40 Most Inspirational Female Leaders in Ghana is an initiative by the Young Global Leaders Network, organisers of the Young African Leaders Summit. The Network is an international youth leadership development organisation with an active presence in over 16 countries, bringing together young social and business entrepreneurs, emerging politicians, diplomats, innovators, educators, policy-makers, professionals, and other talented future leaders who are shaping the world with their skills and creativity.
The Young Global Leaders Network aspires to be the world’s leading organisation for training, mentoring, and preparing young leaders in diplomacy, politics, business leadership, and entrepreneurship. It is duly registered in Ghana, bearing the registration number CG072582020.
For this particular initiative, a dedicated committee established rigorous criteria and accepted internal nominations from members and management of the Network. After thorough scrutiny, the following nominees were selected as the 40 Most Inspirational Female Leaders in Ghana.
40 Most Inspirational Female Leaders in Ghana PowerList
Berla Mundi
Berla Mundi, one of Ghana’s most celebrated media personalities, is a shining star in the media landscape. With a career spanning radio, television, and social media, Berla has demonstrated exceptional versatility and influence. Currently, a co-host of TV3’s flagship morning show, “New Day,” she brings to the table her unique blend of professionalism, charm, and intelligence, making her a trusted voice in Ghanaian media.
Berla’s contributions extend beyond just presenting; she’s actively involved in youth empowerment and advocacy. Her work with the Berla Mundi Foundation, which focuses on educating and empowering young girls, has had a tangible impact on the lives of many. Berla’s consistency and growth in the media industry, combined with her commitment to social causes, make her a deserving candidate for recognition. She embodies the qualities of a role model who uses her platform to inspire and uplift others.
Senyuiedzorm Awusi Adadevoh is an award-winning Ghanaian journalist, news anchor, and trailblazing sports photojournalist, recognised for her impactful storytelling, ethical reporting, and dedication to social justice. She empowers women and marginalised communities through her work, promoting accountability and quality journalism.
Renowned as one of Africa’s leading female sports photographers, Senyuiedzorm has covered major international events, including two FIFA World Cups, two Olympic Games, and five Africa Cup of Nations tournaments. She is the founder of Images Image, a company specialising in sports photography and visual storytelling.
Her collaborations with global organisations such as FIFA and the Confederation of African Football underscore her influence in the field. Since 2008, she has vividly chronicled the journey of Ghana’s national football team, the Black Stars. Senyuiedzorm’s dedication has earned her accolades like Best Female Newscaster (RTP Awards) and Best News Anchor (Ghana Media Awards). She currently anchors and reports for Joy News, Ghana.
Senyuiedzorm Awusi Adadevoh
Juliet Bawuah
Juliet Bawuah is a trailblazing sports journalist, broadcaster, and passionate advocate for women’s sports development. With over a decade of experience, she has broken barriers and paved the way for a new generation of female sports journalists in Africa.
Juliet’s career includes work with renowned media outlets like Euronews, BBC, and TV3, where she has covered major international sports events. Her contributions are recognised for:
- 🏅 Pioneering women’s sports coverage in Ghana
- 👩🎓 Empowering female athletes and sports professionals
- 🌍 Promoting African sports on a global scale
Juliet continues to shape the sports media landscape, championing inclusivity and representation for women in sports.
Odelia Ntiamoah Boampong is a highly respected and accomplished journalist, broadcaster, and media personality. With a distinguished career spanning over two decades, she has cemented her place as a leading voice in Ghana’s media landscape.
Odelia has worked with renowned media outlets such as Adom FM and Adom TV, where she has covered a wide range of topics, including politics, social issues, and entertainment. Her commitment to excellence and authenticity is reflected in her:
- 📰 In-depth reporting and insightful analysis
- 👩🎓 Empowerment of women and marginalised communities
- 🇬🇭 Promotion of Ghanaian culture and heritage
Her dedication and skill have earned her numerous accolades, including:
- 🏆 Winner, Best Female Radio Presenter (RTP Awards)
- 🌟 Nominee, Best TV Female Entertainment Show Host (RTP Awards)
Odelia continues to inspire and inform, shaping the narrative of Ghanaian media with integrity and passion.
