On September 6, 2024, Yaa Priscilla Birago, the Founder and CEO of Soko Bags, delivered an inspiring speech at the Cohort 4 Graduation of the Standard Chartered Women in Tech Incubation Program. The event, which took place at the Ghana Climate Innovation Centre (GCIC), brought together entrepreneurs, innovators, and leaders committed to advancing women in business and technology.
Yaa’s participation in the event marked a special moment, not only for the graduates but also for her own entrepreneurial journey. A year earlier, she had stood in their shoes—an ambitious entrepreneur navigating the many challenges that come with building a sustainable, socially responsible business. Today, Yaa leads Soko Bags, Ghana’s leading producer of biodegradable, reusable bags that combat plastic waste while empowering local communities.
During her speech, Yaa reflected on her journey with Soko Bags and the transformative impact of the Women in Tech Incubation Program. “When I applied for the program, I was seeking more than just business support,” she shared. “I was looking for a community—a place where I could learn, be challenged, and grow alongside other women entrepreneurs who were on similar journeys.”
During her time in the program, she gained something far more valuable than money—mentorship and practical business insights that helped her take Soko Bags to the next level. The mentorship offered by the program, she noted, was instrumental in shaping her leadership style and expanding her vision for Soko Bags.
SC WOMEN IN TECH INCUBATOR PROGRAMME
Growth and Innovation Through the Program
Yaa’s speech highlighted the growth of Soko Bags since completing the Women in Tech Incubation Program. Under her leadership, the company has significantly expanded its product lines and international reach. In August 2024, Soko Bags produced 4,000 custom-printed t-shirts for Manbah Gas Company Limited, an achievement that exemplifies their growing capacity and expertise. Today, Soko Bags operates in seven international markets, a remarkable feat for a company that started with a local focus on reducing plastic waste in Ghana.
“Our customer satisfaction rate stands at 95%, and we’ve increased our production capacity by 500%,” Yaa shared with the audience. She attributed these milestones to the skills and knowledge gained during the program, especially in areas like sustainable manufacturing and operational efficiency. Soko Bags’ workforce has also grown, with 85% of the company’s employees being women, demonstrating Yaa’s commitment to empowering women through sustainable employment.
Empowering the Next Generation of Women Entrepreneurs
Yaa’s message to the graduating cohort was one of encouragement and empowerment. “You have everything it takes to succeed,” she assured them. “You’ve been given the tools, resources, and knowledge—now is the time to leverage them.” She also reminded the graduates that entrepreneurship is a journey with ups and downs, but that real growth often happens during the most uncertain times.
Her advice to the women entrepreneurs resonated deeply: “Stay connected to the network you’ve built here. The women you’ve met and the mentors you’ve learned from will continue to be a source of support and inspiration as you move forward.”
A Special Thanks
In her closing remarks, Yaa extended her gratitude to Standard Chartered, GCIC, and all the partners who have supported the program. “The work you’re doing is incredibly important,” she said, “not only for women in business but for the broader ecosystem of innovation and impact.”
As Yaa continues to lead Soko Bags into a promising future, her journey serves as an inspiration to women entrepreneurs across Africa and beyond. Her story underscores the importance of mentorship, community, and resilience in building a business that not only succeeds but makes a lasting, positive impact on society.
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