The attention given to administrative professionals in Africa was notable last week, following the official establishment of the African Institute of Personal and Executive Assistants (AIPEA), a major project introduced at the 2025 PA Conference.
Hosted on July 17th and 18th at the Labadi Beach Hotel, the fifth edition of the conference represented its largest event to date, bringing together more than 200 participants from various parts of Ghana under the theme“Growth for Cross-Border Relevance.”
The annual conference, for the first time, was expanded to last two days, providing opportunities for more in-depth interactions, focused workshops, and increased regional cooperation.
The historic debut of AIPEA occurred on the first day of the conference, after an uplifting keynote speech delivered by Professor Robert Ebo Hinson, a visiting professor at the University of Johannesburg and a recent addition to the AIPEA Governing Council. Professor Hinson formally inaugurated the institute, referring to it as a "much-needed structural foundation for a field vital to organizational achievement."
At the inauguration event, Maame Ekua Gaisey, Managing Partner of FiveSixFive Ltd, highlighted the institute's dedication to supporting administrative professionals throughout Africa: "We will assist them via a range of focused initiatives, such as seminars, training sessions, and, naturally, our key annual conference. Our aim is to raise their position to that of strategic executive collaborators rather than merely task-oriented individuals within their companies."
She further mentioned that AIPEA would implement an open membership system to include assistants at every career level and stage.
On the first day of the conference, a series of knowledgeable speakers shared valuable insights on the changing responsibilities of administrative professionals. Professor Robert Ebo Hinson kicked off the event with his talk titled “Building a Corporate Image from the Unseen Seat,” focusing on the importance of visibility and impact. Bunmi Pratt, an esteemed HR specialist, then presented on “Managing the Multi-Dimensional Needs of an International Executive,” discussing the various skills needed by modern assistants. Consultant Kojo Amissah motivated attendees with his session “Positioning the PA/EA for Global Appeal,” while influential leader Papa Arkhurst addressed the topic “Public Speaking: A Relevant Cross-Border Skill for Success.”
On the second day, the conference continued to build on its energy with discussions centered around career advancement and personal wellness. Nixon Amoah-Awuah, the Head of HR at Ecobank Ghana PLC, provided an in-depth look at "The Career Path of Personal and Executive Assistants," inspiring attendees to think about future development. Dr. May Cullen Wulff-Caesar, a clinical psychologist, covered essential issues in her session titled "Mental Health and Resilience for the Administrative Professional."
The day included a forward-thinking panel conversation about the future of the field, as well as an interactive technology workshop conducted by Jacques Yannick Amatcha on "Utilizing AI tools to enhance administrative productivity."
The conference's influence was quickly recognized by attendees: Agatha Linda Abbey, Executive Assistant, stated: "This event completely changed how I perceive my role. The speakers didn't just inspire, they provided us with tools. I now see myself as a value generator, not merely a support position. Thank you to AIPEA, now PAs have a professional organization that is truly ours."
Pilate Dapaah, a banking assistant, remarked: “The discussion about cross-border skills broadened my perspective on global prospects. I am now going to explore virtual assistant roles throughout Africa.”
Nancy Boye, a Senior Administrative Officer, stated: “The technology seminar was a turning point. I am excited to begin using some of the AI tools we discovered and witness the impact it will have on my time management and communication.”
Building upon the achievements of this year's event, Maame Gaisey announced intentions to broaden the conference's reach throughout the continent. "We're thrilled to invite our neighbors, either online or face-to-face. The AIPEA is not solely for Ghana; it serves as a continental center for enhancing the profession of executive, strategic, and personal assistants."
Bold actions at the 2025 PA Conference have ushered in a new chapter for Africa's personal and executive assistants, characterized by greater recognition, professionalism, and inclusion.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.Syndigate.info).