Maria Johana Yuorpor’s appointment to dual leadership roles within the Young African Women Congress (YAWC) Network signifies a significant step in the organization’s mission to empower young African women and foster their leadership potential. As Director for Business Development and a member of the Global Governing Council, Yuorpor’s diverse skillset and extensive experience in various fields will be instrumental in shaping the Network’s growth and strategic direction. Her background in psychology, coupled with her expertise in human resource management, marketing, and strategic management, provides a solid foundation for navigating the complexities of organizational development and leadership.
Yuorpor’s role on the Global Governing Council will involve contributing to the Network’s overall strategic vision and ensuring its alignment with the core mission of empowering African women. She will participate in crucial decision-making processes, including policy development, financial oversight, and leadership selection. Her responsibilities will encompass strategic planning, contributing to the organization’s long-term goals, and evaluating key performance indicators to ensure the Network’s effectiveness and impact. Furthermore, she will play a vital role in selecting and evaluating leadership within the organization, ensuring the continued strength and effectiveness of the YAWC Network’s governance structure.
As Director for Business Development, Yuorpor will spearhead the Network’s growth strategy, focusing on expanding its reach and impact. This will involve developing and implementing initiatives to bolster revenue generation and ensure the Network’s financial sustainability. She will forge strategic partnerships with key stakeholders, including clients, partners, and influential figures within relevant industries. Building and nurturing these relationships will be crucial for expanding the Network’s influence and creating opportunities for collaboration and growth. Negotiating and securing high-value contracts and partnerships will be another key aspect of her role, contributing to the Network’s long-term financial stability and enabling it to pursue its ambitious goals.
Yuorpor’s academic background, including a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with Philosophy and a Master of Philosophy in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from the University of Ghana, Legon, provides a robust theoretical foundation for her leadership roles. Her diplomas in Human Resource Management, Marketing, Strategic Management, and Customer Care, obtained from the Institute of Commercial Management in the United Kingdom, further enhance her practical skills and expertise in areas critical to organizational development and business strategy. Currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Development Management and Governance at Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business Integrated Development Studies (SDD-UBIDS) in Wa, Ghana, Yuorpor demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing development in Africa.
Beyond her academic pursuits and professional roles within the YAWC Network, Yuorpor actively contributes to her community through various leadership positions. As a tutor at the School of Continuing and Distance Education, University of Ghana, Legon, Wa Centre, she imparts knowledge and inspires students pursuing psychology. Her commitment to education extends beyond the classroom, as she mentors young women and men in business development, empowering them to achieve success and recognition. Her dedication to empowering others is further evident in her role as the Upper West Regional Coordinator for the Northern Development Authority, where she contributes to regional development efforts.
Yuorpor’s involvement in various non-profit organizations underscores her commitment to social impact and community development. As Board Chairperson for Tieme Ndo, an NGO working with rural farmers in the Upper West Region, she champions agricultural development and supports local communities. Her role as a board member for the Coalition for Positive Impact (CPI), an organization focused on developing young African business leaders and entrepreneurs, reflects her passion for fostering innovation and leadership within the African youth community. These diverse experiences and leadership roles equip her with a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing African communities and contribute to her effectiveness in driving positive change through the YAWC Network. The two-year term for her appointments, with the possibility of renewal, provides ample opportunity for Yuorpor to contribute significantly to the Network’s growth and its mission of empowering young African women. Her dedication, expertise, and commitment to community development position her as a powerful force for positive change within the YAWC Network and beyond.
