Entertainment
YLeaderBoard Series 2024: A conversation with iconic Ben Brako
Ben Brako
Bernard George Kobena Brako, the iconic Ghanaian highlife artiste known as Ben Brako, was the esteemed guest on the inaugural episode of the 2024 YLeaderBoard Series.
The YLeaderBoard Series on Y107.9FM, serves as a platform for young individuals to glean wisdom from accomplished figures across various fields, aiming to inspire and empower the youth to reach their full potential.
During an enlightening session on the Myd Morning Show with Rev Erskine, Ben Brako shared captivating anecdotes from his life’s journey, offering insights into his path to success.
Reflecting on his musical career, Ben Brako discussed his evolution within the industry and the sources of his inspiration.
He fondly recalled his early days as a budding musician, noting how effortlessly the lyrics of his popular songs came to fruition.
“I composed many of my songs in Ghana, during my university days, before relocating to the UK. These songs eventually became some of my biggest hits,” he shared.
Acknowledging the dynamic nature of the music industry, Brako emphasised the importance of strategic partnerships for its growth.
He expressed a belief that Ghanaians should unite to champion local music, viewing this responsibility as one that extends beyond industry professionals.
Ben Brako also touched on broader societal issues, lamenting the neglect of creative arts industry, the Ghanaian economy and its populace.
He attributed the prevalence of illegal mining (galamsey) to the failure of leaders to value and preserve Ghanaian customs and culture.
“When you visit rural areas, you see no government assistance; it is the traditional leaders who provide for their people. They understand the culture and know where to seek help,” he remarked.
Eddy Blay, Y107.9FM’s Programmes Manager, underscored the series’ objective of creating a nurturing and inclusive environment for young people to learn, grow, and connect.
He expressed confidence in the YLeaderboard Series serving as a catalyst for positive change, with each episode featuring distinguished guests sharing their childhood, education, and life experiences to inspire the future leaders of Ghana.
The YLeaderboard Series airs every Wednesday on the Myd Morning Radio Show at 10am, offering a platform for guests to impart invaluable wisdom that can shape the aspirations of Ghanaian youth.
By Spectator Reporter
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
