The Citation of Honour read: “This citation is presented to you by the Female Empowerment and Advocacy for Development (FEAD) and its partners as a sincere appreciation for your outstanding contribution as a woman who inspires other women and girls to achieve more.
“We appreciate your incredible accomplishments and dedication towards the empowerment of other women.”
It continued, “Through your ‘Beautiful Smiles’ project, you are revolutionizing education in the Upper West Region of Ghana, providing practical skills training and catalyzing rural development.
“As a mentor and assessor, you tirelessly advocate for the youth, ensuring they have the tools and opportunities to thrive.”
The Citation concluded: “Your story is an inspiring testament to the transformative power of passion and dedication. Thank you, Maria, for your invaluable contribution to education, entrepreneurship, and rural empowerment.”
Maria’s journey is one of resilience, passion, and unwavering commitment to creating positive change in society for the prosperity of all.
As an industrial and organizational psychologist, she possesses a unique understanding of human behaviour and organizational dynamics, which she has leveraged to drive impactful initiatives aimed at uplifting marginalized communities and fostering sustainable development.
Through Mara Foods, Maria has championed initiatives to promote healthy nutrition, food security, economic empowerment, and agricultural innovation in rural areas, empowering local farmers and producers to thrive in a rapidly evolving market landscape.
Her Mara Closet, on the other hand, serves as a platform for empowering women, girls and other individuals through entrepreneurship, harnessing talents and creativity in producing modern fashion with a blend of local trends.
In addition to her entrepreneurial ventures, Maria has been a staunch advocate for women’s rights and gender equality, using her leverage to amplify the voices of women and girls, particularly those living in rural and underserved communities.
As the Upper West Regional Coordinator of the Northern Development Authority (NDA), she has spearheaded initiatives that promote inclusive growth and development in the region, leveraging her expertise and influence to address pressing challenges and create opportunities for marginalized communities.
As she accepted the prestigious honour from FEAD at the HerStory summit, Maria expressed her profound gratitude and dedication to the cause of women empowerment and rural development.
“I am deeply humbled and honoured to receive this recognition, but the real credit belongs to the countless women and men who have worked tirelessly alongside me to make our vision a reality.
“Together, we will continue to strive for a future where every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances,” she humbly remarked.
Indeed, Maria Johana Yuorpor’s achievement is not only a testament to the transformative power of compassion, courage, and commitment, but it also serves as an inspiration and reminder of the profound impact that an individual can have in shaping a brighter, more equitable future for generations to come.