Special Guest Speaker
DR. MICHELLE McKINNEY HAMMOND
Author, Speaker, Actress

Known as the queen of reinvention, Dr. Michelle McKinney Hammond leads audiences on a journey through what it means to be empowered to live to their fullest potential, be significant, acquire spiritual completion, and experience fulfilling love.

Michelle is the best-selling author of over 40 books, selling over 2 million copies worldwide. She is an international speaker, relationship expert, and lifestyle coach. 

Her credits include Emmy Award-winning television co-host and actress. Michelle is also a singer/songwriter, with seven CDs to her credit. Discover more by visiting michellehammond.com

JEMILA ABDULAI
Creator of Circumspecte.com

Jemila Abdulai is the creator of Circumspecte.com, a multiple award-winning digital platform for meaningful insights, interaction, and creative action related to Africa(ns). An economist and Ghana’s 2021 Digital Skills Champion, Jemila excels at creating impactful content, courses, connections, conversations, and experiences. Through her engaging career and digital skills workshops, Jemila has guided over 3,000 Africans to leverage digital skills and tools for their brands and businesses. As a digital economy consultant and digital transformation strategist, she provides research, strategy, and policy advisory services for Africa-oriented organisations looking to thrive with digital.

She was recognized in 2022 as a top “45 most influential women in Digital Transformation in Africa by Dx5 (formerly CIO Africa)” and received the ‘Digital Skills Champion’ award for Ghana by the Digital Equality Coalition in 2021 for over a decade’s work in promoting digital transformation. In 2020, the Millennium Excellence Foundation, under the patronage of Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutu II honored her with the ‘2020 President’s Youth Prize for Excellence in Digital Media’. She was also recognized as Ghana’s ‘most influential female blogger’ and one of Ghana’s top 50 most influential youth in 2018 by Avance Media.

A former consultant with the African Development Bank Group in Tunisia and Côte d’Ivoire, she has an M.A. in International Economics and International Affairs from Johns Hopkins SAIS and a B.A. in Economics and French from Mount Holyoke College, both in the United States. Jemila speaks French, is a TEDx Speaker, published author, and host of a TV show on food cultures and climate change in Africa, and has visited over 30 countries, including living in 10 primarily African nations. Jemila currently works at the nexus of business, technology, and finance as a Digital Transformation Leader. She enjoys traveling, global cuisine, coaching, nurturing Africa-Diaspora relations, fitness, and good design.

VIOLET AWO AMOABENG
Founder & Managing Director, Skin Gourmet Ltd.

Violet Awo Amoabeng is a Ghanaian entrepreneur and the Founder and Managing Director of Skin Gourmet Ltd.—a company that produces raw, edible skincare products using ingredients sourced from Ghana. Since founding the business in 2014, she has grown it into a globally recognized brand with international distribution across Europe, the USA, and the Middle East. The company operates on a zero-waste, refill-station model and is certified for export to European markets. Violet brings over a decade of experience in procurement, supply chain management, and sustainability-focused product innovation. 

Prior to launching Skin Gourmet, she served as Head of Procurement at UT Bank and managed procurement operations across multiple business lines at UT Holdings, handling over $10 million in annual procurement value. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Sustainability at Webster University (Leiden Campus), further deepening her commitment to circular design, green technology, and systems thinking for sustainable development. Violet holds an MBA in Finance, Accounting, and Supply Chain Management, a BSc in Accounting & Political Science, and an Advanced Diploma from the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA). 

Her work has earned international recognition, with features on CNN and Forbes, and awards including the Fidelity Bank Green Tech Innovation Challenge and the Africa meets Kansai Japan Competition. She was also named one of Africa’s Top 100 Most Influential Founders in 2023 and is a distinguished alumna of Shenandoah University. In addition to leading Skin Gourmet, Violet serves on the Advisory Board of the Springboard Foundation’s Ghana Grows Program and actively advocates for sustainability, economic empowerment, and innovation across Africa.

