The International Day to End Violence Against Women 2024 witnessed a powerful and impactful event in Accra, Ghana, spearheaded by actress and producer Yvonne Ossei. The Empowering Women and Girl-Children Programme, held at the British Council Accra, served as Ghana’s resonant response to the United Nations’ global call to action against violence and discrimination targeting women and girls. This audio-visual and interactive experience, conceived and created by Ossei in partnership with the British Council, marked the commencement of the annual 16 Days of Activism, a global campaign spanning from November 25th (International Day to End Violence Against Women) to December 10th (International Human Rights Day). The event combined artistic expression with insightful discussions, leveraging multiple platforms to amplify its message and reach a wider audience.
The program’s centerpiece was the screening of Cuts, a short fictional drama addressing the harrowing practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). Written and executive produced by Yvonne Ossei, the film served as a catalyst for a subsequent question-and-answer session. Attendees engaged in a thoughtful dialogue, seeking deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding FGM and exploring the creative motivations behind Ossei’s powerful portrayal. The screening and subsequent discussion served as a crucial awareness-raising platform, bringing the issue of FGM to the forefront and fostering a space for open conversation and critical reflection. This segment effectively utilized the power of storytelling to connect with the audience on an emotional level, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of the issue’s impact.
Beyond the screening, the event featured a compelling panel discussion entitled “Creating Spaces for Gender-Based Experiences in TV & Film.” This panel brought together prominent voices in the media industry, including Nosisa Doe, Channel Head of Akwaaba Magic TV; Veda Smith, a Grammy-nominated producer and CEO of Dogsled Productions; and Dr. Felicia Odame, a Gender Specialist. Their combined expertise provided a multifaceted perspective on the representation of gender-based experiences within the entertainment landscape. The discussion resonated deeply with the audience, particularly in its exploration of sensitive topics such as sexual harassment within workplaces and educational institutions. This open dialogue provided valuable insights into the challenges women face in these environments and emphasized the need for systemic change.
The evening culminated in a series of artistic performances that further enriched the event’s message. Five poets from the Creative Writing Academy Accra presented powerful spoken word pieces inspired by personal and societal experiences of gender-based issues. This creative expression added a deeply moving and personal dimension to the event, further emphasizing the impact of gender-based violence and discrimination. The convergence of film, panel discussion, and poetry created a multi-layered and immersive experience, ensuring the message resonated with attendees on multiple levels.
The impact of the Empowering Women and Girl-Children Programme extended beyond the walls of the British Council Accra. The event was strategically broadcast live on prominent television stations, including Joy News and GH One, significantly expanding its reach and amplifying the voices of the women and girls whose stories and experiences were at the heart of the event. This broadcasted reach ensured the message extended to a wider Ghanaian audience, furthering the goals of awareness-raising and inspiring action against gender-based violence.
Yvonne Ossei’s commitment to advocating for women’s rights and addressing social issues through her creative platform is a longstanding dedication. Her early work includes a stage play on FGM performed at Channel 4 Studios in the UK, followed by a tour of influential theaters such as the Pleasance Theatre. This consistent advocacy demonstrates a sustained commitment to using her platform to amplify marginalized voices and inspire change. Her statement, "I see it as a privilege to represent the welfare of women and girls in Ghana, across the continent, and beyond," underscores her profound dedication to this cause.
Beyond Cuts, Ossei’s impressive portfolio includes the creation and executive production of popular shows like Celebrity TV Couch and Heart of the Matter, a TV debate series. Her groundbreaking achievements extend to becoming the first African woman to win the British Urban Film Festival Award. Furthermore, she received double recognition at the GPA 2024, winning both Executive TV Producer and Actress of the Year. These accolades not only highlight Ossei’s exceptional talent but also serve as an inspiration to other aspiring female creatives. The Empowering Women and Girl-Children Programme serves as a powerful testament to Yvonne Ossei’s ongoing dedication to amplifying the voices of women and girls, fostering greater awareness, and mobilizing action against the persistent issue of gender-based violence. Through her creativity, leadership, and unwavering commitment, she continues to pave the way for a more equitable and just future for women and girls.