Odelia Ntiamoah Boampong
Patricia Obo-Nai
Ing. Patricia Obo-Nai is the Chief Executive Officer of Telecel Ghana. A distinguished telecommunications engineer and business leader, she has over 20 years of experience in the industry. As the first Ghanaian to serve as CEO of Vodafone Ghana before her role at Telecel, she has led transformative initiatives in Ghana’s telecom sector.
Patricia holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and an Executive MBA from the University of Ghana. She has further honed her leadership skills with executive education programmes at INSEAD and Kellogg School of Management.
Her accolades include Telecom CEO of the Year at the Ghana Information Technology and Telecom Awards (GITTA) 2020 and recognition as one of Africa’s 50 Most Influential Female Leaders by Leading Ladies Africa in 2021. A passionate advocate for STEM education and women in technology, Patricia continues to inspire future leaders through her dedication to innovation and excellence.
Abena Amoah, Managing Director of the Ghana Stock Exchange, is a leading figure in Ghana’s financial sector with over 20 years of experience in investment banking, capital markets, and financial services. She has held key positions, including Deputy Managing Director of the Ghana Stock Exchange and CEO of NewWorld Renaissance Securities Ltd. Abena’s expertise spans mergers and acquisitions, capital raising, and asset management, contributing significantly to Ghana and West Africa’s financial development.
She has served on the boards of organisations like Access Bank Ghana, Coronation Insurance Ghana, and the University of Ghana. Abena holds a Business Administration degree from the University of Ghana and has completed executive programmes at Stanford and Harvard Business Schools. A passionate advocate for financial literacy and women’s empowerment, she continues to mentor the next generation of financial leaders, promoting transparency, inclusion, and excellence in finance.
Abena Amoah
Afua Asabea Asare
Dr. Afua Asabea Asare, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), is a distinguished strategist with over 28 years of management experience across diverse corporate environments. Appointed by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo in 2018, she has been instrumental in advancing Ghana’s export sector.
Under her leadership, GEPA achieved an unprecedented 11.75% growth in non-traditional exports in 2023, the highest since its inception in 1969.
Dr. Asare spearheaded the National Export Development Strategy (NEDS), a 10-year roadmap aimed at diversifying Ghana’s export base.
Her efforts have positioned Ghana as a leader in the West African export industry.
She holds an MBA in International Business from Ecole Superieur de Gestion (ESG), Paris, and a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana.
Beyond her corporate achievements, she is a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment and entrepreneurship, mentoring young women to nurture their entrepreneurial interests.
Mrs Pearl Esua-Mensah is an accomplished, world-class business leader with a distinguished career in the financial services industry. Before her appointment as Chief Executive of Ghana Deposit Protection Corporation, she founded and led Feniks Ltd, a successful business consultancy firm. She previously served as Chief Executive of Media General Ltd, a prominent group of media organisations in Ghana, from September 2017 to September 2018. Her earlier roles include Deputy Managing Director of UT Bank Ghana and senior financial positions such as Group Financial Accountant at Parity Group PLC and Group Reporting Accountant at the Kantar Group in the United Kingdom.
Currently, Mrs Esua-Mensah chairs the Board of Directors at Ashesi University, a role she assumed in 2017 after serving on the Board since 2014 and leading the Finance Committee.
Her educational achievements include a BSc in Business Administration from the University of Ghana, Legon, and an MBA from the Manchester Business School. She is also a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (FCCA).
Beyond her corporate successes, Pearl is a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment and entrepreneurship. She actively supports initiatives designed to equip women entrepreneurs with the tools and resources needed to thrive in business. Her commitment to nurturing and mentoring the next generation of female leaders in Ghana is both inspiring and impactful.
Mrs Pearl Esua-Mensah’s blend of exceptional leadership, strategic expertise, and dedication to empowering women makes her a true force for positive change and a deserving candidate for recognition.
Mrs Pearl Esua-Mensah
Delese Mimi Darko
Delese Mimi Darko is the chief executive officer of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), a position she has held since 2017, and a national trailblazer in health regulation with more than 28 years of experience. As the first woman President of the FDA, she championed the safe use of medicines, which resulted in Ghana becoming a member of the WHO Programme for International Drug Monitoring and creating the first National Centre for Pharmacovigilance for West Africa.
