By Ndumbe Bell Joseph Gaston in Douala
One of the best flagship projects for women empowerment “Access Women Network” was introduced to the Douala Community last October 2024.
The switch in mindset by the bank to offer an equitable and suitable environment for the development of women’s full potential and create a balance between their professional and personnel lives was the opening remarks of Doris Ateh, the Human Resource Manager and Soji Okusanya Iyabo, Executive Director of Corporate and Investment Banking in the group bank and a member of the Board. Soji Okusanya Iyabo voiced additional concerns making it a strategic commitment by the bank to develop the potential of women by offering a conducive and flexible working programme to foster progress.
“I encourage all women to excel in their professional endeavours while taking care of their personal lives”, Soji remarked.
The President of Access Bank Cameroon, Patience Melone believes that Access Women Network will update, cultivate the professionalism and leadership qualities and in the long term, mould them as role models. She said that this journey can only be achieved if they can inculcate the spirit of perseverance and excellence within the framework of her two core values of faith in God and the importance of family. “I believe only God can help a woman stay organised in order to succeed”.
Presenting details of the all-inclusive network, the Human Resource Manager, Doris Ateh, was quoted as saying that, to tackle the challenges and strengthen their commitment, their mission is to provide essential resources, tools and an environment conducive to the development of their kin. Access Bank believes that the increased opportunities found through mentoring, training and networking will increase the exchange of experiences, views and add value to the development of their communities and the nation.
The Group, Access Bank Plc said to be present in three continents with 16 subsidiaries in Africa and having branches in Akwa, Moussadi and Yaounde already disclosed that they have 10 000 corporate SMEs and individual accounts since they began (only) in May 23, 2022.
So, they are determined to use women empowerment through their network, to strengthen the bank’s brand, attract leadership talents, promote culture and diversity and be seen as a catalyst in promoting change in the communities in which they are operational.