Conference Agenda
GCHRA25 – Agenda
Overview
| Event Name: | THE GLOBAL CONFERENCE ON HUMAN RESOURCES IN AFRICA (GCHRA) 2025 | |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | Event Date: | August 13th – 16th, 2025 |
| 1 | Location: | Kempinski Hotel, Gold Coast City, Accra |
| 2 | Time: | 9:30am - 5pm - each day |
| 3 | Rego: | 8:30am - 9:30am |
| 4 | Room: | Main stage |
| 5 | Theme: | Leveraging Technologies to Enhance Workforce Productivity and Optimize Efficiency |
Conference Day 1
| Start | End | Length | Slot | Session Title | Session descriptor | SPEAKER NAME | SPEAKER TITLE | SPEAKER STATUS | Expereince | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 08:30:00 | 09:30:00 | 01:00:00 | 1hr | Registration, Coffee & Networking | In - Person | In Person | |||
| 1 | 09:31:00 | 09:39:00 | 00:08:00 | 8 mins | Welcome note from MCs | - Cynthia Mawulawoe Kodowu \n- Benjamin Owusu Ansah | - Founder, HR Network Africa \n- Co-Founder, SpeakWell International | In - Person | Hybrid | |
| 2 | 09:42:00 | 09:52:00 | 00:10:00 | 10 mins | Opening remarks: Embracing Digital Transformation for Africa’s Workforce | Leading the Charge for Inclusive Growth, Innovation & Sustainable Jobs. | Hon. Dr. Abdul- Rashid Hassan Pelpuo | Minister for Labour, Jobs and Employment - Ghana | In - Person | Hybrid |
| 3 | 09:56:00 | 10:04:00 | 00:08:00 | 8 mins | Partner remarks: Reaffirming our Commitment | SHRM and GCHRA uniting expertise, innovation, and shared values to shape the future of work in Africa. | Johnny C. Taylor, Jr. | President & CEO, SHRM | In - Person | Hybrid |
| 4 | 10:07:00 | 10:42:00 | 00:35:00 | 35 mins | Keynote: The Age of Convergence: How Technology Is Shaping the Future of HR | In a rapidly evolving world of business transformation, artificial intelligence, and workforce change, HR stands at the epicenter of innovation.\nThis session explores how generative AI, shifting labor markets, and the rise of a services economy are redefining the role of HR across every domain from talent acquisition to total rewards.\nIn response, HR becomes a central strategic driver, responsible for navigating a complex, fluid landscape of skills gaps, employee expectations, and organizational agility. | Andy Biladeau | Chief Transformation Officer, SHRM | In - Person | Hybrid |
| 5 | 10:45:00 | 11:10:00 | 00:25:00 | 25 mins | Research spotlight: The pulse of HR in Africa | Whether you're leading HR in an African market or seeking to better understand this dynamic region, you’ll walk away with:\n- A regional pulse check on key HR trends and benchmarks\n- Insights into emerging priorities for people leaders in Africa\n- Actionable strategies to align your people programs with market realities | Olusegun Mojeed | Vice President, AHRC | In - Person | Hybrid |
| 6 | 11:13:00 | 11:38:00 | 00:25:00 | 25 mins | WELLBEING & NETWORK BREAK | In Person | ||||
| 7 | 11:42:00 | 12:27:00 | 00:45:00 | 45 mins | Google or Power house of HR\nExample - Case study - People First: How Cassava’s HR Has Leverage Technology and Globalization to Empower their Workforce | ??? | In - Person | Hybrid | ||
| 8 | 12:59:00 | 13:49:00 | 00:50:00 | 50 mins | HR Huddle: Navigating Change & Redesigning the Employee Experience | In this interactive workshop, HR leaders will come together to tackle two of today’s most urgent challenges: leading change through digital disruption and reimagining the employee experience with technology.\n\nThrough guided discussion and peer sharing, we’ll explore how to build change-ready cultures, adopt agile mindsets, and harness HR tech to create meaningful, human-centered experiences at work.\n\nCome ready to share, learn, and leave with fresh ideas to shape the future of work in your organization. | Deon de Swardt | \nManaging Partner\nAfrica People Advisory Group | In - Person | in Person |
| 9 | 13:53:00 | 14:53:00 | 01:00:00 | 60 mins | LUNCH & NETWORKING | In - Person | ||||
| 10 | 14:54:00 | 14:56:00 | 00:02:00 | 2 mins | ** MC to welcome everyone back, intro next session | In - Person | Hybrid | |||
