Polaris Bank marked International Women’s Day 2024 with a resounding commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment. Themed “Accelerating Action: Breaking Barriers & Creating Equal Opportunities,” the bank’s IWD seminar served as a platform for influential voices to underscore the pressing need for swift and decisive measures to advance gender parity across all sectors. The event brought together thought leaders, industry professionals, and advocates for women’s rights to discuss the systemic obstacles hindering women’s progress and strategize effective solutions for creating a more inclusive and equitable future. The bank’s leadership emphasized the importance of moving beyond mere conversation and actively implementing policies that support women’s growth and empowerment, aligning with the global call to accelerate action towards a world where women have equal opportunities.
Mrs. Abimbola Ozomah, Executive Director of Polaris Bank, highlighted the significance of International Women’s Day as both a celebration of women’s achievements and a call to action. She emphasized the urgency of dismantling systemic barriers and biases that impede women’s advancement. Ozomah underscored Polaris Bank’s dedication to gender inclusivity, asserting that empowering women and ensuring their full participation in society are core values driving the bank’s mission to build a more equitable world for all. The seminar, she explained, represented a tangible manifestation of the bank’s commitment to fostering an environment where women can thrive and contribute their full potential.
The seminar unfolded with an enriching exchange of insights and practical strategies led by a panel of industry experts. The discussions centered on overcoming systemic barriers that limit women’s opportunities, fostering leadership development programs for women, and enhancing financial inclusion for women. The panelists shared their experiences and expertise, offering actionable advice and inspiring attendees to become agents of change in their respective spheres of influence. The shared goal was to equip participants with the tools and knowledge to actively contribute to accelerating gender equality.
Ayaba M. Ayo-Joseph, a non-executive director at Polaris Bank, advocated for stronger networks of support among women, urging them to uplift and empower each other rather than succumb to negativity and competition. She emphasized that this spirit of mutual support should be a continuous practice, not just an annual observance on International Women’s Day. Ayo-Joseph’s message resonated with the theme of accelerating action, calling for consistent effort and solidarity in the pursuit of gender equality. She challenged women to be the change they wish to see, inspiring them to push boundaries and support each other’s progress.
Mrs. Subulade Giwa-Amu, another non-executive director at Polaris Bank, underscored the crucial role of character, resilience, and purpose in achieving success. She acknowledged the inevitability of challenges but emphasized integrity as the key to overcoming them. Giwa-Amu also highlighted the importance of financial independence for women, advising them to cultivate a clear vision and focus to achieve their financial goals. She acknowledged the complexities of work-life balance, particularly for women, and stressed the importance of prioritizing effectively at different life stages. Further emphasizing the need for continuous self-improvement, Giwa-Amu urged women to invest in their personal and professional growth as a non-negotiable element of success.
Ndidi Ukaonu, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Parthian Partners, called for a shift from discussion to action in the pursuit of gender equality. She challenged participants to define their individual impact and take ownership of their success, urging them to reflect on their contributions to positive change. Ukaonu encouraged women to embrace their power and take initiative, rather than waiting for permission to excel. Her closing remarks served as a powerful call to action, urging participants to accelerate action, dismantle barriers, and create opportunities for themselves and other women. She reminded them that the world awaits their contributions and that the time for action is now.
The Polaris Bank IWD seminar underscored the institution’s commitment to fostering an environment where women can thrive. By providing a platform for insightful conversations and expert advice, the event empowered attendees to become active participants in the movement for gender equality. The speakers’ emphasis on accelerating action, breaking barriers, and creating equal opportunities served as a powerful reminder that achieving gender parity requires consistent effort, collaboration, and a commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable world for all. Polaris Bank’s dedication to these principles demonstrates its recognition of the vital role women play in driving social and economic progress.
