Bola Ray, Dr Edith Dankwa and Juliet Ibrahim were among several distinguished personalities honoured at the SHIMEI Star Influential Awards held in Accra.
LadySam, founder of SHIMEI Solutions, hosted the 7th International Women’s Day celebration alongside the 2nd SHIMEI Star Influential Awards at Silverbird Cinema Ghana on 5th March 2026. The event was organised together with the INCLUDEHer Conference in collaboration with Global Media Alliance, the International Relations and Diplomacy Network Ghana and Capemay Properties.
Media personality Nat Kwabena Adisi, popularly known as Bola Ray, received the SHIMEI Man of the Year Award 2026. Renowned business leader Dr Edith Dankwa was honoured with the SHIMEI Executive Leader of the Year Award 2026, while celebrated actress Juliet Ibrahim was presented with a special recognition marking 20 Years of Excellence in Film. The award was received on her behalf by her sister, Sonia Ibrahim.
The SHIMEI Star Influential Awards recognises individuals and organisations making meaningful impact in society, particularly in ways that uplift women and communities.
Speaking at the event, LadySam emphasised the purpose behind the awards, noting that the platform celebrates women who have accomplished remarkable feats and individuals who continue to advocate strongly for women’s empowerment through their work and influence.
Other honourees included Faith Ocloo, who received the SHIMEI PR Professional of the Year Award 2026. The Kingsley Appiagyei Foundation was honoured with the SHIMEI Community Leader Award 2026, while the Managing Director of Nestlé Ghana, Salomé Azevedo, received the SHIMEI Woman of the Year Award 2026. Nabeela Abubakari was also recognised with the SHIMEI Sustainability Award 2026.
The awards ceremony was held alongside the INCLUDEHer Conference, themed “Include Her: Her Rights. Her Voice. Our Action. Driving Inclusion and Equity Through Cultural Diplomacy, Media and the Social Environment.” The conference brought together speakers from various sectors who shared insights on empowerment, leadership, mental wellbeing and the importance of representation.
Ekua Eguakun, Managing Partner at HERALD Law, highlighted the need for women to understand the laws designed to protect their rights. Marketer and young changemaker Gigi Rose Mann also encouraged women to actively participate in empowerment programmes and create spaces where they can learn, connect and grow.
Eunice Tornyi, host of the African Women’s Voices show and President of the International Relations and Diplomacy Network Ghana, served as co-organiser and Master of Ceremonies for the event.
The Managing Director of Supreme Health and Management Services emphasised the importance of mental health awareness and support from an early age. Sonia Ibrahim spoke about the value of women occupying visible leadership positions to help build confidence and authenticity. Rosie Ebe Arthur, CEO of RE HR Ltd and Acting Board Chair of FirstBank Ghana, also addressed the importance of deliberately sponsoring women for leadership opportunities.
The event was lively and engaging, with entertainment adding energy to the celebration. Jay Avid thrilled the audience when he entered among the guests, creating excitement in the room. Attendees also enjoyed music throughout the programme and an engaging 360-degree camera experience which added a fun and interactive atmosphere.
Guests were treated to cocktails and refreshments, with light bites provided by GoldCoast Restaurant and Lounge, contributing to the welcoming and celebratory mood of the gathering.
The SHIMEI Star Influential Awards is guided by an awards committee comprising Debra Jane Nelson, CEO of Think Mahogany; influencer and pop culture curator Ameyaw Debrah; Cynthia Mawulawoe Kodowu, Executive Director and Founder of HR Network Africa; Deborah Kwablah, corporate communications and public affairs professional; Timothy Karikari, Director of Global Media Alliance Broadcasting Company; Patience Osekre, Managing Director of Supreme Health Management Services; and Sonia Ibrahim, mental health therapist, actress and entrepreneur.
The event received support from several partners and sponsors including The Signature Apartments, Capemay Properties, B&FT Ghana, YTV, YFM Ghana, Happy FM, GoldCoast Restaurant and Lounge, The Multimedia Group, AI Concepts, Perception Management International Ltd, Dulcified Munchies, DAARLiving, Global Village Consortium, Bodiewox, Ameyaw Debrah, Eproductions Ghana, Eva’s Deco, IBY Service, High Priest Studios, Ghanawebhosting.com, TwinnieKrafts, Fiesta Royale Ghana, Queendom Sistahs, Kiki Clothing, KKO Solutions and Logistics.
The gathering brought together leaders, changemakers and advocates of women’s empowerment for a memorable celebration of influence, collaboration and impact. Participants experienced a day filled with inspiring conversations, recognition of excellence and a shared commitment to advancing inclusion and opportunity.
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