CHICHI YAKUBU
Founder & CEO, NyoNyo Essentials

Chichi Yakubu is the visionary founder behind NyoNyo Essentials, a leading Ghanaian catering brand that has redefined accessible, high-quality dining over the past decade. With three thriving outlets in Accra and plans to scale into a network of corner-store-style food hubs, Chichi is transforming the culinary landscape—one flavorful meal at a time.

Her journey began with a personal weight-loss mission that blossomed into a purpose-driven business. What started in her kitchen quickly gained traction among friends and family, sparking the idea to share nourishing, delicious meals with a wider audience. Today, NyoNyo Essentials has served thousands and empowered hundreds through employment, mentorship, and entrepreneurial training.

Armed with a background in Human Resources and an Executive Marketing Certificate from Harvard University, Chichi blends strategic insight with a deep commitment to growth and impact. She’s also the force behind The Business of Catering Initiative, equipping aspiring culinary entrepreneurs—especially women—with the tools and mentorship to succeed.

Beyond the kitchen, Chichi is a dynamic content creator and influencer, known for her authentic storytelling and vibrant digital presence. Her collaborations span industries—from Mastercard and VW Ghana to fashion, fintech, and beauty—bringing credibility and relatability to every campaign she touches.

Her influence extends into social impact, with initiatives like “Order For A Cause”, which mobilized her community to refurbish the Visually Impaired Centre at Okuapeman School. For Chichi, giving back is not a side project—it’s central to her mission.

Featured on platforms like TV3, Joy FM, Citi FM, YFM, and Myjoyonline, Chichi’s story continues to inspire. Yet, her most cherished role remains being a wife and mother, embracing the philosophy that women can have it all—just not all at once.

As she looks ahead, Chichi Yakubu is focused on building lasting value—scaling her brand, expanding her mentorship programs, and staying rooted in purpose. Her journey is far from over—and it’s one worth following.

FOLA FASH
Founder & CEO, TAUPE Tools

Fola Fash is the CEO and founder of TAUPE Tools, a haircare brand that has swiftly gained popularity among hair enthusiasts. With nearly a decade of experience, including training at the renowned Sassoon Academy and working in top London salons, Fola has become a sought-after stylist beyond Africa. 

Her expertise in textured hair and vision for creating premium products led to the launch of TAUPE Tools—a brand designed to meet the needs of both clients and professionals. TAUPE Tools has been tested in salons, on set, and behind the scenes with A-list celebrities, establishing itself as a key player in the haircare industry. 

Fola is redefining haircare with a focus on innovation and inclusivity. Rooted in Africa, TAUPE Tools now reaches the UK, US, and Europe, inspiring a new generation of stylists, especially from Africa and the global diaspora. Fola’s strategy for TAUPE Tools focuses on creating a high-end brand experience that is both aspirational and relatable, while maintaining a strong connection with the consumer base. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Fola adapted the business by concentrating on online tutorials and home-based haircare, ensuring TAUPE Tools’ continued growth. Through her work, she advocates for a more inclusive and innovative haircare industry.

RIMA TURKI
Founder & Creative Director of Rami

Rima Turki is the talented founder and creative director of Rami, a Ghana-based fashion brand established in 2020. Known for her eye-catching fabric manipulation and deep appreciation for garment construction, Rima has built a brand that celebrates craftsmanship, individuality, and bold artistic expression.

Her journey into fashion began during her university days at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, where a growing passion for design inspired her to buy her first sewing machine. Frustrated with how seamstresses and tailors couldn’t bring her creative visions to life, Rima took matters into her own hands, teaching herself to sew and laying the foundation for what would become a flourishing career in fashion.

In 2017, Rima formalized her training by enrolling in the Joyce Ababio College of Creative Design for a one-year intensive course, sharpening her technical skills and refining her garment-making and design perspective. With a hands-on approach and a love for the construction side of fashion, she launched Rami, a label that reflects her artistic journey and commitment to quality.

