The First Deputy Managing Director of Consolidated Bank Ghana (CBG), Sheila Azuntaba, has called for a redefinition of leadership in today’s rapidly changing world, emphasizing that effective leadership is no longer centered on authority and command but on influence, collaboration, and empathy.
Speaking at the 2026 Annual National Summit of the Ghana Chapter of the Young African Women Congress Network in Accra, Ms. Azuntaba urged young women to embrace a modern leadership mindset that prioritizes relationship-building, inclusiveness, and positive impact.
According to her, the most successful leaders today are not necessarily those who occupy the highest positions but those who can inspire others, foster collaboration, and build strong partnerships that drive meaningful change.
“Leadership in today’s world is no longer about authority and giving orders. It is about influence, collaboration, and empathy,” she stated, highlighting the need for leaders to connect with people, understand their needs, and work collectively towards shared goals.
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The summit, held under the theme “The Next Generation of African Women: Driving Innovation and Redefining Leadership,” brought together accomplished women from diverse professional backgrounds to mentor, inspire, and empower the next generation of female leaders.
Addressing participants, Ms. Azuntaba encouraged young women to take full advantage of digital platforms and networking opportunities to enhance their visibility and expand their professional circles.
She noted that social media has become a powerful tool for personal and career development when used strategically.
She stressed the importance of being intentional about building a strong personal brand, advising young women not to wait to be discovered but to actively create opportunities for themselves.
“Visibility matters,” she emphasized, explaining that many opportunities arise when individuals position themselves effectively and make their skills, achievements, and aspirations known to the right audiences.
Ms. Azuntaba further encouraged participants to invest in their personal growth by attending conferences, summits, and professional events where they can interact with experienced professionals, gain new insights, and build valuable networks.
She underscored that continuous learning, strategic networking, and personal development are essential ingredients for success in today’s competitive environment.
Her remarks resonated strongly with attendees, many of whom viewed her message as a timely reminder that leadership is evolving and that young women must be prepared to lead with confidence, authenticity, and purpose.
The summit served as an important platform for dialogue, mentorship, and empowerment, reinforcing the critical role young African women play in driving innovation, shaping communities, and redefining leadership across the continent.
