Living with autism as a child must be one of the heaviest weight on children living with the spectrum. Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the child’s developmental stages such as delayed speech and making eye contact. When a child is growing up, one needs to identify these changes and support the child to advance in each stage of growth. However, when there are delays, you need to seek professional and medical help.

Therapy sessions

Through structured educational programs and specialized therapies such as speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and sensory integration activities, children are given the tools they need to better navigate the world around them.

Signs and symptoms

According to specialists, some early signs parents should watch for include, limited eye contact, delayed speech or lack of babbling, not responding when their name is called, preference for playing alone, repetitive behaviours such as hand-flapping or lining up objects, strong reactions to certain sounds, textures, or lights. While these signs do not automatically mean a child has autism, professionals encourage parents to seek professional advice if they notice developmental concerns.

Support for neurodiversity

In Ghana, conversations about autism are gradually shifting from stigma to understanding. Schools, health professionals, and advocacy groups are working to ensure that families receive the information and support they need. Parents need to undergo counselling and therapy themselves to accept the child’s condition and to stop being in denial. Children on the spectrum should be included in social interactions to help them belong and to perform daily activities better.

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Gender Based Violence (GBV) is not openly discussed as it should be as compared to how many cases are reported globally. The rate at which young people and women are verbally, emotionally and physically abused is very wrong and needs to be thoroughly checked and curbed. A young woman in Uganda is aiming to solve this issues by beating a 100 young men by the end of 2026. But does violence end violence in perpertuity?

The statistics

According to research by Vanguard News, in Sub-Saharan Africa, studies across 25 countries estimate that about 45% of women have experienced some form of gender-based violence in all forms, thus, physical, sexual, psychological, or economic.

Causes

Some of the causes of gender based violence include, poverty, mistrust, substance abuse, low self esteem, illiteracy and so on. Poverty which is the major cause of abuse in most homes, is seen as a way to let out anger and frustration on the other parties involved. As for illiteracy, most people are ignorant of the abuse they are causing others because it is what they observed growing up.

Effects

Victims of gender based violence often feel deep sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in things they once enjoyed. They may constantly feel afraid, nervous, or unsafe, even when the danger is no longer present. Many survivors experience Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and trauma symptoms such as, flashbacks of the event and nightmares. Others deal with it by avoiding places or people that remind them of the abuse.

Solutions

In conclusion, gender-based violence affects both the mind and body. Psychologically, it can lead to trauma, depression, and anxiety. Physiologically, it can cause injuries, chronic health problems, and stress-related illnesses. To solve this, one needs to seek help from mentors and find a safe space where one can positively thrive.

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This year, women all over the world are convening again for the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70) from March 9 to 19. This UN conference brings together women’s rights advocates championing the cause of women for inclusion and equitable legal systems. International Women’s Day also falls on March 8 with the theme, “Give to Gain”. Globally, women will be celeberating the broken barriers and the shattered glass ceiling. However there are several gaps that need to be bridged in order to give women more access to legal support, equal rights and justice.

Women in cells

Joining spaces and dialogues on women inclusion and access to justice has made me appreciate the need for more focus on women’s participation in the decision-making process. More women are globally recorded to be accused of heinous crimes due to poverty and lack of proper information on their rights. Property rights and unemployment have led to more women engaging in sex work which make them end up in prison cells.

Access to funding

With more women venturing into businesses, the need for the conversation on access to funding is prevalent. The most important thing for businesses today is the right networks and cooperatives for funding. When women come together to pool resources togehter, they can gain rights to access loans and funds from investors.

Justice system

The legal system is failing women by not owning up to defending them properly in court. Rights, justice, and legal support all go hand in hand. And when the right support is put together to help women in solidarity, this will go a long way to helping them balance their care giving role for the larger family system. The discussions around rights, justice, and action for all women and girls cannot be had if the Commission on the Status of Women do not rise up to the occasion.

Legal framework

As conflicts escalate in the war regions, more women will be displcaed and there needs to be a legal framework that has spelt out policies that will support them. All parties are supposed to respect international human rights law and priotise protecting its citizen including women and girls, amongst all vulnerable groups.

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Did you know, according to the UN Women, that each year more than 2 million girls are subjected to Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)? However, after joining gender equality clubs, some young people are put in plays about the dangers of female genital mutilation and child marriage. Altogether, leading experts should discuss the topics that matter to people the most by solving the problems that exist like FGM. This is why every February 6 is dedicated to centering on survivors and meeting with changemakers in a single dialogue to end the practice completely.

Changemakers

Musicians, creators, influencers and actors should step up their game by using their networks and influence to sound the message of ending FGM completely. The African and global discourse on the topic should be collaborative and must utilise changemakers in setting the agenda straight.

Narrative

The possibilities of what the abolished practice of FGM can do for Africans in particular is the growth of young women into blossoming career women, contributing significantly to sustainable development. Empowering women and youth to grow their capacities will not come to fruition if traditions are not dynamic and some parts are abolished.

