APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the leading pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, believes there is a strong advocacy for building powerful African women on a continent filled with gender disparity and inequality.

Although some African countries have made tremendous progress driving toward gender parity in some areas, gender inequality in the workplace remains high across the continent. Women account for more than 50% of Africa’s combined population and are often referred to as “a powerful untapped economic force.”

By mentoring and building one girl boss at a time, APO Group employs more than 40 talented African women across the continent, bringing with them a rich tapestry of diversity and uniqueness in their traditions and cultures.

Breaking the bias that comes with being an African woman, through the years APO Group has steered many young women in their career paths and made a difference in their lives by investing in their capabilities and honing in on their talents.

One such dedicated success story is that of Tracy Walakira who has been with the company for the past seven years. Head hunted by APO Group Founder and Chairman, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, whilst she was still studying and assisting an international advocacy organisation, Tracy began as a project manager hired to bring on board multinational online content partners ranging from international organisations operating across Africa, to government ministries in all 54 African countries.

Whilst still under the tutelage of Pompigne-Mognard, Tracy moved onto larger global clients before taking on the position of Senior Project Manager and then being promoted to Senior Account Manager. She now holds the role of Account Director. Her passion and determination set her apart and this was recognised and advanced through the guidance of the APO Group.

Believing in the power that comes with being an African woman defying the odds, Tracy is one of many who began as juniors and through mentoring and direction moved onto senior management positions. Together these women are a force to be reckoned with as they trailblaze through their careers.

Speaking about their thoughts on International Women’s Day, we spoke to a few women at APO Group about what the day meant to them.

Lynne Krawchuk, Vice President, Digital, PR and Media Relations (South Africa):

“It is about celebrating the power of women. It shines a spotlight on the many inspirational, supportive, and motivational stories which ultimately empower us, as women and girls, to achieve our full potential. I truly believe that when women support each other incredible things happen. I am passionate about developing women across Africa.

Rania ElRafie, Group Account Director (Egypt):

“International Women’s Day is a day of celebrating, empowering, and advocating women from all walks of life to uplift each other and spread positive energy.  It is an opportunity to recognise the impact of all women, inspire those who need support and be appreciative to all the women who strived for gender equality even before we were born.”

Tracy Walakira, Account Director (Uganda):

“For me International Women’s Day is a reminder to acknowledge and celebrate one another’s achievements as women no matter what status, background, or wherever we are in the world.

Women globally continue to be a great and reliable support for change, for families, communities, and a strong pillar for the continuity of great nations. This day is a great reminder to take a moment, recognise and embrace the important role women play at all levels: women in leadership, women entrepreneurs, women in business, women in energy, mothers, daughters, friends, etc., – so that young girls all around the world can look at that celebrated woman and be inspired.”

APO Group Founder and Chairman, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard (www.Pompigne-Mognard.com) said: “I am so privileged to have the opportunity to work and see the progress of the talented women at APO Group. While we believe that the accomplishments of these women should be celebrated all year long, International Women’s Day is an important opportunity to recognise and increase the visibility and uplift female voices in the workplace. We actively promote the growth of our women in their professional lives, working to create a place where creativity and growth can thrive for all.”