Joyce Bawa Mogtari, Presidential Advisor and Special Aide to John Dramani Mahama, has called for greater opportunities for women, stressing that many qualified women are often overlooked despite possessing the necessary skills and experience.

Speaking in reflection of International Women’s Day, she noted that while progress has been made in advancing women’s participation in leadership and professional spaces, the benefits are often limited to those who already have access to decision-making platforms.

According to her, many capable women remain excluded from opportunities that would allow them to demonstrate their competence and leadership potential.

Mrs. Bawa Mogtari made the remarks after listening to a podcast interview featuring Ethel Coffie, a leading expert in financial technology, who highlighted how highly qualified professionals—particularly women—are frequently overlooked not because of a lack of ability but because they are not given the chance to prove themselves.

Reflecting on her own career journey, Mrs. Bawa Mogtari recounted how she transitioned from private legal practice into the public sector, where she underwent a rigorous recruitment process that involved several interview panels before she was eventually appointed Board Secretary and Acting Head of Legal and Estates.

She explained that the support and trust she received from her supervisor at the time played a significant role in shaping her career.

According to her, being entrusted with responsibility and encouraged to take initiative helped build her confidence, strengthen her communication skills and open doors for further professional growth.

Mrs. Bawa Mogtari noted that debates about women’s capabilities can sometimes become divisive, with questions often raised about whether women are ready to lead.

However, she argued that such questions cannot be fairly answered if women are not first given the opportunities and responsibilities required to demonstrate their abilities.

She emphasised that many women continue to challenge stereotypes and excel in various fields, but what they require most is access to opportunities rather than doubt.

Mrs. Bawa Mogtari therefore, urged institutions and individuals to support women by providing mentorship, opportunities and platforms that would enable them to thrive.

She also encouraged society to give women the benefit of the doubt and allow them the space to demonstrate their potential, stressing that empowering women ultimately benefits communities and national development.