Vice President Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has called on women in public service and journalism to embrace their leadership roles with confidence, stressing that visibility, responsibility and integrity remain central to strengthening democratic governance.

In a Facebook statement following her address at the first Annual National Forum on Women in Government and Media, the Vice President reflected on the need for women to deliberately shape national conversations and serve as examples to others rising behind them.

Held under the theme Leadership, Visibility and Public Trust, the forum brought together women in public office, the media and other decision-making spaces to assess their influence and contributions to national development.

According to Prof Opoku-Agyemang, the gathering was an opportunity not only to discuss policy and governance but also to reflect on personal journeys and the many young women who look up to those already occupying leadership positions.

She noted that leadership does not always begin with titles or positions of authority but often starts with simple acts of support and empathy.

“Every woman is a leader in her own right,” she stated, adding that sometimes leadership begins with “being a listening ear or a source of encouragement.”

The vice president underscored the powerful role of the media in shaping public perception and national direction, describing it as a “classroom for society” capable of elevating credible voices, setting standards and influencing accountability.

She observed that women working in journalism and public office therefore carry significant responsibility in determining the quality of public discourse and the trust citizens place in institutions.

Prof Opoku-Agyemang further encouraged women to believe in their capabilities and actively claim space at decision-making tables, arguing that institutions become stronger and more effective when women are included.

“The institutions that accommodate women in decision-making spaces are stronger and more impactful,” she emphasised, urging participants to recognise their role in deepening democratic governance.

Her message resonated strongly with attendees who expressed confidence in the forum becoming a growing platform to amplify women’s voices in leadership and public life.

The annual event is expected to continue fostering collaboration between women across sectors while promoting greater representation, visibility and accountability in Ghana’s governance and media landscape.