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
Taste 68@68: Okyeame Kwame wins Celebrity Jollof Competition with Vegan recipe
Multiple award-winning Ghanaian musician and activist, Okyeame Kwame, known in private life as Kwame Nsia-Apau has been adjudged winner of the ‘Taste 68 @68’ Celebrity Jollof Competition.
The ‘Taste 68 @68’ Celebrity Jollof Competition was an event organised by the Ghana Tourism Authority(GTA) as part of activities to mark the country’s Heritage Month recently.
The event held at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park brought together industry players among others.
Okyeame Kwame competed with Mr.Beautiful, Uncle Ato, Victoria Lebene and Joyce Blessing.
The Rap Dacta called his food, the Vegan Jollof funnily some of the spectators claimed his Jollof could ‘lower global warming’ due to the ingredients used.
He used mushrooms, bell peppers, tomatoes, rice, oil and other vegetables.
The protein source was seitan which is made from wheat gluten.
Ultimately, he overcame other culinary skills from his competitors for the ultimate crown.
Okyeame Kwame expressed his appreciation to everyone who tasted it and urged Ghanaians to consider it as part of their delicacies, adding that it is healthier.
The Deputy Chief Executive Officer of GTA Mr.Gilbert Aggrey, affectionately called Abeiku Santana said Okyeame Kwame won the competition not because he is famous and likeable.
According to him, Okyeame understood gastronomy tourism and techniques in culinary artistry, a strength he leveraged against his competitors.
He added that “if you look at the presentation of his meals he used cucumber to garnish his food by creating a design with his initials, OK, Okyeame Kwame. In gastronomy tourism, there should be a story and motivation behind the food that you have prepared.”
Abeiku Santana further noted that Okyeame Kwame’s presentation was outstanding considering how he linked food to climate change and the symbiotic relationship between humans and animals.
He congratulated him for emerging as the winner of the competition.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
Entertainment
Miss Ghana 2025 finalists unveiled
The talented 16 contestants have been unveiled at a grand ceremony held at the Tang Palace Hotel in Accra last Saturday.
These finalists made the cut following gruelling auditions in November 2024, where young women from across the country showcased their beauty, intelligence, and passion for service.
According to the organisers, the search is for a queen who exemplifies selflessness, intelligence, discipline, and dedication to societal service.
The contestants will go through calculated weekly tasks ahead of the highly anticipated grand finale on March 29, 2025.
Each contestant will now represent their respective regions as they compete for the prestigious Miss Ghana 2025 crown.
Organised by Exclusive Events Ghana and Miss Ghana Foundation, the Miss Ghana pageant is more than just a beauty competition.
As part of the modalities, the winner will not only represent Ghana on the global stage at Miss World but will also lead charitable initiatives under the Miss Ghana Foundation, focusing on supporting vulnerable communities.
The contestants expressed their readiness to prove their mettle in the competition for the ultimate.
This year’s pageant is being sponsored by Bullet TV and supported by Gold Presence, Tang Palace Hotel, Belaqua, Bel Beverages Ghana, Pippa’s Health Centre, Central Hotel, Accra, Airport Women’s Hospital, Renault Ghana, and Premium Motors Limited.
The rest include Dainess Chefs School, Eye360security, Hottees Ghana, Dyeweb fabrics, BELLE cosmetics, Akagres bakery, Blaq travels and Kingdom Books & Stationery among others.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