| 11 | 14:57:00 | 15:47:00 | 00:50:00 | 50 mins | Panel: Women in HR Tech: Real Talk, Real Impact | Join a powerhouse panel of women driving innovation at the intersection of HR and technology across Africa. In this candid conversation, leaders will share their lived experiences — the wins, the barriers, and the bold moves behind their journeys.\n\nFrom breaking through bias to building inclusive tech, we’ll explore how women in HR tech are shaping the future of work with authenticity, resilience, and impact. Expect real talk, practical insights, and inspiration to lead with purpose in a fast-changing landscape. | FACILITATOR\n- Dr. Sherron Carrion\nPANEL\n- Dr. Najat El Mahdy\n- Hilda Nimo-Tieku\n- Oluwatobi Blessing Olayiwola | FACILITATOR\n- Global Strategist and Consultant\nPANEL\n- Qatar HR Forum, CIPD\n- CEO, Jobberman Ghana\n- Manager, AI and Data, Deliotte | In - Person | Hybrid |
| 12 | 16:15:00 | 16:40:00 | 00:25:00 | 25 mins | WELLBEING & NETWORK BREAK | In Person | In Person | |||
| 13 | 16:45:00 | 17:35:00 | 00:50:00 | 50 mins | Fishbowl: Unfiltered Conversations on the Future of HR in Africa | As we wrap up the conference for day 1, we’re making space for the conversations we haven’t had yet — but need to. This interactive fishbowl session invites HR leaders and subject matter experts to speak candidly about the uncomfortable truths, persistent challenges, and unspoken tensions shaping the future of work in Africa.\n\nFrom systemic barriers and leadership gaps to equity, burnout, and cultural nuance, no topic is off limits. Expect an honest, inclusive, and brave dialogue — with rotating seats, diverse voices, and an open floor for real talk.\n\nCome ready to listen, challenge, and contribute. This is our collective moment to move beyond the buzzwords and into action. | FACILITATOR\n- Cynthia Mawulawoe Kodowu \nFISHBOWL\n- Emily M. Dickens\n- Jeff Mac Boham\n- Jocelyne Uwamahoro\n- Adetoun Akinsunmi | FACILITATOR\n- Founder, HR Network Africa \nFISHBOWL\n- Chief of Staff, SHRM\n- Research, Learning & Advisory Board Member, GCHRA\n- President of RHRMO and Director of HR, Rwanda Energy Group\n- Chief of Staff, SeamlessHR | in Person | |
| 14 | 17:36:00 | 17:40:00 | 00:04:00 | 4 mins | Day 1 closing remarks from MCs | Cynthia | in Person | |||
| 15 | 17:41:00 | 18:41:00 | 01:00:00 | 60 mins | HAPPY HOUR | In Person | In Person |
Conference Day 2
| Start | End | Length | Slot | Session Title | Session descriptor | SPEAKER NAME | SPEAKER TITLE | SPEAKER STATUS | Expereince | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 08:30:00 | 09:30:00 | 01:00:00 | 1hr | Registration, Coffee & Networking | In - Person | In Person | |||
| 1 | 09:31:00 | 09:39:00 | 00:08:00 | 8 mins | Welcome note from MCs & recap of day 1 | - Cynthia Mawulawoe Kodowu \n- Benjamin Owusu Ansah | - Founder, HR Network Africa \n- Co-Founder, SpeakWell International | In - Person | Hybrid | |
| 2 | 09:41:00 | 09:47:00 | 00:06:00 | 6 mins | Opening remarks: Advancing HR Excellence in Africa | Setting standards, ensuring sustainability, and driving global competitiveness | Dr. Francis Eduku | CEO, CIHRM | In - Person | Hybrid |
| 3 | 09:51:00 | 10:36:00 | 00:45:00 | 45 mins | A Candid Conversation with the C-Suite: Johnny & Jocelyne in Dialogue | In this open and honest conversation, Johnny (CEO) and Jocelyne (CHRO) come together to explore the evolving relationship between HR and executive leadership. Together, they’ll unpack what it really takes for HR to earn — and own — a strategic seat at the table.\n\nFrom aligning on business priorities to building a compelling case for workforce investment, Johnny and Jocelyne will share firsthand insights on how trust, influence, and partnership between HR and the C-suite can drive real organizational impact.\n\nExpect practical takeaways, thoughtful reflection, and a refreshingly candid take on leading together in today’s world of work. | - Johnny C. Taylor, Jr.\n- Jocelyne Uwamahoro | - President & CEO, SHRM\n- President of RHRMO and Director of HR, Rwanda Energy Group | In - Person | Hybrid |
