IPR Ghana Honours Shirley Tony Kum as PR Personality of the Year

November 16, 2025

Madam Shirley Tony Kum, the Corporate Communications Head at Vivo Energy, has been adjudged the Public Relations Personality of the Year at the PR Excellence Awards held on Friday. The highly competitive award, presented by the Institute of Public Relations (IPR) Ghana, celebrates professionals whose work significantly impacts the communications industry. Her exceptional contribution during the year under review earned her the coveted honour.

Overwhelmed with emotion, Madam Kum expressed gratitude to God and acknowledged her mentees for inspiring and preparing her for this remarkable milestone. Reflecting on her journey, she said, “From the Parliamentary Service and GBC, among others, to my present position at Vivo, I have learned the task of using customer insights to create measurable impacts… though I have asked myself many questions during difficult times… it has paid off today.”

The ceremony also recognised several distinguished personalities and organisations. Professor Kojo Yankah received the Lifetime Achievement Award, while Dr. Ekow Spio-Garbrah was named PR Legend of the Year for his exceptional contributions both locally and internationally.

The PR Discovery of the Year award went to Mr. Kenneth Adam, and UPSA was named Best Student Chapter.

Sharing insights on the future of the profession, Dr. Spio-Garbrah emphasised that reimagining public relations in today’s world requires practitioners to prioritise communication research that meets audience expectations and enhances societal development. He noted that research and development remain fundamental to value creation, urging PR professionals to adopt new technologies and apply evidence-based communication.

He further highlighted the critical role of PR officers in national development, encouraging them to communicate responsibly to strengthen public trust and cohesion, especially within the public sector.

Madam Esther Cobbah, President of the Institute of Public Relations Ghana, urged members to renew their commitment to advancing the Institute’s role in national affairs and strengthening its influence.

The awards night also celebrated outstanding agencies and organisations across multiple categories. Leonard Yert was named Most Outstanding Agency, while the Ministry of Roads and Highways won Public Sector PR Organisation of the Year. MTN took home the Telecommunication PR Award, Vivo Energy won PR Organisation of the Year, and Karpowership received the Energy and Utilities Award.

Stratcomm Africa emerged as Best in Environment and Climate Communication, and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) claimed the Digital and Social Media Communication Campaign of the Year. MTN Ghana also won the Corporate Communications Award, while GRA was named PR Company/Communication Team of the Year. Karpowership again shined by winning the Community Relations Programme, with MTN also picking the Crisis and Issues Communication Award.

WaterAid Ghana was honoured in the Non-Profit Sector Category, and Vivo Energy was celebrated as Best Promotional Events Organiser. In total, 18 entries were received across 26 award categories.

Earlier at the opening ceremony, Nana Kobina Nketsia V, President of the Western Regional House of Chiefs, urged PR professionals to harness positive communication as a tool for transformation in communities. “Shape the minds of the public towards one development cause of nation building… let public relations work well for the holistic growth of Ghana,” he said.

This year’s annual event, hosted in the Western Region, provided a platform to reflect on achievements, shape strategies for the future, induct new members, and foster professional networking.