She also introduced the regulation of clinical trials, making Ghana a front-runner in the West African sub-region. Her leadership resulted in the establishment of the regulatory framework for blood products, and Ghana remains the only one with such systems in any country in Sub-Saharan Africa. She was a lead in the launch of the Med Safety App and forging partnerships with international organizations including WHO, UK MHRA, and Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
Her tireless work led her to win honors like the Ghana Women of the Year (Health) in 2019 and the United Nations Award for Non-Communicable Disease Prevention.
Dr Marion Okoh-Owusu is the Director for the Family Health Division at the Ghana Health Service and a public health transformation leader. She has held numerous leadership positions from frontline care to international health service delivery, including District Director of Health Services and Regional Director for the Western North and Central Regions and was the first Director for Western North in 2019, where she built strong health systems.
Dr. Okoh-Owusu holds an MB. She graduated with a ChB from KNUST, Ghana, Master of Public Health and PhD in Health Policy from the University of Warwick, UK, and Postgraduate Diploma in Nutrition from Boston University, USA. She is a co-founder at Vossmed Priority Health Trust, which advocates sexual and reproductive health for youth. A Fellow of the Ghana College of Physicians, she has served in leadership positions in the Ghana Medical Association and the Medical Women International Association. Her commitment to strategic planning, mentorship, and health system management cultivates excellence within her teams.
Dr Marion Okoh-Owusu
Dr. Paulina B. Mensah
Dr. Paulina B. Mensah | Medical Doctor, MSc Student at Imperial College London (Applied Computational Science and Engineering) Drawing upon her medical background and technological interests, she aims to improve the treatment of underserved populations. Paulina has clinical experience from KNUST Hospital, worked in health data science, AI research, and community health outreach.
Achievements include being awarded the Poster Award from the Black in AI Workshop at NeurIPS, where Kate’s work was selected from submissions across the broad spectrum of AI research (including machine learning, deep learning, and AI ethics). She has won the UBA National Essay Competition award and was also an MTN Bright Scholar.
From SnooCODE to the Global Health and Infectious Diseases Group, Paulina is clearly passionate about innovating with AI and making it work to strengthen the health system. Her dedication to data science, healthcare innovation, and mentoring junior scientists positions her in a league of her own as a leader.
Victoria Mabel Sackey is the Co-Founder & COO of MedTrack, a health-tech company creating digital solutions to transform healthcare delivery in Ghana & Africa. * Victoria’s work addresses the fragmentation of health information, that leads to duplication and inefficiencies across healthcare systems, through universal health records and improving patient care using technologies that are integrated with systems of national identification.
Led by her, MedTrack was the second runner up at the 2024 Sankalp Africa Awards, an organization where innovation and entrepreneurship in Africa are recognized. Victoria has a BSc in Actuarial Science from KNUST and is certified in business finance, data analytics, and app development.
She is a 2024 Impact West Africa Fellow and honouree of the 2021 Global EdTech Startup Awards (Africa Region), which she won while leading Developers in Vogue. Victoria, who is educated with data to October 2023, is focused on uplifting women in tech and supporting youth mental health– with both a focus on operational excellence and social impact to drive sustainable healthcare innovation.
Victoria Mabel Sackey
Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang,
Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, an academician of repute and a champion of education, is a transformational figure and pioneer of education in our country.
Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang made history as the first female Vice-Chancellor of a Ghanaian public university
As Minister of Education from 2013 to 2017, Professor Opoku-Agyemang spearheaded some of the most transformative reforms in the education system, greatly increasing access to quality education across the country. Her agenda involved, among other things, expansion of infrastructure and teacher training as well as efforts toward gender equality in education.
She is the recipient of numerous awards and conferrals which include but are not limited to; the Officer of the Order of the Volta, for Academic Distinction, and honorary degrees from institutions around the world.
Apart from serving in various administrative roles, she has been a part of numerous international boards and committees, contributing to educational dialogues worldwide. Her legacy and commitment to social justice and gender equality education provide a template for future generations of educators and leaders in Ghana and globally.
Penelope Brooke-Thompson: Trailblazer in Ghana’s technical and vocational education and Founder of the African Centre for Technical Training (ACTT) With ACTT, she is leveraging vocational education to industrialize Africa by adding modern skills and knowledge to the know-how of artisans. Fusing technology driven learning into a backbone for technical training she is preparing a new generation of talent.
With Penelope’s contributions, vocational education has improved in terms of quality and relevance, thus becoming a creation engine turning different activities into a driving force for the economy and youth empowerment. She is determined to leverage technology to break the old models of technical training, a perspective she outlined in a recent Voice of America (VOA) interview.