Today, Rima Turki has built an online shop and a physical store located in the heart of Accra and continues to shape the narrative of contemporary African fashion, blending innovation with authenticity while staying grounded in her passion for the process of making clothes.

MARINA LAMPTEY
Award-Winning Expert in International Relations, Trade & Development.

Marina Lamptey is a multiple award-winning expert in international relations, trade, and development, passionately committed to promoting economic growth, social development, and gender equality. Her expertise spans international trade (including the African Continental Free Trade Area), development management, climate change, executive strategy focusing on resource mobilization and strategic partnerships, project management, and migration management.

With a strong focus on facilitating investment opportunities, Marina excels at coordinating the dissemination of valuable information to empower investors exploring diverse prospects in Ghana and beyond. She is dedicated to identifying potential investment areas, facilitating transactions, and providing comprehensive support services to foster a thriving investment ecosystem.

Marina is deeply passionate about international human rights, trade, and sustainable development. Leveraging her skills, she actively promotes and connects communities with lucrative investment opportunities, aiming to drive sustainable economic growth that benefits individuals and communities alike.

In addition to her professional pursuits, Marina is the founder of a nonprofit organization advocating for the rights of women and girls. She believes that empowering women and girls is crucial for fostering diversity, reducing poverty, and promoting sustainable development. Through mentoring programs, skills training initiatives, and advocacy campaigns, Marina strives to create positive change and build a more inclusive society.

ADAKU UFERE
Award-Winning Energy Attorney & Climate Sustainability Leader.

Adaku Ufere is an award-winning energy attorney and climate and sustainability leader with over 15 years of experience advancing energy policy, renewable investments, climate resilience, and sustainable development across Africa.

She currently works with Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) in Ghana, managing donor coordination for Mission 300, an ambitious initiative aimed at connecting 300 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa to electricity by 2030. This initiative, in partnership with the World Bank, the African Development Bank, the Rockefeller Foundation, and GEAPP, is driving large-scale efforts to accelerate energy access across the continent.

Previously, Adaku was the first African to lead a USAID and Power Africa Program as Chief of Party for the five-year, $74 million USAID Power Africa West Africa Energy Program. She oversaw a team of 150 people across 23 countries, facilitating renewable energy transactions that mobilized over $9 billion in energy investments. Her leadership resulted in the financial close of 2,576 MW of clean energy, 3.8 million household connections, the rehabilitation of 4,394 km of cross-border power lines, and a reduction of over 3 million metric tons of CO₂ emissions annually.

She has lived and worked in Equatorial Guinea and South Africa as the Head of the Energy Practice for Centurion Law Group, and in Nigeria as Legal Counsel for General Electric.

In addition to her work in energy, she serves as an Independent Governor & Trustee on the University Court of the 529-year-old University of Aberdeen, UK.

Her contributions have earned global recognition, including honours as an Obama Foundation Leader for Africa, a Mandela Washington Fellow, and awards such as British Council-Study UK Science & Sustainability Winner, African Attorney of the Year, the African Legal Achievers Award, and the Distinguished Legal Icon Award from the University of Nigeria.

AYESHA BEDWEI IBE
Tax Leader for PwC Ghana

Ayesha Bedwei Ibe is the Tax Leader for PwC Ghana, the Tax and Regulatory Leader for PwC’s West Market Region, and the PwC Global Tax and Legal Services People Leader.

During her career at PwC, Ayesha has had many roles. She served as a member of PwC’s Africa Governance Board, the Inclusion and Diversity Leader for PwC Africa, and the Corporate Responsibility Leader for PwC’s West Market Region.

Ayesha has over 25 years of experience in finance and accounting and has built a large network of global clients and associates during her professional career.

Together with her husband, Pastor Gabriel Ibe, Ayesha co-pastors the Revelation Church, a thriving Christian organisation, with an apostolic mandate to bring Christ to the nations.

