Female leaders, advocates, and organizations across the globe are reflecting on the progress made toward gender equality while renewing commitments to empower women and girls. In Cameroon, one of the voices championing this mission is Evelyn Shey Ngala, a senior human resources professional and leadership coach who is also President of the MTN Women Development Program.
This year’s observance comes under the United Nations theme “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls.” The theme calls for tangible and measurable steps toward ensuring equal rights, stronger legal protections, and fair opportunities for women worldwide.
Accompanied by the slogan “Give to Gain,” the message emphasizes that awareness alone is not enough, meaningful policies, leadership commitment, and institutional action are essential to dismantle systemic barriers affecting women and girls.
Certificate as Chief Human Resources Program Officer.Speaking in recognition of the international womens Day event, Evelyn Shey Ngala highlighted the importance of empowering women through leadership development, education, and professional opportunities. As President of the MTN Women Development Program, she has continued to advocate for inclusive workplaces and stronger networks that support women’s growth in professional environments.
“Investing in women is investing in the future,” Ngala noted in her message marking the occasion. “When women are empowered to lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully, organizations become stronger and communities prosper.”
Her advocacy for women’s advancement is also reflected in her own professional journey. Recently, she earned a Chief Human Resources Program Officer Certification from the Chartered Human Resource Management Professional (CHRMP) Institute receiving a certificate of achievement that further strengthens her expertise in strategic human resources leadership.
Her work focuses on mentoring professionals, supporting women’s leadership development, and promoting equitable opportunities within organizations. Through coaching and corporate engagement, she encourages women to develop confidence, acquire digital and leadership skills, and take active roles in shaping the future of work.
Across Africa and around the world, women are increasingly driving change in sectors such as technology, business, governance, healthcare, and community development. According to global development advocates, ensuring that women have access to education, leadership platforms, and economic resources is essential for sustainable growth.
She further explained that International Women’s Day serves not only as a celebration of achievements but also as a reminder of the challenges that remain. Women in many parts of the world continue to face barriers related to leadership representation, workplace equity, and access to economic opportunities.
For Evelyn Shey Ngala, addressing these challenges requires collaboration and collective support among women themselves. She stresses the importance of mentorship and professional networks that allow women to share experiences, build confidence, and inspire the next generation of leaders.
“As women, we must continue to uplift one another,” she said. “Through mentorship, collaboration, and shared learning, we can create pathways that help more women reach leadership positions.”
She noted that organizations also play a crucial role in advancing gender equality. Explaining further she said studies have consistently shown that companies that invest in women’s leadership benefit from higher innovation, stronger employee engagement, and improved long-term performance.
As the world commemorates International Women’s Day 2026, Ngala’s message is one of optimism and action. She continues to advocate for inclusive workplaces, supportive leadership, and opportunities that allow every woman and girl to thrive. “Let us continue to champion equality, inspire change, and build a future where every woman has the opportunity to lead and succeed,” she said.
Her message echoes the broader spirit of International Women’s Day, stating categorically that when women rise, communities grow stronger, organizations succeed, and nations move forward.
This is a very professional approach towards women empowerment, justice, and supportive leadership.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations Evelyn Shey Ngala.
We need your Human Resource expertise to create that inclusive workspace for women in Cameroon.