Prior to establishing ACTT, she led extensive IT projects like the electronic billing and payment system for the Ghana Water Company Limited. Through her tireless commitment to education, skills development and innovation, Penelope is transforming vocational education in Ghana to prepare the next generation of industry leaders.
Penelope Brooke-Thompson
Rose Dodd
Rose Dodd is the Executive Director of the Education Collaborative at Ashesi University and the Founder and Director of Kaya Childcare. She addresses educational inequalities among Kayayei in Ghana by offering quality early childhood education via Kaya Childcare, a low-cost, community-oriented model for daycare services, coaching for mothers, health check-ups and nutritional support.
As a part of the Education Collaborative, she spearheads a strategic initiative to radically redesign higher education systems across Africa in pursuit of a collective goal to reach up to 1.1 million students via university partnerships and liberating pedagogical practices. Rose earned an MBA from the University of Illinois and an MPhil in Development Policy from the University of Cape Town. Her commitment to equity and system transformation in education has been recognized by her for Excellence in Community Service. Rose forges significant change by connecting early childhood and higher education to create a brighter tomorrow in Ghana.
Ohemaa Adjei Andoh is a Ghanaian woman, the founder of Girls in Science and Technology (GIST) and also the Director of PM STEAM Educational Centre, which seeks to transform the current trends in STEM education in Ghana. She holds a BSc in Geological Engineering from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), and an MBA under the guidance of the University of Suffolk and uses her experience in Oil and Gas Engineering to strike a passion for science in young women.
With GIST, creates the models and resources for young girls to succeed in STEM — breaking gender biases and encouraging inclusion. At PM STEAM Educational Centre she works with children on hands-on STEM experiments to cultivate problem-solving, creativity and teamwork. She was awarded the Outstanding Women Social Community Award at the Ghana Outstanding Women Awards (GOWA) 2020. Ohemaa is a certified STEM. org Master Trainer and is passionate about empowering girls and closing the gender gap in STEM.
Ohemaa Adjei Andoh
Dr. Elsie Effah Kaufmann
Dr. Elsie Effah Kaufmann is a pioneering biomedical engineer and the Dean of the School of Engineering Sciences at the University of Ghana and an advocate for STEM education. As the founding head of the department of biomedical engineering, she has made considerable contributions to the growth of engineering education in Ghana. Dr Kaufmann holds BSE, MSE & a PhD in Bioengineering from the University of Pennsylvania and is expressly dedicated to affordable biomedical device development for developing countries.
Widely known as National Science and Maths Quiz’s favourite Quiz Mistress, she has motivated a generation of young people to enter the STEM field. Her leadership is not limited to academia; she established the Elsie Effah Kaufmann Foundation to advance science education and served as President of the Ghana Society of Biomedical Engineers. She has received the Best Teacher Award for the Sciences and the Impact Africa Summit Education Laureate. Dr. Kaufmann’s dedication to the empowerment of young scientists still influences Ghana’s educational landscape.
Dr. Nana Ama Browne Klutse is a leading innovator in climate science and technology.
Dr. Nana Ama Browne Klutse is a Professor of Physics at the University of Ghana and Vice Chair of the IPCC Working Group.
She earned her PhD in Climatology from the University of Cape Town and has become a leading figure in researching climate change, including Africa’s vulnerabilities and adaptation solutions.
Dr Klutse was a Senior Research Scientist at Ghana Atomic Energy Commission and also Manager, Remote Sensing, GIS and Climate CenterManager at Ghana Space Science and Technology Institute
She has worked with the IPCC Assessment Reports, as a Lead Author, and received international recognition for this role. With a deep commitment to environmental sustainability, she understands the importance of educating society regarding the climate crisis and mentoring young women in science to break down gender barriers in STEM.
Dr. Klutse’s dedication to using science to benefit society, along with her groundbreaking research, make her a beacon of innovation and a climate action champion in Ghana and beyond.
Dr. Nana Ama Browne Klutse
Prof. Marian Asantewah Nkansah
A Professor of Environmental Chemistry at the Kwame Nkrumah Univerisity of Science and Technology (KNUST). Prof. Marian Asantewah Nkansah is an accomplished educator and innovator in science and technology. She holds a PhD in Environmental Chemistry from University of Bergen, Norway and conducts research in environmental contaminants and pollutants with focus in water, soil, air and food.
