OVH Marks Int’l Women’s Day at Learning Series

In commemorating the International Women’s Day, a leading energy company, OVH Energy made the global theme of ‘Press for Progress’ its central focus during the monthly learning and development series that took place at its headquarters in Marine Beach, Apapa, recently.

The monthly series was designed for staff for the purpose of knowledge sharing and skills development. However, the last edition was extended to some retailers and a handful of friends. The CEO, Entod Marketing, Iquo Ukoh was the facilitator for the March edition which was kick-started by some opening remarks by the CEO, OVH Energy, Huub Stokman.

Stokman observed that the group exercise that preceded the training is one that usually starts off as chaotic but with interesting outcomes. He urged his listeners not to focus too much on gender but on skills and experience in order for them to make significant progress in their careers.

“I will not promote anyone based on gender. You have to earn it,’’ he said.

Understandably, the programme was restricted to women only. However, a few men were allowed to participate in the panel discussions where their insights were needed. Once they had done their part, they were expected to leave the training room for the women.

The facilitator, Ukoh offered very practical advice to the women on work-life balance. Given her years of experience as a corporate woman in a lead position at a multinational organisation, Ukoh understood the challenges of contemporary women who are ambitious in their careers. Hence, she cited her personal experiences while explaining to her audience how to keep their jobs and homes.