By Priscilla Oye Ofori
Accra, June 19, GNA – Gifty Naana Dansoa Anti, broadcast journalist and gender advocate, has urged women to persevere in the face of challenges.
She said perseverance was essential for women seeking to make an impact in the media and other sectors.
Ms Anti gave the advice at the second edition of the JAMILA International Women’s Forum, organised by the JAMILA Trust for International Development, a non-governmental organisation, in Accra. The forum was on the theme: “Empowering Women, Empowering Humanity: Breaking Barriers, Building Futures.”
The event brought together dignitaries, including representatives of the Ga Traditional Council, queen mothers, officials from the Ghana Prisons Service, Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), the Ghana Military Police, civil society organisations, and academia.
The gender advocate acknowledged that women “don’t have it all and don’t know it all,” noting that they were allowed to make mistakes and even fail. However, she emphasised that failure must not be a stopping point.
“You hit the ground, you rise, and you keep moving to break barriers. When you have to break through a glass ceiling, you will definitely get cut. Sometimes you begin bleeding, sometimes pieces of the glass get stuck in your hand, but it won’t stop you. That is life. Know when to rest and know when to take a break,” she said.
Ms Anti recounted instances in which her work attracted strong opposition, including threats during field reporting.
“Even just a few days ago, I was accused of something. I think I must add to my CV that I am the most vilified media woman. I have scars on my legs, on my hands, and very deep within from the work I have done. On top of it all, daily, weekly, and monthly, I receive insults and attacks on social media. But I haven’t stopped, because I have a charge to keep and a God to glorify,” she stated.
She noted that women’s empowerment, defined as helping women uncover their potential, remained widely misunderstood, even by some women.
Ms. Anti added that women of faith, including Christians, Muslims, and African traditionalists, are gifted to serve as custodians of land, culture, and family, as well as to raise children.
Mentioning her age, 56, she said it was intentional to inspire women, stressing that age, background, status, or challenges should not prevent anyone from achieving their goals.
The broadcaster also highlighted her long-running programme, “The Standpoint,” which for 18 years has provided a platform for discussions on women’s issues and leadership.
She reaffirmed her commitment to using the media to amplify the concerns of women and girls.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe
By Priscilla Oye Ofori