Prof. Nkansah is a decorated scientist with accolades such as, fellow of the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences (GAAS), Prize Winner of the World Academy of Science (TWAS) and a fellow of the Next Einstein Forum (NEF) among others.
Prof. Nkansah has made significant contributions to the field of environmental sustainability through research, and is one of the key advocates of environmental awareness and protection in Ghana.
She is one of the founders of the Gaudete Institute (TGI), an NGO focused on children and youth education and empowerment as well as support for underserved women and the aged.
She is also the founder of the Women in Chemistry Network (WICN), which seeks to encourage more women to pursue, thrive and give back to this dynamic field.
Prof. Nkansah is internationally recognised for her work, which tackles pressing environmental issues and makes her an influential role model in sustainable development and a source of inspiration for aspiring scientists in Ghana and elsewhere.
Regina Honu is the founder and CEO of Soronko Academy, the first coding and human-centred design school in West Africa. She is a visionary leader in STEM education, whose mission is to combat the gap in technology for women and girls by equipping them with essential digital skills. Through Soronko Academy, Regina has trained over 20,000 women and girls in coding and digital literacy, and has extended her programmes for boys, men and children with disabilities.
An Ashoka Fellow with multiple awards to her name, she featured as one of BBC’s 100 Most Inspirational Women (2017). Regina also won the Most Impactful Initiative at the Women in Tech Global Awards (2020). Regina has a BSc in Computer Science from Ashesi University and has been named on CNN as one of the 12 Inspirational Women in STEM. Her trailblazing work in tech education is changing lives and building the next generation of tech leaders in Ghana and beyond.
Regina Honu
Shamima Muslim
Shamima Muslim is a distinguished journalist, gender activist, and the visionary founder of the Alliance for Women in Media Africa (AWMA). Through AWMA, she champions initiatives promoting gender equality and inclusive governance in Ghana. In collaboration with the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), AWMA has boosted women’s participation in local governance and trained female journalists in election reporting with support from UNESCO. She also spearheaded gender-sensitive reporting training, enhancing communication skills for women candidates ahead of elections.
Shamima advocates for marginalized groups, pushing for inclusive media coverage of women and persons with disabilities. On International Women’s Day, AWMA called for systemic changes to achieve equity in the media sector. Additionally, she proposed the establishment of 16 domestic violence shelters to support abuse victims and fervently supports the implementation of the Affirmative Action, Gender Equity Bill 2024. Her unwavering dedication continues to drive transformative change for women and girls in Ghana.
Dr. Angela Dwamena-Aboagye is a lawyer and gender advocate and founded The Ark Foundation, a non-governmental organization that offers support services to survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse in Ghana. Dr. Dwamena-Aboagye, through The Ark Foundation, has been a tireless advocate for the rights of women and children, and has furnished shelter, legal aid and counselling service to the needy.
Her work has touched the lives of numerous women and children in Ghana, empowering them to start anew following horrific experiences of violence and abuse. Dr. Dwamena-Aboagye is also a passionate advocate for legal and policy changes to safeguard the rights of women and children in Ghana. She has contributed to social impact and philanthropy, and beyond that, her commitment to gender equality and human rights is distinctively broad-based. She is a ground breaker for survivors of violence and a role model for women leaders.
Dr. Angela Dwamena-Aboagye
Emmaline Datey
Emmaline Datey | HR Professional, Corporate Trainer, Leadership Coach, Emmaline is an HR Professional and Corporate trainer and Leadership coach with Corporate HR experience spanning 12 years across education, aviation and energy industries. Emmaline is the Director of Partnerships and Collaboration and the founder of ICS Africa, with a strong background in event management, SME consultancy and personal development solutions.
In addition, her extensive background includes certification as a John Maxwell Speaker, Coach and Trainer. A public speaking expert and dynamic course leader, Emmaline has also led numerous training events focused on shaping leadership development and career coaching. With youth mentorship rear in her heart with Level Up Africa and being recognised as one of Ghana’s 100 Most influential women and working among the best in leadership and HR excellence.
Stella Gyimaah Larbi is an award-winning educator and people development expert dedicated to empowering self-reliant youth and transforming education to reduce inequality. She was named Ghana’s Most Outstanding Teacher (2022) and received the Global Teacher Award (2021) from AKS India, 2021.
