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Transformational Leadership: Sixteen Trailblazers to Be Honoured at 2025 Africa Role Model Awards

Kumasi: Sixteen distinguished individuals making waves across Ghana and Africa in their various fields of work are set to be honoured at the 2025 edition of the MTN Pulse Africa Role Model Awards. The prestigious event is organised by the Young Professionals and Youth Coalition (YPYC) to celebrate transformational leadership and youth impact across the continent.

According to Ghana News Agency, the awards are scheduled for July 26th at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Law Auditorium in Kumasi. This year's awards highlight the vital role of role models in driving youth entrepreneurship, innovation, and community development-key pillars for Africa's progress. The Africa Role Model Awards, now in its 16th year, shine a spotlight on changemakers from sectors including politics, business, health, academia, banking, digital transformation, and community development.

'These individuals have not only distinguished themselves professionally but have also demonstrated a strong commitment to mentoring the next generation and addressing real societal challenges,' a press release issued to the Ghana News Agency, in Accra, stated. Dr Andy Osei Okrah, President of YPYC, underlined that this year's awardees reflect the coalition's vision of nurturing exemplary leadership. 'The recipients are transformational leaders who have inspired and empowered many young people to pursue their dreams and contribute meaningfully to nation-building,' he noted.

Instituted in 2009, the Africa Role Model Awards serve as a powerful platform to recognise leaders whose lives and work inspire youth to create impact and drive sustainable change. 'As Africa grapples with unemployment, digital disruption, and socio-economic inequality, the importance of role models who champion youth development and entrepreneurship cannot be overstated,' he stated. 'This celebration of excellence serves not just as an award ceremony, but as a call to action urging both leaders and youth to build a future anchored in innovation, integrity, and inclusive growth.'

The individuals to be honoured include: Akyamfour Asafo Boakye Agyemang Bonsu, Chairman University Council, KNUST, Asafohene and Head of Akwamu Division of Ashanti; Ms Abena Osei-Poku, CEO, Ecobank Gh Ltd; Dr Michael Kwame Obeng, a Ghanaian Plastic Surgeon based in the USA and Mr Patrick Boamah, Member of Parliament for Okaikwei Central. Others are: Dr Ernest Ofori Sarfo Sarpong, accomplished entrepreneur; Professor Christian Agyare, Provost, College of Health Sciences; Professor Elvis Asare Bediako, Vice Chancellor, University of Energy and Natural Resources; Mr Stan Dogbe, Deputy Chief of Staff, Office of the President and Mr Philip Nana Kwame Brobbey, CEO, Phibro GP.

The rest are Dr Christian Kwasi Agyeman, CEO Taabea, Herbal; Wode Maya, a popular YouTuber; Dr Frank Amoakohene, Ashanti Regional Minister; Mr John Dumelo, Deputy Minister, Food and Agriculture; Dr Kofi Abban, CEO of Rig World; Ms Elorm Goh, CEO, Agrisolve Ltd; and Prophet Dr Agyemang Prempeh, General Overseer, Ultimate Charismatic Center.