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The Power of Professional Networks for Women in Public Relations
A professional network is more than just a list of contacts. It is a supportive and evolving community of people who help you learn, grow, and succeed. For women, especially in the field of Public Relations (PR), networks can help break down barriers, amplify their voices, and create new paths to leadership and recognition.
Whether you are a student starting your career, a professional growing in a competitive field, or an entrepreneur building your business, one thing remains true: a strong professional network is key to success. This is particularly evident in the case of Women in PR Ghana, a powerful example of how networking can transform careers and empower individuals.
A Leading Network for Women in PR
One of Ghana’s leading professional networks is Women in PR Ghana. Founded by Ms. Faith Senam Ocloo in May 2017, this organization is dedicated to educating, mentoring, and empowering female PR professionals and students. Over nearly a decade, Women in PR Ghana (WIPR) has created a powerful platform for women in the Public Relations and Communications industry.
The organization offers learning opportunities, networking events, and has become a source of community and growth for many women navigating their PR careers. One of its notable initiatives is the Top 10 Women in PR, an annual list that celebrates excellence and motivates women in the field to continue pushing boundaries.
Celebrating Excellence: Women in PR Stars
This year, WIPR introduced the first-ever Women in PR Stars to recognize the outstanding work of four women in the industry. Among the 2024 Women in PR Stars are:
- Suzy Ansah, Regional Marketing Specialist, West & Central Africa, US Agency for Global Media & Voice of America
- Linda Segbefia, Corporate Communications Officer, UBA
- Lorrencia Adam Nkrumah, Public Affairs Specialist, Nestlé Central & West Africa
- Priscilla Mawuena Adjeidu, Communications Officer, World Health Organization, Tanzania
These women represent excellence and leadership in PR, showing the power of recognition in inspiring others to aim higher.
The Impact of WIPR Community and Networking
During a discussion on Women in PR X-Spaces, the stars emphasized that networking is central to their professional achievements. They highlighted how networking benefits their careers in multiple ways.
Community Support
One of the most powerful benefits of a network like Women in PR Ghana is the community and peer support it offers. In a demanding field like public relations, challenges are inevitable. As honouree Linda Segbefia notes, “having a strong support system makes a significant difference.” Women in PR provides a welcoming space where women can share experiences, seek advice, and learn from one another. This sense of community is often what keeps women confident in their roles.
Growth through Meaningful Connections
Lorrencia Adam Nkrumah believes that beyond being in the network, one must be intentional and have a heart for continuous learning. Having moved from journalism to corporate communications, she has excelled thanks to the support network and community provided by Women in PR, which has enabled her to add significant value to every organization she has worked in.
Lorrencia believes that individuals in professional groups must “work the network” to their advantage. “It’s not enough to simply be a member; one must network intentionally.”
Amplifying African Voices on the Global Stage
Suzy Ansah describes the Women in PR Ghana community as a platform for female communicators in Africa to support each other and thrive. Relying heavily on panel discussions, mentorship programs, and peer learning opportunities, women including the honouree have been able to sharpen their expertise and deepen their influence not just in Ghana but globally.
She noted that, “The confidence I have gained from Women in PR Ghana community has helped me advocate more boldly for African voices in international media.” She added that, there is a sense of collective strength, where you know you are not alone and can easily reach out to a member for professional support.
Mentorship Matters
As one of the younger honorees, Priscilla Mawuena Adjeidu affirmed the opportunities this community and platform offers. Priscilla spotlighted the critical role of mentorship:
“When young professionals like me have access to trailblazers, it gives us more courage and clarity in our path.”
As a young professional, especially working outside of Ghana, she has found immense value in the mentorship, guidance, and sense of belonging that this network provides. She has had the rare privilege of learning directly from trailblazers in the industry, women who have paved the way and are generous enough to hold the door open for others.
Looking Ahead: The 9th Women in PR Summit
Calling all PR professionals and enthusiasts! The 9th Women in PR Summit is an event you can’t afford to miss. Join us on July 4th and 5th, 2024, for an enriching experience that will empower you, expand your network, and inspire your journey in public relations. Day 1 is a virtual session and Day 2 will be held at the Ghana India Kofi Annan Center of Excellence in ICT in Accra. This event is not just a summit—it’s an opportunity to learn, connect, and be inspired.
Professional networks play a critical role in career development. They provide access to knowledge, support, and opportunities for growth and recognition. As shown through Women in PR Ghana and its initiatives, when women connect and support each other, they rise together.
