Ghanashowbiz.blogspot.com

Francis Addo Wins 2021 Model Publicist Award

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Thu, 14 Oct 2021 01:31:00 -0700

Francis Addo

Ghanaian entertainment journalist and publicist, Francis Addo has received an award for Model Publicist of The Year at the just ended 2021 Ghana Models Award (GMA).

Francis who’s career spans over 15years is an entertainment editor with the biggest private-owned newspaper in Ghana, Daily Guide. He also runs @Ghanareporter on Instagram.

He won the award for his dedication to promoting models and the fashion industry in general.

The GMA is an annual ceremony that honours excellence in Ghana’s fashion and modeling industry. The 2021 event was the 4th edition and it was held at the AMA City Hall in Accra on September 18.

Awards were handed out to several other stakeholders including Edem Debrah and Anita Ofori who were adjudged

Male & Female Models of the Year respectively.

TV personality, Angela Bamford also received an honorary award: The Citizen & Philanthropist Award for her charity engagements in recent times while Transformational Drive & Advocacy for 'Modern Tourism' Award also went to revered radio personality Abeiku Santana.

Francis Addo, the Model Publicist Award winner is also a known publicist for top celebrities as Yvonne Nelson and Yvonne Okoro among others.

But the year under review he worked with some models including supermodel Victoria Michaels and had also projected a lot of happenings in the fashion and make-up industry.

Francis Addo

By: Nartey Kweku Isaac

Akumaa, Yvonne Nelson Honoured At ATEA Awards

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 00:44:00 -0800

Yvonne Nelson

Top female showbiz personalities Akumaa Mama Zimbi and Yvonne Nelson were Saturday honoured at the 2020 edition of the African Tertiary Entrepreneur Awards (ATEA).

This was in appreciation for their dedicated service, devotion and commitment to the media space in Africa and also their selfless entrepreneurship attitude across the continent.

Akumaa Mama Zimbi

ATEA is a scheme founded by Aketesia Group Of Companies to encourage business minded students to start small or go into entrepreneurship.

It recognizes and rewards students who are doing well in their various industries.

This year’s edition was held at the Tomreik Hotel in Accra and was attended by a number of personalities.

Different awards were handed out to young people in different categories.

Akumaa and Yvonne who recently graduated from Ghana Institute of Management & Public Administration (GIMPA) after her masters program in international relations were presented with citations at the ceremony.

By Francis Addo

Galle Ansah Out With Second Single ‘Na So‘

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 00:34:00 -0800

Galle Ansah

By Francis Addo

Actress & singer, Galle Ansah is not holding back on music career as she is out with a new single titled Na So.

The beautiful piece has been released on Wednesday November 18 and different streaming platforms.

It is her second single since she announced that she has added music to her creative calling.

‘“Na So’ reflects bits and bits of the lessons we learn in life as individuals and I’m no exception”, Galle said on Tuesday.

“Art to me, is a form of expressing one’s deeper intent, sentiments and thoughts. At some point, we all experience betrayal, we think of giving up when the going gets tough, we wish we had better lives than we have, etc. and to deal with all these emotions, I pen them so to share with others who may be or have been dealing with such sentiments, to let them know they are not alone and that it is what is in life, hence ‘Na so’(a Nigerian pidgin adapted). Thanks to the great people behind me, I am able to reach the world with my message,” she added.

Na So is a contemporary high life song with a blend of blues and salsa vibes. It is a beautiful piece from the YOLO actress.

It is Galle’s second song after the release of the song, Changing. Both songs are available on; Apple Music,Spotify, Boomplay, Aftown, Deezer music, Amazon music, Shazam,Tidal, Sound cloud and Audiomack.

The award winning actress’ style of music is unique and she is expected to build large following in no time with the new music.

Miss Ghana Makes History At 2020 Models Award

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 00:29:00 -0800

Miss Ghana 2020 Monique Agbedekpui

Miss Ghana 2020, Monique Agbedekpui has won Female Runway Model of the Year at the 2020 edition of the Ghana Models Award at the Alisa Hotel in Accra on Saturday.

She has become the first ever queen to pick the award during her reign as Miss Ghana.

The Ghana Models Award, organized by Shine Publication is platform to recognize and honour hard working models both home and abroad. The third annual event was supported by the Models Association of Ghana, the Creative Arts Council, UNAIDS and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.

“This scheme seeks to celebrate professional models who are excelling in their field of work in Ghana and may not be of Ghanaian descent; including Ghanaian professional models working abroad", Founder of the award, Jerry Wonder Sampson stated in an address on Saturday.

This event was with a lot of excitement. Top models Roselyn Ashkar and Felix Owusu won the 2020 Overall Female and Male Models respectively.

Both models had exceptional modeling year with strings of local and international jobs.

Other winners include Anita Ofori who took home female Editorial /commercial model of the year, Most Promising male Model of the year went to Sylvester Okyere while, Bikini/ Lingerie Model of the Year also went Prisca Abah.

Fitness Model of the Year, Video Vixen of the year and Child Model of the year award were also won by Samuel Owusu Baah, Lyna Promise and Asher F. Essilfie respectively.

Super model Vitoria Michaels took home two Special Awards including Excellence with Leadership and Motivation Drive and Model with A Purpose awards.

Excellence with Entrepreneurship Drive was taken by Zenobia Bouchedid while Lifetime Achievement and Mentorship Award went to Herman Mcmillan.