Repercussions

Life after FGM is rarely discussed. The damage and trauma does not end for these women and girls. Millions of women participate in a single dilemma of how their dignity has been replaced with barreness and sometimes infertilty.

Healing

The means to healing, protection, and holding perpetrators accountable is too much often justice denied. Healing means talking to therapists and having a community of survivors encouraging eachother and becoming reintegrated into society without fear or stigma.

Serve justice

Taking action to end FGM should not be wishy-washy but must take a practical approach. The question is not whether justice can be served, the question is how fast can it happen. There should be concrete solutions to ending the activities of perpetrators and educating them on the need to abolish the act.

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This year has gone by so fast, but one of my goals is to discuss and write about Sexual Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR). This discussion goes around topics like infertility, sexual hygiene, child marriages, and prevention of STI/AIDS. These topics are part of things to talk to young people and millennials about as they navigate their family lives. Young families are battling the traumas that come with these problems and they need to stay informed. Infertility in women can be described as the inability of women to conceive after a certain age, usually 35, and after a time period of having intercourse, usually after six months.

Advocacy

Not having information on your menstrual cycle and the health history of your family relating to childbirth can traumatise and frustrate you. There is a need for people to be exposed to SRHR discussions and advocacy, such as this post, for them to be at peace of mind and to know that they are not the only ones fighting these battles.

Causes

Unsafe abortion, incompatibility, and lack of knowledge on ovulation periods can cause infertility. Some people do not let their partners touch them during their ovulation period, and they could miss the fertility window for that. Others have had their wombs tampered with due to unsafe abortion. When it comes to infertility, some people even take medications to correct some defects in their reproductive system. Everyone’s story or the causes is different.

Healing

You need to seek medical attention and be patient with yourself. Some have had to wait six years. At the same time, others have changed partners and have been able to conceive in less than six months. The healing journey depends entirely on you as a woman. Do you need to be slow on yourself and avoid stress? Then do just that.

Fertility

IVF, Tests, and counselling are all remedies to increase your chances at child birth. Sometimes, finding a partner you are compatible with is the solution. Or sometimes, the man is even the problem. Find out what works for you as a couple, and you will be just fine. All the best to you, my ladies. Also, do not forget to learn and read about your condition and be prepared to go through the journey of recovery and self-discovery.

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As people, we experience several phases in our lives. The healing phase or stage is one of those. In every sphere of life, we go through experiences that leave us broken or unhealed. It is important that at this stage we take time to heal gloriously before taking any major steps in our next phase. The healing stage can come after so much grief or loss.

Dismantle silence

To break free from the shackles of some ill-bound lifestyles, one needs to dismantle the silence. UNICEF and WHO are both playing their roles in helping to create a safer, healthier world. However, individuals need to break the silence and engage in the everyday good life both for themselves and for those around them. With that, keeping silent can kill the little hope and fire we have in making the world a better place.

Digital health

Every platform is an opportunity to use to heal and digital platforms is one of them. The space is not just for scrolling or for trolls but for advocacy and building peace of mind. There is the need to fight for digital health justice.

Knowledge

It is important mostly for African women to have the knowledge and own their right to good health. Whether a professional or lay person, healing takes a process and knowing the role you play in the process is vital to your survival and thriving.

Health narrative

Advocacy is about turning lived experiences into life-saving choices. Having a bigger audience can help one shape the narrative of using their space to shape healthy life choices for oneself and for others. To take the right steps towards healing, it is important to shape the right narrative so that others can follow our blueprint.

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Let’s be honest for a second, most women are not taught about money. We were taught to save and to invest and not to build wealth. We were taught to play it safe to play it smart. But you need to know that more income, more confidence, more control. Here’s a fe tips women are not taught about money but should be concious about.

Financial struggle

Struggling financially is not a misfortune it is only teaching you to wake up and smell the coffeee. It means it is time to learn and unlearn money habits that you previously had as your habits. When you’re struggling, you need access, skills, and community.

Financial freedom

You should know that financial freedom isn’t luck but its learned. No one teaches us how money actually works. And so we end up spending more than we earn. You don’t need to be louder or stronger, you just need to be tougher.

Women-led community

A women-led community empowering women with high-income digital skills, mindset growth, and total transformation can help women to stop surviving and start living their lives. You don’t need permission or a seat at the table. You can stop surviving and start owning your life by joining a strong support system.

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Waking up a little earlier than planned, but the sunshine made it feel like a dream. Just a slow, beautiful Saturday filled with cozy corners, self-care, and a little cup of tea for the soul. I didn’t have to study because I had to. I studied because it felt nice to challenge my brain in a quiet, gentle way. No rush, no comparison, just learning something new for the sake of it. New year needs new knowledge right? People will say, “You’re so lucky, I wish I had your life.” But the truth? Luck didn’t build anything slow mornings did. Let’s delve into some tips to inject into your mornings to ignite your soft girl era energy.

Healthy breakfast inspo

It is such a blessing walking through life with kingdom minded women who keep their health in check. Tag your girls to start their day right. We all have the same 24 hours. What changes is what enters our bodies. A good greek yoghurt, granola, cereal meal, and some veggies to start the day, will keep you from starving and looking tired all day. Just having a yummy breakfast gives off good feminine energy.

