FirstBank empowers women through mentorship and wellbeing talks

As part of activities to commemorate the 2026 International Women’s Day, FirstBank Ghana, through the FirstBank Women Network (FWN), organised two impactful webinars aimed at empowering women within the Bank and encouraging personal and professional growth. The sessions formed part of the bank’s broader efforts to celebrate women while reinforcing a culture of mentorship, wellbeing, and mutual support across the organization.

This year’s global theme for International Women’s Day, “Give to Gain,” highlights the importance of investing in others as a pathway to shared progress. The theme encourages individuals and organisations to give time, knowledge, mentorship, and support to others, recognising that when women uplift one another, everyone benefits. It reinforces the idea that collective growth, collaboration, and generosity create stronger workplaces and communities.

The first webinar featured Otema Yirenkyi, Co-founder of BecauseSheCan, who spoke on the topic “Reverse Mentoring.” In her presentation, she explored the evolving nature of mentorship within the banking sector, noting that while traditional mentoring often involves experienced professionals guiding younger staff, reverse mentoring allows younger professionals to share fresh perspectives, digital insights, and innovative thinking with senior colleagues. She encouraged leaders and managers to create enabling environments where employees feel safe to share ideas, ask questions, and learn from one another.

“Mentorship must evolve with the workplace. When organisations create safe spaces for knowledge sharing, both senior and younger professionals can learn from each other, and that exchange ultimately strengthens the institution,” Otema Yirenkyi said.

The second session was delivered by Dr Asomaniwaa Owusu-Ansah, who spoke on the topic “Give Yourself Grace.” Her presentation focused on the importance of self-kindness and intentional self-care for women navigating professional and personal responsibilities. She encouraged participants to take their emotional wellbeing seriously by paying attention to their mental health, managing stress effectively, and investing time in their overall wellbeing. She also highlighted the importance of resilience, reminding participants that every woman is an asset whose unique contributions help shape stronger institutions and communities.

“Women often give so much of themselves to their work, families, and communities. It is equally important to extend that same kindness to yourself by prioritising your wellbeing, your growth, and your peace of mind,” Dr Asomaniwaa Owusu-Ansah noted.

Adding her voice to the discussions, the Chairperson of the FirstBank Women Network, Grace Isaac-Aryee, encouraged women across the bank to support and uplift one another, emphasising that collective support is key to women’s advancement.

“Let us continue to support one another and celebrate each other’s achievements. When women become their sister’s keeper and help each other thrive, we create stronger workplaces and a better society. We can start here at the bank and extend that spirit everywhere we find ourselves,” Grace Isaac-Aryee said.

The webinars attracted participation from women across different departments of the bank, creating a platform for meaningful conversations on mentorship, wellbeing, and professional growth.

FirstBank Ghana remains committed to nurturing an inclusive workplace where women are supported to grow, lead, and contribute meaningfully to the bank’s success and to national development.

Otema Yirenkyi (left) and Dr. Asomaniwaa Owusu-Ansah