Strategic influence key for Women Communicators — Georgina Asare Fiagbenu

Communications for Development Advocate and Partner at Africans Communicating Africa, Georgina Asare Fiagbenu, has encouraged women in communications to take bold steps toward owning their authority, shaping strategy, and building trusted leadership presence in today’s complex corporate environment. She made this call during the 2026 Women in PR International Women’s Day webinar.

Held under the theme “Authority, Strategic Influence and Executive Presence: Establishing Credibility and Influence in Organizational Leadership,” the virtual event brought together communications professionals from across Ghana and beyond to explore how women can strengthen their leadership visibility and impact within organizations.

Contributing to the discussion, Georgina emphasized that modern communicators must move beyond technical expertise to become value-driven strategic partners within their organizations.

She noted that influence in today’s corporate environment requires a deep understanding of business priorities and a deliberate contribution to enterprise-wide strategy.

“Corporate authority is having the credibility, trust, and insights needed to perform your role effectively and impact the bottom line,” she said.

She added that communicators seeking to strengthen their authority must develop clear strategic plans and intentionally position themselves as trusted advisors within leadership teams.

According to her, credibility grows when professionals demonstrate strong analytical thinking, business acumen, and the ability to align communications strategies with broader organizational goals.

Georgina also encouraged young and mid-career women in communications to invest in continuous learning, sharpen their strategic planning skills, and build meaningful mentorship relationships.

She stressed that forming strong networks within and outside organizations is essential for turning ideas into sustainable action.

Speaking on the importance of building networks beyond formal professional circles, she noted that relationships and collaboration can play a significant role in influencing positive social change.

She shared examples of initiatives she has helped establish to encourage civic responsibility and shape narratives about Africa, including the Timekeeping Project, which is helping to address the chronic lateness in Ghana and Africans Communicating Africa, a platform aimed at amplifying authentic African stories and perspectives

The session also featured keynote remarks from Moliehi Molekoa, Managing Director of Magna Carta, alongside contributions from Phoebe Pappoe, Strategic PR and Communications Consultant.

The keynote speaker encouraged women in public relations to step confidently into leadership spaces and position themselves as strategic contributors within their organizations.

She noted that women’s leadership is not only a social priority but also an economic opportunity for the continent.

She therefore urged women to develop their voice, take initiative and claim their place at decision-making tables.

“Women in PR have the power to shape narratives, protect reputations and influence change. We must therefore step forward with confidence and use our voices to drive impact,” she said.

The interactive webinar attracted a diverse audience of public relations and communications professionals who gained practical insights into building executive presence.

The webinar forms part of Women in PR Ghana’s ongoing efforts to support and empower women in the communications profession by creating opportunities for learning, mentorship, and leadership development.