No ashy lips

Choose your lippie shades of fresh glossy lip balm intentionally. Girly essentials that make ladies look soft and goddess comes in shine and color. From red, brown, pink, and nude coded lip gloss to bold lipsticks, never leave your lips dry. A shade of something beautiful shows people that a spark of goodness still exists.

Your kind of peace

January will bring you inner peace but you have to start earlier. Make silent power moves that turn you into a high value woman by prioritising peace over chaos. There is a reason why some women get commitment and others don’t. The classy woman is in love with the kind of peaceful aura which is even more motivating because you literally get rewarded by the universe with good energy and positive people.

Selfcare routine

This new winter wave of girly scent has arrived to ignite your feminine energy. Choose a skincare and self care routine that will leave you feeling healthy and clean. A warm hairstyle that fits your face will let you feel confident and sweet. I love me a side part with curls, it’s my signature hairstyle. Leg hair doesn’t stand a chance, this shouldn’t be just a shave routine but for selfcare.

Rich in all areas of life

Dior, Coco Chanel, Dolce and Gabana. Save money on products and quality skills you’ll actually use in 2026. Classy and smart, rich in mind gives off sweet vibes always. Men know it, successful women use it. But nobody talks about it. They know you’re powerful. They just hope you never realize it. These are psychological switches that instantly change how people treat you. Once you learn them, everything in your life begins to shift.

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The Newsroom Africa, organizers of the Digital Journalism Summit brought together journalists, climate advocates and content creators to champion the conversation on climate action for a sustainable future at the British Council. Topics ranging from ethical AI, digital influence, climate change, sustainable development, among others were discussed to enhance the use of digital channels to drive climate and social impact. Professionals such as Emefa Apawu, Ameyaw Debrah, Natalie Fort, Abena Soreno, Micheal Tsatsu Axolu, Etornam Kumashie, Miriam Uduack Mensah, led discussions centered around African storytelling through climate journalism.

Digital storytelling

As media professionals we have the ability to transform Africa by using our global platforms to tell stories that impact the world. Having the ability to make people care through one’s stories of hope and resilience is important. That fosters unity between Africa and the rest of the world and can help shape a future where we can all dream big while creating sustainability. Using local dialect and AI tools to educate rural folks can also foster actions that reduce pollution, a major cause of climate change in small communities.

World Sustainability Organization

Partners of the summit including World Sustainability Organization through its African representative, Natalie Fort, encouraged journalists and storytellers to use their platforms to advocate for climate action to earn renumeration from the organization as a form of support. According to her, the WSO supports young people who amplify their voices through digital channels for social media advocacy.

Final Remarks

In her remarks, the Barbados High Commissioner to Ghana, H.E Juliette Bynoe-Sutherland said, “All of you here are advocating for a bigger vision of ideas, imagination and influence. And I am here to support any effort around climate change.”

In proferring solutions to the climate justice in Ghana, Deputy CEO of the Forestry Commission, Mr Elikem Kotoko, charged changemakers at the event and across Africa to adopt a school in their communities where they can teach young people about the effects of pollution to imbue values neccessary for global citizenship participation among them.

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Women are good at telling their own stories from their point of view. No one can tell the circumstances around women survival and enconomic empowerment like women themselves. However, in their line of duty, women journalists and media personnel face brutal challenges as compared to their male counterparts. In a world where women are limited to ceratin roles only, women who tell bold stories through media channels are bound to be scarred but can overcome these challenges. Keep reading to find out how.

Success stories

There are numerous women journalists doing amazing work out there across the globe. Such people include parachute journalists and investigative journalists who go out of their way to report on corruption and displacement of people during wars. Young media women networks are growing and expanding as more women and girls are getting education and training to embark on their careers. Some start early careers as young as 19 year old leading content creators and podcasters in rural areas like Tamale in Ghana. Others tell the stories of teenage pregnancy menace in their communities.

Women stories

Stories like how climate action affects women and girls, gender based violence, maternal mortality rate, women land ownership, period poverty, obsteric fistula, youth unemployment, are among other issues affecting women which need much attention. Sometimes the women who dedicate their lives into throwing more light on these issues are being targeted and killed. What better way to address this challenge than to seek asylum in other countries. This is why most women journalists go into exile.

Feminist journalism

Women impact makers are not only telling stories but breaking grounds to bring other colleagues on board. Single mothers in most parts of the globe are ostracized and stigmatised and yet the men are not held as accountable. In most cases, women are not given as much financial support in their feminist journalism and missions when they can cause a ripple effect if given the needed support. That’s why sometimes it is neccessary to hold back on the news when we feel we are in danger or pass it on to another colleague to share it.

Community

Finding allies and women groups where community can be shared is important. These communities stand up for each other and protect the rights of their members in hard times. When under threat or attack, community is important because there will be a signal for others to come to your rescue. Having a large community can help so that you share locations and information of your whereabouts incase your area of assignment seem to be dangerous.

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