Ayesha is passionate about empowering people in all areas of their lives and is the convener of the Revelation Church’s flagship women’s program, “Women Revealed.”

Ayesha is also the author of her first book, “The Kingdom Report: Current Affairs from the Mind of God.” A 90-day Christian devotional with accompanying scriptures available in both English and Spanish translations.

GLADYS AKYERE ROCKSON
Physician assistant (MPH), Philanthropist, and Social Entrepreneur

Gladys Akyere Rockson is a Ghanaian physician assistant (MPH), philanthropist, and social entrepreneur who is making a profound impact on the healthcare landscape of her country. Driven by a deep-seated passion for serving her community, Gladys has dedicated her life to promoting health and wellness, empowering women, and fostering social change.

Through the Rocksons Foundation, Gladys has spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at improving access to healthcare and raising awareness about critical health issues. She has organized free health screenings in underserved communities, prisons, and marketplaces, reaching thousands of individuals with essential medical services and renovating the children’s ward of the Ashaimam Polyclinic. 

This initiative inspired her to establish LAMROCK AGENCY, a social enterprise that promotes health and well-being. Their flagship initiative is the Miss Health Organization, the Women in Health Summit and Award, and the Women in Health Brunch.

Beyond her medical expertise, Gladys is a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment. She recognizes the crucial role that women play in shaping healthy communities, and she actively supports initiatives that promote women’s leadership. In addition to her work in healthcare and women’s empowerment, Gladys is also a successful entrepreneur. 

She is also the founder of RockWoods, a popular restaurant in Accra, and Beauty Avenue, a thriving beauty salon. These ventures demonstrate her entrepreneurial spirit and her dedication to creating sustainable businesses that contribute to the economic development of her community. 

Due to her exceptional leadership, she’s been awarded and recognized by GOWA, AFRICAN WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP AWARDS, YOUNG ACHIEVERS, and many more.

Fredericka Serwaa Doku
Dietitian & Wellness Expert

Fredericka Serwaa Doku is a registered dietitian, wellness expert, and media spokesperson. She has a master’s in human nutrition & dietetics, a postgraduate certificate in inclusive market development from Wageningen University and research, and a BSc in food and nutrition. She is focused on women’s health nutrition, using evidence-based nutrition science to help women with hormonal imbalance, PCOS, fibroids and endometriosis, gut issues, and diabetes. 

She is also a culinary nutrition expert who helps people cook healthy meals for their health. She is also a media dietitian who speaks on national TV on nutrition issues and maternal reproductive health. She is also CEO of Hale & Hearty Nutrition and co-founder, helping women to use healthy foods as a tool to flourish in good health and become the best version of themselves.

Dr. Carol Mathias-O’chez
Founder & Lead Psychologist, Thrive Care Ghana

Dr. Mathias-O’chez is a licensed clinical and educational psychologist passionate about helping individuals thrive in all areas of their life by providing a safe, authentic, judgment-free, & professional space to explore life’s challenges.

In her private psychological care practice, “Thrive Care Ghana,” she works with individuals with mild-moderate mental health challenges and focuses on solution-focused therapy that aims to help children, teenagers, young adults, and adults break unhealthy cycles, unlearn negative thought patterns, and thrive in the areas of personal growth, academic and professional life, family life, relationships, and friendships.

Dr. Mathias-O’chez was born and raised in Ghana, where she received her elementary and secondary school education. She moved to Atlanta, Georgia, in 2003 to continue her education, where she received a: • Bachelor of Arts, Psychology, Agnes Scott College, Atlanta, U.S.A (2007) • Master of Science, Psychology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, U.S.A (2009) • Doctorate, Educational Psychology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, U.S.A (2014)

She has worked in the mental health & educational psychology space for 10 years, most recently holding the position of head of emotional counseling at SOS Hermann Gmeiner International College. Her work in education has centered around consulting for educational and research institutions on emotional and mental well-being support, as well as well-being program development.

