Mariam K.A. Buahin On Mentorship, Impact And Authentic Leadership

At the 6th edition of the 3Media Women’s Brunch, marketing and corporate leader Mariam Kaleem Agyeman-Buahin delivered a deeply reflective and inspiring message on mentorship, impact and the power of sharing one’s journey.

Opening with a personal story, Mariam recounted a moment that reminded her of the lasting influence of leadership. A colleague once called to inform her that a group of young women were speaking about her on radio, recounting how strict she had been with them in their early years. At the time, they didn’t understand her approach, often feeling restricted by her guidance. But years later, those same women were expressing gratitude.

“They didn’t like it then,” she shared, “but now they appreciate it.”

For Mariam, that moment was both humbling and affirming. It reinforced her belief that discipline, guidance and intentional mentorship play a crucial role in shaping not just careers, but character.

She emphasized that the choices young people make today ultimately define how they are perceived tomorrow. “What you do today becomes your personality, it becomes what people remember you for,” she noted.

Drawing from her professional journey, Mariam highlighted her time at Vodafone Ghana, where she served as Head of Brand Engagement and Sponsorship. During her tenure, she played a key role in major music and talent initiatives, including ICONS, the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (VGMA) sponsorship and Zero to Hero Live concerts. Among these, ICONS stood out as particularly impactful, as it focused on discovering and grooming young musical talents.

Seeing those talents grow into successful artistes, including performers like Cina Soul who graced the stage at the brunch, remains one of the most fulfilling aspects of her career.

“It’s always powerful to watch your impact in people’s lives,” she said.

Beyond corporate leadership, Mariam has continued to invest in mentorship through her thought leadership platform, Insiders with Mariam, where she shares her experiences and insights across platforms like Spotify, YouTube, Facebook and Instagram. What started as a nudge from colleagues and creatives who encouraged her to “share more” has since grown into a meaningful space for learning and connection.

Interestingly, she noted how strangers have approached her in public to express how much her content has impacted them, proving that even the smallest lessons can resonate deeply.

“No experience is too small, and no lesson is too small,” she emphasized.

Her message to the audience was clear: share your story. Whether it’s something you’re currently navigating or a challenge you overcame years ago, someone else may be going through that exact situation and could benefit from your truth.

Mariam also spoke candidly about the realities of professional life, particularly for women. She acknowledged that the journey is not always smooth, there will be challenges, differing personalities and difficult environments but maintaining focus and staying true to one’s vision is key.

“It’s not all rosy. It’s very tough,” she admitted.

Closing her session, Mariam encouraged women to embrace authenticity, courage and community, reminding them that their voices matter, their experiences are valid and their stories have power.

Her words served as both a call to action and a reminder: in a world where many are navigating similar struggles in silence, choosing to share could be the very thing that inspires someone else to keep going.