On November 2, 2024, the Advocate for Fair Legal Access Ghana (AFLAG) hosted a distinguished event at the Tang Palace Hotel in Accra, designed to celebrate and honor individuals and organizations contributing significantly to humanitarian efforts in Ghana. The Philanthropic Awards and Charity Night recognized 20 honorees whose achievements have made meaningful impacts on society. Among the recipients was Hon. Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, who received a Lifetime Achievement award for her longstanding dedication to public service. Other noteworthy figures included Rev. Dr. Joyce Rosalind Aryee, named Humanitarian Heroine, and Mr. Eric Seddy Kutortse, recognized as a prominent philanthropist. The event highlighted a diverse array of individuals committed to various sectors, showcasing the collective effort to uplift communities across the nation.
The awards night featured a range of deserving individuals, including Mrs. Femi Asante as Human Rights Defender and Mr. Kofi Job as Humanitarian Philanthropist, showcasing the multitude of ways in which honorees contribute to society. Nii Nortey K. Oquaye was also recognized as a Humanitarian Hero, while Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa was awarded the title of Most Impactful MP for his significant contributions in the political arena. Dr. Vincent Acorlor’s receipt of the Healthcare Hero award underscored the importance of healthcare in philanthropy, while Rev. Dr. Nanayaa Tina Owusu-Prempeh was honored as a Faith-Based Philanthropist, emphasizing the integral role of faith in charitable initiatives. Mr. Ernest Adomako, a noted politician, was recognized as the Champion of Hope for his fostering of positive change.
In addition to the aforementioned honorees, other awards went to H.E. Dr. Lillian Sally Addo as an International Humanitarian and Adiza Ibrahim as a Social Change Advocate. Augustus Koranteng Kyei was distinguished as a Social Media Philanthropist, highlighting the influence of digital platforms on charity work, while Osman Abdulai Ayariga Esq received recognition as a Youth Philanthropist, showcasing the importance of engaging the younger generation in humanitarian efforts. The efforts of Danita Yeboah, celebrated as the Children Empowerment Champion, emphasized the need for focused efforts on youth and children in Ghana. Also represented was the sports sector, with Andre Dede Ayew receiving the Sports Philanthropist award, embodying the integration of sports and philanthropy.
The recognition also extended to community impact initiatives, with Etwereso Mabaa Hemaa being honored, while the Minerals Commission received the CSR Award for its corporate social responsibility efforts. Praise TV, a media outlet, was acknowledged as a Media Philanthropist, reinforcing the media’s role in promoting charitable endeavors, and Ibrahim Appiah was recognized for Excellence in Giving, encapsulating the sacrifices made by individual philanthropists. The diverse range of award categories demonstrated the multifaceted nature of philanthropy and humanitarian efforts in Ghana and served to inspire attendees.
According to Ama Nupe Demuyakor, founder and Executive Director of AFLAG, the event not only sought to honor these remarkable individuals but also aimed to create sustainable networking opportunities among them. She stressed the importance of bringing together such influential personalities, as collaborations could emerge from these interactions, leading to greater positive impacts on society. The night was encapsulated by a quote from Mahatma Gandhi, underscoring the essence of selfless service. Demuyakor expressed hope that the stories and commitment of the honorees would resonate with others, encouraging them to invest in uplifting their communities and fostering a new generation of philanthropists and humanitarians in Ghana.
The attendance at the event enriched the atmosphere as it drew a diverse array of participants, including politicians, traditional leaders, sports personalities, and individual philanthropists. The gathering emphasized the collective responsibility of all sectors in contributing to the betterment of society through philanthropy. By recognizing exceptional efforts and achievements, AFLAG aimed to motivate a culture of giving and humanitarianism among Ghanaians, creating an environment where more individuals feel empowered to make a difference. The evening not only celebrated existing contributions but also planted seeds for future initiatives, thus encouraging ongoing dialogue and collaboration in the realm of philanthropy within Ghana.