Dr. Mathias-O’chez is the co-founder of Mental Health Africa, Africa’s first and largest online directory of mental health professionals and resources for mental health, and is active with psychoeducation through various social media platforms.

Dr. HANNAH-LISA Tetteh
Founder and Executive Lead of Health AVAIL

Dr. HANNAH-LISA Tetteh, popularly known as Dr. HANNAH-LISA, is a multi-award-winning medical doctor, health advocate, influencer, event compere, and media personality whose work bridges clinical excellence, public engagement, and humanitarian service. Renowned for her dedication to healthcare, leadership, and advocacy, she has become a prominent voice in Ghana and across Africa.

She is the founder and executive lead of Health AVAIL, a medical service committed to making healthcare accessible to all, with a particular focus on underserved communities. Through her private medical practice and corporate health initiatives, she delivers tailored services to individuals and organizations, while championing health equity for the less privileged.

Dr. HANNAH-LISA is also the host of the award-winning television show “Health and Vitality,” which airs on JoyNews TV and Joy Prime TV. The show has received multiple nominations and was named the TV Development Show of the Year at the 2021 Radio and TV Personality (RTP) Awards. Her media presence extends beyond Ghana, as she is frequently invited to speak on health platforms both locally and internationally, including engagements in Nigeria and other African countries. Her expertise and influence have earned her recognition as an African health expert with a pan-continental impact.

Her global affiliations reflect her commitment to leadership and advocacy. She is a member of the World Health Organization (WHO) Fides, ForbesBLK, UN Women UK Community, and the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Network. In recognition of her advocacy work, she was selected as a delegate for both CSW68 and CSW69 by UN Women UK, underscoring her passion for being a voice for the voiceless.

Academically, Dr. HANNAH-LISA has held several leadership roles, including President of the Federation of Ghana Medical Students Association (FGMSA), National Executive Member of FGMSA, and NMO President of the International Federation of Medical Students Associations (IFMSA). She is currently a graduate student and Commonwealth Scholar at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of London, where she serves as the Students’ Representative for PHDL and the SRC Vice President for Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) and Welfare.

Her humanitarian efforts are deeply rooted in service to marginalized communities. She leads outreach programs that provide free health screenings, medical education, and donations, consistently demonstrating her commitment to health equity and social justice. Through her multifaceted career, Dr. HANNAH-LISA continues to inspire and lead with compassion, innovation, and an unwavering dedication to improving lives across Africa and beyond.

FUNMI ONUMA
General Manager of Silverbird Cinemas in West Africa.

Funmi Onuma is the general manager of Silverbird Cinemas in West Africa. She’s also an advisory board member to the African Film Finance Forum (AFFF). With over 19 years of experience in the film and entertainment industry, Funmi has become a driving force for change and growth in the African film industry. Funmi has an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business and a BSc in Banking and Finance from Lagos State University.

For three consecutive years, she has been honored as one of the top 50 women in global cinema by Celluloid Junkie, a leading and prestigious voice in the cinema world.

During her tenure as the country manager of Silverbird Cinemas, Ghana, for 17 years, she brought about growth in many areas. She and her team have continuously enhanced cinema operations by observing behavior patterns and insights. With this in view, midnight activation was introduced to cater to specific target markets. This strategic approach has significantly boosted the cinema’s reach and impact.

Her exceptional contributions, especially to film technology, have made a lasting impact on the cinema and entertainment industry. Known for her creativity and innovation, she led her team to embrace technological transformation. This brought about the launch of the Silverbird mobile app, providing ease and convenience for cinema enthusiasts to book their favorite movies.

Additionally, she introduced digital systems that automate processes within several departments, improving productivity among the employees. Looking ahead, Funmi Onuma is excited about the growth of Africa’s entertainment and film industry.

JULIET IBRAHIM
President of Women in Film, Television & Media (WIFT) Ghana.

