Catherine Sowu is the HR Manager in GSS Ghana. She joined the company in May 2014. Below she shares a few words about her experience at GSS, as well as advice to all women.

Before joining BMMI formally in May 2014, I assisted informally with matters regarding statutory requirements, regarding personnel and expat resettlement from 2012 to 2014.

Motivation and inspiration comes from my natural ability to work with others and have done so in various capacities, including volunteering in the United Kingdom for the Samaritans and Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB). I eventually worked for them in a senior management position.

Helping others achieve their goals is the greatest motivator there is.

Working in the HR space is challenging in itself, however women tend to do well in this field, but one must be fair and firm. I cannot say I have been faced with many challenges as a woman, and cultural flexibility is the norm for me as I am of mixed race and speak French and English and quite a few local Ghanaian dialects.

The best advice I have ever been given is to listen actively, and to solve problems, not to moan about them; and the best piece of advice I can give is to be proactive, interested and diligent.