On March 27, 2026, supported by Women’s Changemakers for Education, Bowney Initiative hosted a session at Pat Academy School, Teshie, titled “Girls Empowerment and Safe Spaces for All” in commemoration of International Women’s Day, under the theme Give to Gain. This initiative brought together four Alumni to share their knowledge and experiences with Junior High School students, helping to build confidence and encouraging greater focus on their schoolwork.
Learning In and Outside of the Classroom
Through a panel discussion moderated by Grace Amponsah, Founder and Program Lead at Bowney, alumni shared practical lessons on studying, resilience, and making better life choices during school and beyond. The Panel was represented by Salomey Dartey, a graduate of Bolgatanga Girls Senior High School, Henrietta Alabi, a first year student at Bosomtwe Girls STEM Senior High School, Gladys Ayesu, a student at the University of Cape Coast majoring in Communication Studies and Sylvia Sackey, a Human Resource major at the University of Professional Studies, Accra
From classroom learning strategies like active recall and overcoming fear of mathematics to participating in extracurricular activities and volunteering, the alumni openly discussed what worked for them, the challenges they faced, and how they overcame them.
As one alumna shared:
“It’s not about being good at math. It’s about practicing.”
Students were encouraged to learn harder, remain content, and stay engaged, building skills even when things feel challenging.
Creating Safe Spaces
The session took a powerful turn as conversations on sexual harassment were introduced, a topic many students had little prior knowledge of. Through honest and interactive discussions, students began to understand their rights, boundaries, and the importance of speaking up.
Some of their reflections were both eye-opening and empowering:
“We should not allow anyone to touch our private parts.”
“When I am harassed, I have to tell a trusted adult.”
“Say no and call it out.”
“I will report anyone who touches me.”
Beyond awareness, many students expressed a renewed commitment to their future:
“I will focus on my studies and achieve my goals.”
“I will avoid bad peers.”
“I will protect myself.”
These voices remind us that when young people are equipped with the right knowledge, they begin to make bold and informed decisions.
Why This Matters
This experience highlighted a clear need for continued work:
- More awareness on sexual harassment and personal safety
- Stronger mentorship and role models
- Continuous opportunities for young girls to learn, grow, and lead
We are deeply grateful to Women Changemakers for Education for their continuous support of our International Women’s Day activities over the past three years.
Support the Movement: Help Our Alumni Network Create Impact
Every session like this is made possible because someone chose to give. Your donation will support our Alumni network in continuing to mentor, inspire, and empower young girls in schools across the community.
No gift is too small. Every contribution creates real impact help us empower the next generation of confident, informed, and resilient young women.