As the Founder and Executive Director of OUT INTERNATIONAL, an educational non-profit, she collaborates with governments, schools, and international organisations to ensure equitable access to quality education. Through her Skills Impact School, established in 2019, she has equipped over 2,000 young girls and boys with essential hard and soft skills, fostering self-reliance.
Stella organises transformative events such as the Women Educators Conference, Men in Education Conference, and the Applaud Teacher Award, enhancing teaching strategies and improving learning outcomes, particularly in remote areas. A dynamic communicator and dedicated advocate, she has consulted on global education policies and spoken at numerous international conferences, continually championing innovation and excellence in education.
Stella Gyimaah Larbi
Mrs. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey
Mrs. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey is the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration of Ghana and has been instrumental in defining Ghana’s foreign policy and enhancing the country’s relations with the international community. Hon. Botchwey has, as the first female Foreign Minister, represented the country on the world diplomatic stage with exception.
Under her leadership, Ghana has strengthened its diplomatic relations with various countries culminating in foreign investments and partnerships in sensitive areas like trade, education and health.
Hon. Botchwey is also a passionate advocate for promoting women’s involvement in Diplomacy and International Relations, inspiring more women to join the Foreign Services.
Her contributions towards government and public service, coupled with her commitment to projecting Ghana’s interest on the international scene, qualifies her for the honour.”
Dr Afisah Zakariah, Chief Director, Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has made several landmark contributions to public service of Ghana and remains a Nobel calling for the purposes of a better world. Dr. Zakariah drawing on a rich experience in public administration and health policy responsive to the needs of the communities and working on the ground, not only impacted on the bottom line but influenced health policies and programming towards the improvement of healthcare delivery in Ghana.
Her stewardship during the COVID-19 pandemic was crucial in facilitating the government’s response efforts, ensuring that essential services were still provided as the public health emergency unfolded. Health equity has been another focus of Dr. Zakariah’s work, and she has advocated for the provision of high-quality health care to vulnerable populations. She has long served the cause of government and public service, and public health overall, and she is well deserving of such recognition. She remains a powerful role model for women in public health and public administration in Ghana.
Dr Afisah Zakariah
Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie
The Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, MP for Ketu South, is creating waves on Ghana’s socio-economic landscape with a variety of initiatives. For three years, she has been giving vocational training to more than 500 youth, empowering them with the means to forge ahead towards economic independence.
An advocate for marginalized voices and inclusivity, Gomashie joined forces with Klicks Africa to help families of children with autism and developmental delays by providing free assessments and training to help them in caring for their children better.
She also advocates for keeping Ghanaian heritage alive.
Gomashie has also received several awards for her work in the entertainment sector, signifying her commitment to promoting Ghanaian art and culture.
Thus, her work continues to promote youth empowerment as well as cultural preservation and support for marginalised communities in Ghana.
One of Ghana’s darling actresses and television personalities, Nana Ama McBrown, has left an unforgettable imprint in the industry of entertainment. With a career spanning more than 2 decades, McBrown is a household name, recognized for her versatility and her skills in acting, presenting, and hosting. She has appeared in many hit films and TV shows, winning awards for her roles.
Apart from her work behind the camera, Nana Ama McBrown has also become a fierce advocate for women’s empowerment and social change. She uses her voice to speak on behalf of issues like health, education, and women’s rights through her platform to help spread awareness and promote positive change. Nana Ama McBrown has grown to be an inspiration to many young ladies in the showbiz industry and encourages them to dedicate themselves to what they love doing.
Nana Ama McBrown
Gloria Akpene Nyarku-Acquah (MzGee)
MzGee is the stage name of the famous Ghanaian media personality Gloria Akpene Nyarku-Acquah, who has been a force in Ghana radio and television with her dynamic personality. She started in the media space in 2005 at Eagle FM, whilst studying at Cape Coast Technical University. MzGee has played key roles within well-respected media houses, including Multimedia Group and Media General, and has hosted prominent shows, including “Gee Spot” on Joy Prime and “ShowBuzz” on TV3.
MzGee became a member of the UTG family in 2023 as a host of the much popular entertainment show “United Showbiz,” a show whose discussions on Ghanaian arts and culture burgeoning Ghanaian cheer fans. Over the years, she has been progressively recognised for her dedication to promoting the work of local talent. This culminated in her being named Top 30 Most Influential Women in Music (2021) by the 3Music Awards Women’s Brunch.
