Dr. Pedavoah inspires young women to embrace self-worth and pursue their dreams

Dr. Mary-Magdalene Pedavoah, a Senior Lecturer at the School of Chemical and Biochemical Sciences of the University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS), Navrongo, has encouraged young women to cultivate self-worth, believe in their abilities, and relentlessly pursue their academic and life aspirations.

She made the call while addressing participants at second edition of A Voice for Her Mentorship Series, held at Our Ladies of Lourdes Girls’ Senior High School in Navrongo on Saturday, June 13.

Speaking on the importance of self-awareness, Dr. Pedavoah stressed that lack of self-discovery could lead individuals to live according to the expectations of others rather than pursuing their own passions and purpose.

“If you don’t develop self-awareness, you will spend your life living someone else’s life,” she stated.

She further noted that true identity is not defined by external validation but by the unique qualities that distinguish an individual.

“You don’t need the attention of others to identify yourself. Your true identity is what makes you different,” she said.

Dr. Pedavoah encouraged the young women to pay close attention to the talents, interests, and abilities that come naturally to them, explaining that such awareness could help them identify suitable career paths and build confidence in their capabilities.

She also underscored the critical role of mentorship in personal and professional development, urging participants to seek guidance from experienced individuals who could support and inspire them through life’s challenges.

“You need a mentor who will sit you down and use her own story to motivate and encourage you. Mentorship is like human data transfer; I share my story and mistakes with you, and you use those lessons to achieve your dreams,” she explained.

Dr. Pedavoah further advised the students to remain determined, disciplined, committed, and focused on their goals while making deliberate efforts to achieve academic excellence.

Founder of A Voice for Her, Priscilla Khadi Vawurah, said the second edition of the mentorship series was organised following the positive impact recorded during the maiden edition.

According to her, the first programme, held in Tamale, inspired many young girls to pursue bigger ambitions and strengthened their determination to succeed.

“As a proud daughter of the Upper East Region and Navrongo, I realised that young girls here deserve the same opportunity and investment, and that is why we are here today,” she said.

Vawurah encouraged the participants to challenge themselves, think beyond their immediate circumstances, and envision greater possibilities for their future.

“Thinking big is an act of faith. It is a courageous decision to reject the limitations society tries to place on your mind. It means you do not have to be a victim of your environment,” she stated.

The Headmistress of Our Ladies of Lourdes Girls’ Senior High School, Mary Amana Akampoi, welcomed the initiative and expressed appreciation to the organisers for investing in the growth and development of the students.

She described mentorship as a collective responsibility that must be embraced to help address the challenges confronting young people and unlock their full potential.

“While we continue to empower our girls through academic and administrative competencies and skills, much more is needed to help them discover and develop their talents and potential,” she said.

Akampoi also highlighted several challenges facing the school, including inadequate infrastructure, poor network connectivity, insufficient places of convenience, limited teacher accommodation, and transportation difficulties.

She appealed to the government and philanthropic organisations to support the school by providing the resources needed to create a more conducive teaching and learning environment.

The event featured a panel discussion involving business executives, academics, professionals, and other distinguished personalities who shared experiences and practical insights to inspire the students to aspire higher and pursue their dreams with confidence.

Held on the theme, “The magic of thinking big: equipping young girls for school, leadership and life,” the programme brought together students, staff, traditional leaders, academics, the Member of Parliament for Navrongo Central, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Technology and Applied Sciences, and other key stakeholders committed to empowering young women.

Mike 105.3FM I Navrongo | David Adapuna

Maseda Spices