. Under the theme “Empowering Feminine Minds for National Development”, the summit sought to inspire attendees to become catalysts for positive change in their communities and beyond, emphasizing the role of women in national development. Female students from the College of Health Sciences, senior high school girls, and guests from across the board gathered—not just to listen, but to learn, connect, and rethink what it means to be a woman of influence in Ghana today.

The summit was graced by a lineup of inspiring figures who shared their real-life stories and hard-earned insights. Professor Marian Asantewah Nkansah and Professor Christian Agyare added that layer of academic weight, while Professor Mariam El Boakye-Gyasi and Dr. Erica Ntiamoah Mensah dug deep in their keynote sessions. They spoke about the struggle and the journey behind their achievements.

Professor Priscilla K. Manteh and Miss Emmanuella Afriyie Asare (GMB 2024 1st Runner-Up) also brought truth and presence. Emmanuella’s session in particular reminded everyone of the quiet power in community, sisterhood, and simply showing up for one another. The sessions were interactive and thoughtful. Attendees took notes, asked questions, and shared perspectives.

Topics ranged from wellness and mental health to education, relationships, and using social networks to create meaningful change. It was a space where women were reminded that empowerment is not just isolation, but about balance, respect, and choosing the right support systems and that education isn’t just a degree, but also a tool for national influence.

With moderators like Assasim (social media influencer), Prince Amoako (former MSA Vice President), and Rhoda Obenewa Ofori (KSB Women’s Commissioner), the flow of the event stayed lively and smooth. There were performances from Bhadext Patoa and Skygee that got the audience entertained, and a spoken word delivery by Rachael Oparebea. The event was truly an experience.

After the event, attendees, after taking pictures, had a lot to say about the program. It was inspiring, practical and deeply personal. By the end, they didn’t just leave feeling motivated; they left with real tools, new connections, and stories that changed how they see themselves. The Aketesia Summit 2025 showed exactly what happens when young women come together with intention and authenticity. These young women walked away ready to live out Aketesia: poised with elegance, grounded in virtue, and driven by industrious spirit. We’re proud this happened right here at the College of Health Sciences.

Report by - Dzidula Yawa Tekpor (MSA)

The Health Sciences Chronicle