Accra, March 17, GNA – InspireChange International has held a virtual webinar to commemorate World Speech Day, urging young people to use their voices purposefully to drive social change.
The webinar, held under the theme “Speak to Create: Understanding the Power of Your Voice,” brought together young people, emerging leaders and aspiring changemakers from diverse backgrounds.
It provided a platform for participants to reflect on the importance of communication in shaping ideas, influencing communities and contributing to inclusive development.
Opening the session, Ms Geraldine Afua Amaning, an Accredited Public Relations (APR) practitioner, highlighted the need for intentional and strategic communication.
“Speaking is easy, but speaking strategically creates change,” she said.
She explained that effective communication required understanding one’s audience, framing messages clearly and selecting appropriate platforms to maximise impact.
Ms Amaning noted that communication went beyond expression and must be seen as a tool for connection and influence.
Participants also examined barriers that affect whose voices are heard, including gender, background, geography and social status, and called for deliberate efforts to create space for underrepresented groups in decision-making processes.
In another presentation, Ms Isabella Tetteh Ahinakwa spoke on the topic “Finding your voice: From silence to significance,” and urged participants to overcome fear and self-doubt.
“Silence hides creativity, dreams and impact,” she said.She noted that many young people withheld their ideas due to fear of rejection or misunderstanding, stressing that meaningful contributions often begin with individuals who choose to speak despite uncertainty.
The webinar concluded with participants gaining practical insights on communicating with confidence and purpose in their schools, communities and advocacy engagements.InspireChange International said it would continue to implement initiatives aimed at empowering young people to contribute to building inclusive and responsive societies.
GNA