Entertainment
Buddy Doubara Agedah makes history with Ghana Dance Merit Award
Nigeria’s Buddy Doubara Agedah has made history as the first and only non-Ghanaian, to receive the prestigious Ghana Dance Merit Award for Afro-Latin Dance Development in West Africa (2025), an accolade awarded purely on merit.
This remarkable achievement not only recognizes his exceptional contributions to Afro-Latin dance but also solidifies his legacy as a cultural pioneer and ambassador of dance excellence.
This event, the second Ghana Dance Industry (GHADI) Awards, took place on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at the National Theatre.
A Trailblazer in Dance and Cultural Exchange
Buddy’s influence transcends borders. As the Founder and Director of Dance & Art Alive and the West Africa Afro-Latin Dance Festival, he has redefined social dance culture, creating platforms that celebrate creativity, cultural exchange, and unity.
His vision has empowered young talents to pursue their dreams and showcased the richness of Afro-Latin dance on a global stage.
Mentorship and Shaping the Future of Dance
Buddy’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of dancers is unparalleled. By creating opportunities for emerging talents, he has paved the way for many to build successful careers.
His international cultural exchange initiatives have connected dancers from Nigeria, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Benin Republic, and beyond. Many of his mentees are now influential figures in the industry, a testament to his role as a visionary mentor.
From Judge to Cultural Icon
Buddy’s integrity and expertise earned him roles as a dance judge on top platforms like the Maltina Family Dance All reality TV show, Society for the Performing Arts in Nigeria Salsa championships, and other international competitions, including a prestigious event in Ivory Coast.
His guidance and evaluations have inspired excellence, shaping the careers of countless dancers.
Advocacy Through Dance
Buddy is more than a dancer; he’s a social advocate. By integrating health awareness campaigns, including breast cancer screenings, into major dance events, he has redefined the purpose of art as a tool for social change.
His creative approach has saved lives and inspired communities.
A Legacy of Excellence and Inspiration
With a career spanning over two decades, Buddy’s journey from Dance & Art Alive to international acclaim is a testament to his passion, creativity, and purpose.
He continues to inspire through his innovative approach, cultural diplomacy, and commitment to social advocacy.
Entertainment
Nineteen57 Events announces Black Stars Legacy Awards
Nineteen57 Events has announced the launch of an event aimed at celebrating Ghanaian, African, and diaspora achievements.
The event is a prestigious platform dedicated to honouring exceptional individuals and organizations contributing to the growth and success of the Ghanaian society, the African continent, and the African diaspora.
Since its inception as part of Rhythms on the Runway in 2019 during Ghana’s historic Year of Return celebration, the Black Star Legacy Awards has recognized remarkable achievements in creative arts, culture, and beyond.
It has always been a component of ‘Rhythms On Da Runway,’ however, the organisers have decided to stage it as an independent event this year.
This shift allows for an expanded focus, honouring excellence across various fields, including business, leadership, innovation, science, and humanitarian efforts.
This bold move aligns with the awards’ mission of celebrating the spirit of achievement and innovation that defines Ghana and connects it to the broader Pan-African and global community.
While specific event details, including categories and selection criteria, are still being finalised, the Black Star Legacy Awards promises to be an unforgettable experience that highlights the very best of Ghana, Africa, and the diaspora.
Esteemed icons from Ghana, Africa and the African Diay such as Obrafour, Ricci Osei, Hon. Lisa Hanna, Reggie Rockstone, Queen Asabea Cropper, Nene Agyemang, Agya Koo Nimo, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, Morgan Heritage, Stonebwoy, and Richard Mofe Damijo have been among the honorees, setting the stage for what has become a highly anticipated annual celebration of excellence.
Entertainment
Zhikay Junior launches ‘The mind shift campaign’
Ghanaian award winning gospel blogger Isaac Nartey, popularly known as Zhikay Ike Junior, and his team have launched a campaign at Sap’s School in Teshie-Nungua, located in the Ledzokuku-Krowor Municipal Assembly in the Greater Accra region.
Themed ‘The mind shift campaign’, it was aimed to touch the lives of students by educating them on the use of social media and how it can impact lives.
Isaac Nartey, told The Spectator that the purpose of the campaign was to orient students in Ghana about social media and its impact.
Sharing photos from the campaign on Facebook, Zhikay also emphasised the importance of listening to children’s concerns, which include mental health, emotions, and societal acceptance.
“We must not consider children as just minors, they have genuine concerns that revolve around mental health, emotions, societal acceptance and others. We must create avenues for their voice to be heard,” He explained
The campaign included education, games, and entertainment. Some students received customized ‘Zhikay’ items as rewards for their hard work.
This initiative seems to be made a positive impact on the students.
‘The school tour will delve into the overview of social media and how it can be used to impact society positively,’ he added
Zhikay embarked on the tour with popular Ghanaian content creators such as “Freedom Official” and “Quecy Official.” Together, they created an educational and engaging atmosphere for the students.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