Juliet Ibrahim is a bilingual award-winning actress, Indie filmmaker, director, and president of Women in Film, Television & Media (WIFT) Ghana. With over 100 film credits across West Africa, she is also the founder of Juliet Ibrahim Studios and the Juliet Ibrahim Foundation.

A recipient of multiple Best Director and Best Actress awards, she’s known for her advocacy for women in media and youth empowerment through her “Her STEAM Initiative.”

In 2025, Juliet Ibrahim was appointed Director of Pan African Actors’ Relations by the Actors Guild of Nigeria and appointed to the advisory board of both the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival and the Brampton International Nollywood Film Festival.

Stephanie Karikari
TV Host/Executive Producer, The SK Guide Show

Stephanie Karikari is the founder and CEO of Safari Cosmetics Ltd, a luxury skincare brand launched in 2016, offering innovative products that have earned her the Entrepreneur of the Year Award (Beauty and Cosmetics) in 2021. Born in Ghana and raised in Botswana, she returned to Ghana at 14 and later earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Central University College.

Stephanie’s commitment to social impact continued with the founding of Lumos International Foundation for Empowerment (LIFE) in 2012, focusing on youth education, school development, and entrepreneurial training for young women. She’s also been a vocal advocate for peace and self-worth, speaking at universities and participating in nationwide campaigns.

In media, Stephanie hosts the SK Guide Show, a lifestyle TV program exploring fashion, wellness, travel, and more—designed to inspire and empower viewers. She’s also ventured into film production with Set Studios, debuting her award-winning short film GEM, which has been recognized at international festivals including Stockholm City Festival, Orlando Urban Film Festival, and the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival.

Abokuma Elliis
Events Director, Purple Twirl Events

Abokuma Ellis is a leading voice in luxury event planning in West Africa and the visionary Founder of Purple Twirl Events, one of Ghana’s top-tier event planning companies. With over 15 years of experience, she has curated exceptional weddings, milestone celebrations, and corporate experiences across Ghana and internationally, including in the UAE, Portugal, Kenya, and Mauritius.

Beyond event planning, Abokuma is passionate about the professionalization of the African event industry. She teaches, mentors, and trains emerging planners through workshops and corporate programs, and is currently building The Purple Print, a global education platform for event professionals. Abokuma is also the co-founder of Solemn Events, a premium funeral and cultural event company, and leads Milestones by Purple Twirl, a destination event arm focused on high-end celebrations across borders. Her work combines excellence, strategy, creativity, and a deep love for storytelling through experience.

Rashidatu Yasmine Abdulahi
CEO of 3Music TV

Rashidatu Yasmine Abdulai is the Chief Executive Officer of 3Media Networks, the company behind 3Music TV and the 3Music Awards, and also serves as the Managing Director of Route Mobile.

She is the Founder and Director of Mawal Technologies Ltd. and Manry A. With over 20 years of experience in marketing, Rashidatu has consulted for numerous African startups and currently serves on the boards of several corporations across Ghana, Spain, and India.

Her expertise spans strategic negotiation, business development, project management, and customer experience across the media, ICT, and telecommunications sectors. She previously held leadership roles at Busy Internet Ghana, MainOne Telecom, Tigo/Millicom Ghana, and Vodafone Ghana.

As CEO of 3Media Networks, Rashidatu has been instrumental in driving the company’s growth, innovation, and brand development. She has led 3Music TV into a new era of content creation, audience engagement, and technological advancement, significantly expanding its reach and influence.

Rashidatu is deeply committed to supporting local artists by providing platforms for both emerging and established talents. Her initiatives have helped launch careers and enrich the cultural landscape. She has successfully executed high-profile events, including music awards, women’s brunches, concerts, and cultural festivals, solidifying 3Media Networks’ position as a major force in the entertainment industry.

She is a married mother of three and holds an Executive MBA in Marketing Management from the University of Ghana Business School, along with additional qualifications in telecommunications, project management, salesmanship, and clearing, forwarding, and shipping management.