Esther Ambah Numaba Cobbah, a distinguished figure in the field of public relations and the Founder and Chief Executive of Strategic Communication Africa Ltd (Stratcomm Africa), has etched her name in history as the first African to be appointed President of the International Public Relations Association (IPRA). This groundbreaking achievement not only highlights Cobbah’s exceptional leadership but also underscores the growing prominence of Africa on the global communication stage. The IPRA, a 70-year-old organization headquartered in London, plays a crucial role in shaping the standards and practices of public relations worldwide. Cobbah’s election to its highest office signals a new chapter for the organization, one that promises to bring greater diversity and a fresh perspective to its global initiatives.
Cobbah’s journey to the pinnacle of international public relations is a testament to her unwavering dedication, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to ethical communication. Throughout her career, she has garnered numerous accolades, both nationally and internationally, recognizing her exceptional contributions to the field. These include being named IPR, Ghana PR Personality of the Year, CIMG Marketing Woman of the Year, and Outstanding Woman of the Year by GOWA Awards. Her agency, Stratcomm Africa, has also received international recognition, winning the prestigious IPRA United Nations Award for PR and Sustainable Development. These achievements reflect not only her personal success but also her ability to build and nurture a thriving organization that champions excellence in communication.
Cobbah’s experience extends beyond the realm of business leadership. She has actively participated in shaping the global public relations landscape through her involvement with the IPRA Golden World Awards, serving as a distinguished judge and providing her expertise in evaluating international PR campaigns. Furthermore, her four-year tenure as the only African member of IPRA’s Governing Board has provided her with valuable insights into the organization’s workings and the challenges and opportunities facing the profession globally. This experience positions her uniquely to lead the IPRA into a new era of inclusivity and innovation.
Her educational background, encompassing Wesley Girls’ High School, the University of Ghana, and Cornell University USA, has provided her with a strong foundation for her career in communication. This multi-faceted education has equipped her with a global perspective and a deep understanding of the cultural nuances that shape communication strategies. Cobbah’s ability to blend her academic knowledge with practical experience has been instrumental in her success, enabling her to develop innovative approaches to communication that resonate with diverse audiences.
The Institute of Public Relations, Ghana, has expressed immense pride in Cobbah’s historic appointment, recognizing her leadership as a beacon for both Africa and the global communication community. Her ascent to the presidency of IPRA is seen as a source of inspiration for aspiring communicators, particularly in Africa, demonstrating that with dedication, talent, and a commitment to excellence, individuals from the continent can achieve positions of global leadership. This achievement also underscores the growing recognition of African talent and expertise in the international arena.
Cobbah’s presidency is anticipated to bring about a significant transformation in the IPRA, fostering greater inclusion, global cooperation, and innovation within the public relations profession. Her vision is expected to shape the organization’s future direction, promoting ethical practices, and enhancing the role of public relations in addressing global challenges. This new era promises to empower communicators worldwide and elevate the profession to new heights of influence and impact.
