By Hawa Dolley
MONROVIA, Oct. 21 (LINA) —Managing Director of Ecobank Liberia Salamata Diallo has urged girls and young women not to disqualify themselves from opportunities because they lack confidence or believe they do not meet every requirement.
Diallo said women must be willing to take risks, apply for opportunities, and trust their ability to learn, noting that waiting until they feel completely qualified could cause them to miss important career opportunities.
Speaking at the “SHE IS THE WAY” One-Day Girls’ Mentorship Program, sponsored by the MacDella Cooper Foundation, she drew from her professional experience to explain how self-doubt can prevent women from advancing in their careers.
She recalled that earlier in her career, she sometimes declined to apply for jobs because she did not meet all the qualifications listed in the job descriptions.
However, she observed that some of her colleagues who met fewer requirements were willing to apply and eventually secured the positions.
The experience, she said, taught her that women should not reject themselves before employers or other decision-makers have had the opportunity to assess their abilities.
“You do not need to be perfect at the job to take it. We learn as we go,” Diallo said.
She acknowledged that fear and uncertainty are natural, including among women who have achieved significant professional success, but stressed that these feelings should not determine their decisions.
According to Diallo, courage means taking action despite fear rather than waiting for uncertainty to disappear.
She encouraged girls to prepare themselves through education, discipline, curiosity, and the development of communication and technological skills so they can take advantage of opportunities when they arise.
Diallo also urged young women to speak confidently, ask questions, and take their place in spaces where decisions are made, including professional and leadership settings.
She emphasized that a person’s current circumstances should not determine their future, encouraging girls facing financial difficulties, family challenges, or personal setbacks to remain committed to their ambitions.
“Your current circumstances do not have the authority to write the final chapter of your life,” she said.
The Ecobank Liberia Managing Director further called on successful women to mentor younger girls, recommend them for opportunities, share their experiences, and help others advance.
She said women’s achievements become more meaningful when they create opportunities for others, adding that girls should aspire not only to succeed but also to help other women reach their potential.
Diallo urged participants to prepare themselves, act courageously, and use their voices as they pursue their ambitions.