Stakeholders advocate empowering opportunities for women at Polaris Bank IWD webinar

STAKEHOLDERS at the Polaris Bank’s International Women’s Day (IWD) webinar has advocated for empoweriment opportunities for women.

With the theme, ‘Empowering Voices: Women Leading Change,’ the webinar offered a dynamic platform for insightful conversations.

The 2024 IWD theme, ‘Inspire Inclusion,’ recognises that despite progress made, women face significant obstacles to achieve equal participation in the economy.

Held at the ank’s Victoria Island, Lagos headquarters, the webinar featured a panel of experts who discussed various aspects of women’s empowerment and inclusivity.

The event witnessed participation from customers and staff alike. The two guest speakers, who focused on inclusion in the workplace and inclusive health, did a phenomenal job.

The two panelists drawn from diverse fields, delved into crucial topics such as self-esteem, mental wellness, workplace policies and the importance of inclusive infrastructure. They emphasised the need for collaborative efforts from all segments of society to support women in realising their aspirations.

Ms. Solape Akinpelu, CEO and co-founder of HerVest, a fintech company, highlighted the significance of inclusivity and called for concerted action to dismantle societal narratives that undermine women’s capabilities. She stressed that women are not helpless and advocated for proactive measures to counter subconscious biases.

On her part, Dr Ifeyinwa Nwakwesi, CEO of Healthy Living Services Nigeria Ltd., provided valuable health tips for women to balance their professional and family lives while prioritising their well-being.

Dr Nwakwesi underscored the pivotal role of women in maintaining family health and urged them to shield themselves from undue pressures.

Earlier in his opening remarks, Polaris Bank’s Managing Director/CEO, Mr Kayode Lawal, emphasised the indispensable contributions of women to societal progress and economic development.

He reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace culture that values diversity and empowers women to excel.

Reflecting on the global theme of IWD 2024, Lawal highlighted the importance of creating a culture where everyone feels valued and respected. He reiterated Polaris Bank’s dedication to providing a conducive work environment for its female workforce, free from biases and discrimination.

In her own contribution, Bukola Oluyadi who has oversight on sustainability at Polaris Bank, emphasised the importance of connecting with women in the workplace. According to her, when women feel appreciated and encouraged to bring their best to the table, it enhances their sense of value and contribution.

The webinar concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders to prioritise inclusivity and collaborate towards creating equitable opportunities for women in all spheres of life.

Polaris Bank was adjudged Nigeria’s Digital Bank of the Year in 2023, 2022 and 2021 in Business Day’s Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) awards.

Chima Nwokoji