| 4 | 10:40:00 | 11:15:00 | 00:35:00 | 35 mins | Research spotlight: Workforce Management - Actionable Insights from Analytics and Data | In this insightful session, renowned people analytics expert David Green joins Jeff for a deep dive into the latest research shaping workforce management. Together, they’ll explore how organizations are turning data into action — from optimizing talent planning and performance to enhancing employee experience and retention.\n\nExpect a conversation rich with real-world examples, practical frameworks, and evidence-based strategies that HR and business leaders can use to drive smarter, more agile workforce decisions.\n\nIf you’re looking to move beyond dashboards and into impact, this session is for you. | - David Green\n- Jeff Mac Boham | - Executive Director, Insight222\n- Research, Learning & Advisory Board Member, GCHRA | In - Person | Hybrid |
| 5 | 11:18:00 | 11:43:00 | 00:25:00 | 25 mins | WELLBEING & NETWORK BREAK | In Person | ||||
| 6 | 11:43:00 | 11:45:00 | 00:02:00 | 2 mins | ** MC to welcome everyone back, intro next session | Cynthia | In - Person | Hybrid | ||
| 7 | 11:46:00 | 12:31:00 | 00:45:00 | 45 mins | Ignite: AI for HR - What Every HR Pro Needs to Know | As AI reshapes roles, skills, and workflows, the question is no longer if we adapt — but how. This fast-paced session explores how organizations across Africa can unlock the potential of human–machine collaboration to reimagine talent strategies, build adaptive workforces, and future-proof careers.\n\nWe’ll dive into how AI can augment—not replace—human potential, covering:\n- Modernizing Learning and Mindsets for Global Competitiveness: Strategies for Africa’s Workforce - with Ashesi University\n- Governance with Purpose: Ethical AI for a Responsible and Inclusive Future of Work - with SHRM\n- How to do Data Analysis without hiring a data analyst using AI - with HiBoB | - Kwabena A. Bamfo\n- Emily M. Dickens\n- EB Novak | - Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science Department Lecturer, Ashesi University\n- Chief of Staff, Head of Government Affairs & Corporate Secretary, SHRM\n- Solution Consultant, HiBob | - in-person\n- in-person\n- virtual | Hybrid |
| 8 | 12:34:00 | 13:09:00 | 00:35:00 | 35 mins | HR Huddle: AI Readiness: HR Leaders in Conversation | In this interactive workshop, HR leaders will come together for open, peer-led dialogue on what it really takes to prepare people and organizations for AI-powered work.\n\nIn small roundtable discussions, we’ll explore:\n- How AI is reshaping roles and required skill sets\n- What “readiness” looks like across different functions and regions\n- Practical strategies for reskilling, change enablement, and employee buy-in\n\nThis is a space for honest questions, shared experiences, and cross-industry learning. Whether you're early in your AI journey or already experimenting, come ready to connect, reflect, and walk away with fresh perspectives from fellow HR leaders. | Faith Mirembe | Advocate & Human Resources Professional | In - Person | in Person |
| 9 | 13:13:00 | 14:13:00 | 01:00:00 | 60 mins | LUNCH & NETWORKING BREAK | In - Person | ||||
| 10 | 14:14:00 | 14:16:00 | 00:02:00 | 2 mins | ** MC to welcome everyone back, intro next session | In - Person | Hybrid | |||
| 11 | 14:17:00 | 15:02:00 | 00:45:00 | 45 mins | Panel: Regional HR Associations talk HR | As Africa’s workforce rapidly evolves, regional HR associations play a critical role in aligning policy, practice, and purpose across borders. In this panel, leaders from key HR bodies across the continent come together to discuss their collective impact — from elevating professional standards to influencing policy and empowering the next generation of HR leaders.\n\nThe conversation will spotlight:\n- Regional challenges and opportunities in workforce development\n- Cross-country collaboration and knowledge sharing\n- The role of associations in upskilling, certification, and ethical HR leadership\n\nJoin us for an inspiring dialogue on how HR associations are shaping the future of work — not just locally, but across Africa. | - Ronald Bbosa\n- Ahmed Quresha Abdullahi | - President-Human Resource Managers Association of Uganda, HRMAU\n- ED, IHRM Kenya | In - Person | Hybrid |
