At Banko Women Organization, we often say it’s the people who make the place. Dorcas Achiaa, our supervisor and secretary, is one of those people. Her journey — from a small village to being a pillar of BWO — is one of resilience, warmth, and deep dedication. We sat down with Dorcas to learn more about her life, her work, and what inspires her every day.

Tell us a little about yourself

My name is Dorcas Achiaa. I come from a small village called Akrofoso. I grew up with my mum, dad, and three brothers. My dad passed away about four years ago, but he had already been sick since I was in primary school. So my mum took care of us on her own.

Because of that, I helped a lot — with selling and on the farm — both before and after school. Despite all the ups and downs, I was able to finish basic and senior high school. During SHS, I was still selling rice and oil for my mum. It wasn’t easy, but we did our best. One of our aunts came to take one of my brothers in, which helped a bit.

Being the only girl wasn’t easy — the work and taking care of my dad was a lot. But I learned a lot from that journey.

What did that experience give you?

Motivation, strength, perseverance, and determination.

How did you get involved with BWO?

After SHS, I was looking for a job. A teacher in the village told me about a guesthouse in Banko that was hiring. That’s how I started working at Moon&Star in 2014 until 2018. The owner, Pat, and I became more than coworkers — we became family. I learned a lot, not just skills, but also about love and affection. I became an “auntie” to her children, Lucy and Tetey.

I didn’t know aunties could be like that — with no blood ties.

I left when I got into nursing school, but I always returned during vacations or weekends.

What did you do before officially joining BWO?

After nursing school, I started selling slippers and bags. Around that time, Moon&Star was transitioning into BWO. I’ve always loved helping the community, and when BWO needed support, I stepped in as supervisor and secretary.

What do you enjoy most about your work at BWO?

When I’m able to serve the girls — whether it’s training, listening, or helping them grow — that’s what I enjoy most. And I love being part of the work that helps move the organization forward.

What’s the biggest challenge?

Understanding the girls and sometimes even the staff. Girls will be girls — there’s occasional drama!

What makes BWO different from other organizations?

We really understand our people. We don’t push foreign ideas; we empower women with what they need. I think all the extra classes, the care, and the knowledge we provide really makes us stand out.

What’s your favorite BWO memory?

When the girls were able to make kaba and slit all by themselves — that was such a proud moment.

How has working at BWO impacted your life?

Can’t we just show Mickey’s video? Since I talked a lot about this in the video. Of course we can, Aunty Dorcas;) In the following YouTube video you can see aunty Dorcas and Pat talking about their lives and a lot about Banko Women Organization.

Getting to Know Dorcas

What do you love doing when you’re not working?

On my off days, I like to pray, read, sing, and clean. I’m also a deaconess in Fire Revival Prayer Ministry International. It takes a lot of time — I also teach the children’s ministry. And I help a lot at family gatherings; my family knows I work hard.

Are you a morning or evening person?

Definitely a morning person — I like to get things done early.

What’s something small that makes your day better?

When I complete my tasks for the day.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Keep moving. Be strong and determined. Do more.

How do you relax?

I go on my phone. I pray. I sing.

What’s the last show you enjoyed?

Hand on Dream — it’s a Philippian show.

Do you have a hidden talent?

I wouldn’t know!

(But let’s be honest—if you ask anyone at BWO, they’d say Dorcas’ hidden talent is connection. With her sense of humor and refreshingly honest way of speaking, she knows exactly how to make people feel at ease. Whether it’s making someone laugh or getting them to open up, she just has that gift. And when it comes to kids? She absolutely lights up—playing games, telling stories, or organizing a cozy sleepover, she’s in her element.)

What’s something that always makes you laugh?

A lot! I like laughing and joking.

Looking Ahead

What kind of change would you love to see in the community?

I want to see women become more independent and able to stand on their own. That would reduce the pressure they face. It’s not easy always asking for help or waiting on men.

How do you think BWO contributes to that change?

By providing training, extra classes, and job opportunities — we’re giving women the tools to build their own future.

Join Us

Dorcas’ story is a beautiful example of growth, resilience, and the power of community. At BWO, we’re proud to have her as a guiding presence — for our team, our students, and our mission.

Want to be part of this change?
Whether through volunteering, supporting our programs, or simply sharing our story — every bit of involvement helps us continue building a stronger, more equal future for women in Ghana.

👉 Learn more about how you can get involved.