PURPOSE:
In response to the pressing need for more confident, skilled, and purpose-driven midwives in Ghana, I launched a mentorship program in 2020 for midwifery students, as well as new midwifery graduates. The program is a 6-month-long one that aims to bridge gaps in confidence, professional development, and career guidance areas often overlooked in traditional training. My goal is to empower the next generation of midwives by providing holistic support that extends beyond the classroom.

DISCUSSION:
Mentorship plays a crucial role in shaping competent, motivated healthcare providers. In Ghana, where systemic challenges such as inconsistent training quality, limited clinical exposure, and workforce attrition persist, mentorship can serve as a powerful retention and empowerment tool. Through guided coaching, peer support, and role modelling, mentees gain the confidence to pursue leadership roles, further education, and innovative career paths. Since its launch, the mentorship program has helped dozens of mentees advance, some now work internationally, others are pursuing degrees or launching midwife-led businesses, building a strong pipeline of skilled midwives.

EVIDENCE WHERE RELEVANT:
Research shows that mentorship enhances retention, clinical competence, and leadership development in nursing and midwifery Bradford et al. (2022); (Wissemann et al., 2022). In low-resource settings like Ghana, it is particularly valuable for supporting transitions from education to practice and fostering resilience in the workforce (Asamani et al., 2019). WHO’s 2021 State of the World’s Midwifery report underscores the urgent need for investment in midwifery education, including mentorship, to address global shortages and improve maternal and newborn outcomes (Nove et al., 2021).

KEY MESSAGE:
Mentorship is a game-changing strategy for building a stronger midwifery workforce in Ghana and beyond. By supporting midwives with guidance, confidence-building, and career coaching, we strengthen the profession and advance the goal of a competent, skilled workforce. Poster session 3 (Group B)