| 12 | 15:06:00 | 15:46:00 | 00:40:00 | 40 mins | Keynote: The Future of Work with Microsoft 365 and Copilot: Exploring AI-powered productivity tools reshaping the global workplace | Discover how AI is revolutionizing the way we work through Microsoft 365 and Copilot. This session will explore how these intelligent tools are streamlining workflows, enhancing collaboration, and empowering employees to focus on high-impact work.\n\nFrom real-time content generation to smarter decision-making, see how organizations are leveraging AI to boost productivity, reduce digital fatigue, and shape a more agile, responsive workforce. Join us to learn what’s possible — and what’s next — in the AI-powered workplace. | Nicole Herskowitz | Corporate Vice President, Microsoft | AI, Cloud, Productivity | Virtual | Hybrid |
| 13 | 15:35:00 | 15:37:00 | 00:02:00 | 2 mins | ** MC thank Nicole, sends everyone to networking | in Person | ||||
| 14 | 15:38:00 | 16:03:00 | 00:25:00 | 25 mins | WELLBEING & NETWORK BREAK | In Person | In Person | |||
| 15 | 16:08:00 | 16:16:00 | 00:08:00 | 8 mins | Innovation Labs | KUSI | in Person | |||
| 16 | 16:20:00 | 17:00:00 | 00:40:00 | 40 mins | Fireside chat: The Intersection of Technology and Human Capital - Driving Business Success in the Digital Age. | As we close out two days of powerful dialogue, this final fireside chat offers space to revisit key themes and unpack the big questions still on the table. At the heart of the conversation: how do we align technology and human capital to drive real, sustainable business success in Africa and beyond?\n\nExpect a candid, reflective discussion on what we've learned, what still needs to be said, and what it will take to lead in a world where digital transformation and people strategy are inseparable. This is your opportunity to pause, challenge, and contribute as we wrap up the journey — together. | - Andy Biladeau\n- Adetoun Akinsunmi | - Chief Transformation Officer, SHRM\n- Chief of Staff, SeamlessHR | in Person | |
| 17 | 17:01:00 | 17:07:00 | 00:06:00 | 6 mins | Closing 2025 remarks from MCs | - Cynthia Mawulawoe Kodowu \n- Benjamin Owusu Ansah | - Founder, HR Network Africa \n- Co-Founder, SpeakWell International | in Person |
Conference Day 3- Masterclasses
| SPEAKER | TITLE | TOPIC | TIME FRAME | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | Andy Biladeau | Chief Transformation Officer, Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) | The Age of Convergence: How Technology Is Shaping the Future of HR | 9:00am - 10:30am |
| 1 | Faith Mirembe | Advocate & Human Resource Professional. Associate CIPD | The Responsible Use of AI in HR: Ethics, Fairness & Governance | 9:00am - 10:30 am |
| 2 | David Ssegawa | Founder, Human Resources Managers' Association of Uganda (HRMAU) | Localizing Generative AI for African Workplaces: From Language to Culture | 11:00am - 12:30 pm |
| 3 | Jeffery Mac Boham | MBA, PMP, SHRM-SCP, SPHR | The Evolution of AI: and the Future-Ready HR Leader | 11:00am - 12:30 pm |
| 4 | Dr. Sherron Carrion | DBA, MBA, GPHR, Founder & Chief Empowerment Officer, Distinct Excellence Global LLC | HR, Heal Thyself: Burnout‑Proof Self‑Care Tips for Busy HR Professionals | 1:30pm - 3:00pm |
| 5 | Emmanuel Woyome | Director of Training, SHRP Ghana | AI‑Enabled Learning & Development: Personalized Upskilling at Scale | 1:30pm - 3:00pm |
Conference Day 4 - Tours
| Tour Name | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | Day Retreat At Safari Valley Resort | Safari Valley is the first luxury Eco Park Resort sited in the Okere District in the Eastern Region of Ghana with accommodation and Recreation facilities that provide world class services to its guests |
| 1 | Half Day Accra City Tour | Experiencing the capital city of Accra within 5 hours, visiting some iconic interesting places such as W.E.B Dubois Center, Art Center, Jamestown lighthouse and also sightseeing some important buildings and monuments |
| 2 | Heritage Tour (Cape Coast) | The Heritage Tour enlightens the slavery in Ghana that happened 400 years ago at the Cape Coast Castle, Kakum Park to have an amazing experience walking on suspended canopy through the coastal. Continue to Hans Cottage to enjoy lunch and experience friendly crocodiles. |
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