Shaping the Future of Work: SHRM Attends Conference on HR in Africa
SHRM returned to Accra, Ghana, in August as a sponsor of the Global Conference on Human Resources in Africa (GCHRA), reaffirming its commitment to advancing the HR profession globally. SHRM President and Chief Executive Officer Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM-SCP, opened the conference with remarks highlighting the critical role of HR in shaping Africa’s workforce and underscoring SHRM’s long-term engagement across the continent.
The 2025 conference had the theme “Digital Transformation for Africa’s Workforce” and brought together policymakers, HR executives, educators, and business leaders to explore the intersection of AI, HR technology, and inclusive workforce development. SHRM’s presence emphasized both thought leadership and its commitment to connecting global HR professionals with local policymakers and business leaders.
To set the stage for the conference, SHRM and GCHRA came together to host the SHRM E2: Education to Employment Policy Forum: Ghana Edition. Guiding the discussions was Emily M. Dickens, J.D., SHRM’s Chief of Staff, Head of Government Affairs, and Corporate Secretary. The forum convened several Ghanaian leaders, including the Minister of Labour, Jobs, and Employment, Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo; Stella Agyenim Boateng, chair of the Public Services Commission and other high-level policymakers. Together with HR executives, academic leaders, and diaspora representatives, the forum addressed the global disconnect between education and employment, fostering dialogue on aligning skills development with workforce needs and driving collaborative solutions.
Throughout the conference, SHRM leadership delivered key sessions that highlighted both innovation and practical strategies for HR professionals. Taylor’s remarks were followed by a keynote from SHRM Chief Transformation Officer Andy Biladeau on “The Age of Convergence: How Technology Is Shaping the Future of HR,” which explored how AI and digital transformation are reshaping HR practices worldwide.
On the final days of the conference, Taylor led a fireside chat with CEOs and CHROs on strengthening the relationship between HR and executive leadership, while Dickens delivered a session on “AI for HR 101,” underscoring SHRM’s expertise in AI governance and its practical implications for HR professionals. Biladeau closed the event with a dialogue on integrating emerging technologies into HR practices to enhance employee engagement, productivity, and organizational performance.
Following the Accra sessions, SHRM leadership traveled to New York and London for targeted media engagements and meetings with SHRM Members in London, reflecting the organization’s ongoing commitment to expanding its global footprint.
SHRM’s participation in the 2025 GCHRA highlighted its dedication to workforce innovation, leadership development, and global collaboration. By convening diverse stakeholders and providing thought leadership, SHRM continues to shape the future of work and elevate the HR profession worldwide.
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