Indeed, MzGee embodies a power femme; what with her rare interviewing finesse coupled with her relentless crusade to boost Ghana’s entertainment industry.
In Ghana’s literary and media spaces, Portia Arthur—a young author and journalist—has quickly emerged. With her engaging yet thought-provoking style, Portia has written several publications which have struck a chord with readers across the nation. Her book, “Against the Odds,” has been especially well received, motivating young people to overcome obstacles and chase their dreams.
Portia Arthur
Wendy Shay
Wendy Shay is a fast-rising singer who with the release of her hit single and EP has become one of the major stars of the Ghanaian music scene. Wendy has gone on to drop a number of hit songs that have dominated charts as they surpassed millions of streams and views since bursting onto the scene. Afrobeats, dancehall and pop sound has connected with fans in Ghana and around the world, building her a devout following.
She has spoken out on issues affecting women in the entertainment industry, and has also used her platform to raise awareness about the importance of mental health. With her musical accomplishments, she is indeed a material for the honour.
Emerging as one of Ghana’s most dynamic acts, Sefa has swiftly made a name for herself, thanks to her distinctive sound and entertaining shows. Since embarking on her musical journey, Sefa has been dropping hits that have received significant buzz and acclaim. Her music, with its fusion of Afrobeats, highlife, and contemporary sounds, has proven popular across a broad demographic, building her a fanbase.
Apart from her breathtaking musical prowess, she also gains attention for her commitment in promoting Ghanaian culture with her craft. She has worked to establish music as a vehicle for cultural preservation and education, bringing Ghana’s glorious past to the present and future. Her contributions to the music industry, as well as her commitment to cultural preservation, are reasons Sefa deserves such an accolade. She is a young rising artist and continues to amuse people with her music.
Sefadzi Abena Amesu
Delay (Deloris Frimpong Manso)
Delay (Deloris Frimpong Manso) is a prominent Ghanaian entrepreneur and media personality. She is the founder and CEO of Delay Foods and the host of the hit show “Delay Show.” To rising from humble beginnings to become one of the leading figures in Ghana’s entrepreneurial space is an incredible, inspirational journey.
Her brand, Delay Foods, was birthed out of a reaction to the wet market, and is now a household name in Ghana due to the wide variety of food products available. In addition to her business ventures, she has also made a significant impact in the media with her unique and sometime controversial interviews and relatable content that have earned her recognition in the industry. These two aspects of Delay’s contributions and influence at the intersection of various fields are what make her well-deserving of recognition. Today, she inspires and empowers other people around the world with her entrepreneurial work, proving that anything can be done if you work hard.
Akosua Afriyie-Kumi, founder of AAKS, a luxury handbag brand, has played an important role in Ghana’s fashion and design industry. Through her brand, AAKS, she has shown the world the stunning craftsmanship of Ghana, designing handmade raffia bags that are beautiful and sustainable. Akosua’s dedication to using traditional weaving methods whilst integrating contemporary design features, has differentiated her brand on a world stage.
If you’ve followed her entrepreneurial career, you know that sustainability and ethical production processes are her forte. Akosua collaborates directly with artisans in Ghana to provide winning design talent with deserved wages and exposure on a worldwide stage. She has effectively built a brand that imbues everything she touches with a sense of responsibility and purpose. Akosua Afriyie-Kumi motivates others to follow their entrepreneurial instincts and contribute to the betterment of their respective communities.
Akosua Afriyie-Kumi
Claudia Lumor
Claudia Lumor is a visionary leader in Ghana’s media and fashion industries. Claudia has built Glitz Africa into a platform that showcases and highlights profile for African style, beauty, and lifestyle, putting the talent and ingenuity of African designers and entrepreneurs in spotlight. Her organisation has prevailed not only to amplify Ghanaian design to the world and but to also feed and develop the industry across the continent overall.
Passion: Claudia’s passion to promote African culture and empower women in business is what started her entrepreneurial journey. As well as this admirable work, she has also championed women to start their own businesses, using the platform she had created to help and mentor young women with aspirations of doing well in the fashion and media industries. Her contributions to entrepreneurship and her commitment to helping others achieve their goals cement her place as a deserving recipient of recognition. To this day Claudia Lumor inspires and pave the way for the next generation of African entrepreneurs and creatives.
