Through her project, Leading Ladies Network, Yawa seeks to forge partnerships and sustain mentoring between women who want to learn more, be more and achieve more. She does so by focusing on skill-building, networking and creating support for and among women. Yawa also believes travel can be harnessed as a tool for personal development due to its ability to “transform people without permission”.

Here she talks about her work with youth in Ghana.

What is your motivation for initiating and pursuing the Leading Ladies’ Network?
There are two things that drive me. The belief that it is possible for a woman to be empowered, yet maintain strong and healthy relationships with men and other women and my own personal need of the support, mentoring and partnerships that LLN provides help me stay focused on building LLN.

What has been some of your greatest challenges so far with the Leading Ladies’ Network project?
There have been many challenges as well as a very steep learning curve. Up until I resigned my full-time job, I was always challenged with having the time to effectively coordinate LLN efforts. I am now free to dedicate the required time and energy towards growing this vision. I am also thrilled about the team that is forming to lead our efforts.

What future do you envisage for the Leading Ladies’ Network?
I envisage a future with numerous Leading Ladies’ groups operating at secondary schools and university campuses and even in people’s homes. I look forward to a future where every LLN member is involved in a tangible project that will bring positive impact to society.

What has contributed to your successful so far?
The same five things that I believe makes anyone truly successful – a personal relationship with God that causes you to recognize your purpose; a dedication to developing the skills and relationships necessary to fulfill your purpose; an audacity to press forward even when everyone, including yourself, thinks you will fail; a humility that reminds you that you are essentially no better than the next person; and compassion demonstrated by your consistent help of others.

What sets entrepreneurs apart from everybody else?
I believe that entrepreneurs are just people with the boldness to follow their dreams and force them into reality.

Finally, what is your advice for young Africans who are looking to make and see a positive change in their world?
Change, if it is going to be meaningful and lasting, must start with you. When you become a better African, then there is hope for a better Africa.

To learn more about Yawa and the Leading Ladies Network visit www.leadingladiesnetwork.org.

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