Abena Osei-Poku is a Ghanaian business executive. Abena is the Managing Director and Regional Executive of Ecobank Ghana PLC. Abena has over two decades of experience in the banking sector. Having previously worked as the Managing Director of Absa Bank Ghana, she has indeed contributed hugely to Ghana’s financial space.
Like a pace-setting horse in a race, she has taken the Ghanaian banking sector along a path of transformation.
Her tenure at Absa Bank saw the introduction of cutting-edge financial products and services that made banking more accessible to individuals and businesses across the country. Abena is a passionate advocate for financial inclusion, specifically women and underrepresented groups. With her contributions to the finance world and her experience providing pathways of empowerment for others, she is deserving of a mention. Abena Osei-Poku remains a trailblazer in her field and a role model for other women and men in finance, proving that if you have the vision and drive, you can do great things.
Abena Osei-Poku
Nana Ama Poku
Ghana’s banking industry has a few rising stars, and one such star is Nana Ama Poku, the Deputy Managing Director at Consolidated Bank Ghana. Nana Ama has a diverse background that spans finance, and marketing, and she has built a successful career as a leader in the industry, increasingly taking on roles with greater responsibility over the course of her career. In her role as Deputy Managing Director, she supports the strategic planning and execution of the bank’s initiatives, ensuring it remains at the forefront of growth and innovation in the industry.
Nana Ama is also a passionate advocate of financial literacy and inclusion. She has been engaged in many initiatives working to expand access to financial services for underserved communities, especially women and youth. Her work in finance evidenced a desire to lift others with her as she makes room for others in the spotlight, one of the most deserving candidates for acknowledgement. Nana Ama Poku is already a source of inspiration for many as a role model, reminding us that we can all make strides to be the best of the best in a cutthroat industry like banking, if we have the vision and the willpower.
Elsie Addo Awadzi is the Second Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana, a highly accomplished legal and financial adviser with over two decades experience in financial regulation, policy formulation and international finance. She earned a Master of Laws (LL. M.) in International Business and Economic Law from the Georgetown University Law Center, an M.B.A. in Finance from the University of Ghana and a Bachelor of Laws (LL. B.) from that same institution.
Prior to this, Elsie was Senior Counsel at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), advising on financial laws reform across the globe. She served the country as a Commissioner of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Ghana where she influenced the framework of Ghana’s securities market.
Elsie is focused on missions of financial wellness, inclusive growth, and women in finance leadership. As one of the key architects of regulation in the country’s financial system and its corporate governance framework, her far-reaching contributions on regulatory frameworks and financial policy are firmly cemented as hallmarks of her leadership within the financial sector, both in Ghana and internationally.
Elsie Addo Awadzi
Gloria Boye-Doku
Accomplished finance professional specializing in indirect tax, business tax, international tax and immigration services at Deloitte Ghana, Gloria Boye-Doku is a Partner with over 15years of experience. She leads Deloitte’s Global Employer Services (GES) and Immigration service lines, supporting multinational clients with advanced insights.
With an extensive career that covers both the Ghanaian and UK markets, she has played a key role in providing solutions to challenging and complex regulatory compliance issues. Gloria’s passion for corporate leadership has brought her awards including the 2023 Africa CEO’s Purpose Award; Outstanding Tax Professional Award; and one of the 40 Most Inspirational Female Leaders in Ghana (2020).
A committed champion of industry progress, she is a member of the ACCA Africa Advocacy Committee. Gloria is respected for her pursuit of perfection and leadership, as well as her efforts towards uplifting women in finance.
Genevieve Tachie is the Deputy Managing Director of Activa International Insurance Ghana, bringing over 17 years of experience in finance and accounting. Her career began at KPMG, where she honed her skills in auditing across various sectors, including insurance, banking, and oil. Genevieve’s strategic acumen led her to Global Alliance as Finance Manager, and eventually to Activa, where she rose to become the Regional Chief Finance Officer before assuming her current role.
As Deputy Managing Director, Genevieve oversees accounting functions across Ghana, Sierra Leone, and Liberia, demonstrating exceptional leadership and financial expertise. Her academic qualifications include a BSc (Admin), Executive MBA in Finance, and a Diploma from the Chartered Institute of Insurance. Genevieve’s extensive experience and leadership in the insurance sector make her a standout figure in the finance industry.