By Francis Addo

Ghana Movie Awards Opens Entries For 2020

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Sun, 15 Nov 2020 15:31:00 -0800

Organisers of Ghana Movie Awards (GMA) have begun accepting entries for the 2020 edition of the award ceremony, which will come off in the last week December.

The deadline for submissions is November 20, 2020. The GMAs is an initiative by GP Productions and its partners to reward excellence in the movie industry in Ghana.

It gives Ghanaian filmmakers and others from the African continent the opportunity to be recognised for their efforts at telling the African stories to both Africans and the rest of the world during the period under review.

Organisers of the scheme have announced that it is accepting feature length films and other genres

for the consideration by its jury.

The jury will consider relevant stories, methods of storytelling, technical excellence and other important factors of filmmaking in its quest to choose winners for the award.

The main award ceremony will take place on December 30. November 20 will kick start process of choosing winners.

For now further details about submission can be found on Ghanamovieaward.com.

By By Francis Addo

Acting made me a good kisser – Jeffrey Nortey

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Wed, 13 May 2020 12:14:00 -0700

Jeffrey Nortey

Jeffrey Nortey, an actor, TV presenter and spoken word artist, says he learnt how to be a good kisser through acting in the movies. However, he refused to tell the whole world which actress he enjoyed kissing with.
Jeffrey is currently one of the newest faces who have brought some freshness into the Ghanaian TV screens.

He is not only a good actor but a man of multifaceted talents. In this interview with NEWS-ONE’s Francis Addo, he opened up about his acting career.

Below is the entire interview:

How has Jeffrey been coping in this COVID-19 pandemic era?

It’s been tough for me; I have got a few pending scripts and unfinished projects. But I am taking precautions and hoping for the best.

Has the outbreak affected you in any way?

Yes, it has. It has affected my career. I can’t go on set because we are adhering to the social distancing protocols and cinemas are closed. And I must say, it has actually affected the world, but we are hopeful.

How is the movie industry doing in these hard times?

The truth is; even before this corona, the industry was facing challenges and this has made matters worse. Due to social distancing, we can’t go on set. I wonder if anyone will even give or rent a building for production. My fear is; will investors love to put their money in film after this pandemic?

What do you make of comments that the virus will be with us for a long time?

Well, according to experts, the virus stops moving when we stop moving, and take precautions. So if we really take the precautionary measures seriously, things will be better. I am a positive person; I don’t believe this virus will be with us for long. This too shall pass soon.

Let’s talk about Jeffrey. Who is he?

Jeffrey Nortey is a graduate of Jayee University, an actor, TV presenter and a spoken word artist. Let’s do the basics, and hey I am a proud Ghanaian.

Acting and spoken words; how did it all start?

Whew! I must say I am one of the few actors who at a younger age wanted to be on TV and act. It’s been my passion since I knew how to read and write. I have always had it in mind. Unlike spoken word, I started not long ago but God has been good. I am yet to do more, and I mean it.

What was your first paid job when you got in the movie industry and how much did you make?

(Laughs) My first paid job was sometime in 2013. It was a movie. I was favoured. The production has money, young producer and didn’t want to be painted black. Trust me, I can’t remember how much that was. Biggest pay so far? Hmmm… The figure might either scare some people who want to work with me. Please, let me be on the safer side.

Before getting into the scene, what was your perspective and has that changed since you joined?

Well, as I said it has been my dream. I was not thinking of the money, I didn’t even know it was lucrative. I just realised I needed money to do a lot, and the fact that it’s a million dollar industry depends on how you see it and how you brand yourself.

What are some of the movie productions you have been part of so far?

‘Dance With The Devil’, ‘Heels & Sneakers’, ‘De Ja Vu’, Iroko TV’s ‘Counter Trade’, ‘Once Upon A Family’ and’ Julor’. These are the few I am proud of, but more to come.

Which of the productions will you consider is dearest to your heart and why?

Very difficult question. I learn from every production and appreciate every production I have been on. There has been no favourite so far.

Which one of the female actresses do you enjoy acting with?

I believe the few I have worked with, I have not had a second chance with them, so I can’t judge now. Maybe when we have this interview again, when we are talking about my Oscar movie (laughs).

Have you ever been in a sex for role situation, and how did you deal with it?

Never! Sometimes I imagine how the approach is going to be like.

Many have asked questions about kissing roles. Have you had any exciting and bad moments you want to share?

First of all, let me confess acting made me a good kisser. I didn’t want to disgrace myself. I remember kissing my mirror often in the name of practising. I am professional about this thing called acting; I handle it like any other scene.

You are passionate about spoken words. Where does your energy come from?

Hmmm… God will take the praise. I don’t even know how I started, story for another day. Energy? I put in my 100 in everything I do. Trust me, if I wake up a singer or rapper, other musicians will be in trouble (laughs).

Where do you come from?

I come from Dodowa, to be precise.

Which schools did you attend?

For primary, I went to Cosmos Basic School. I attended three secondary schools; St. Thomas Aquinas, Mampong Presec and Ghanata Senior High School. After SHS, I went to Ghallywood to study acting then went to Jayee University to read journalism and public relation.

Growing up, what did you want to become? And why?

(Laughs) I have always wanted to become an actor. Even the devil is not surprised I am acting.

Is Jeffrey married? If not, what is he waiting for?

(Laughs) Please, I am not married. When I am sound physiologically, mentally, financially and I meet a lady that will give me peace, I will settle.

Have you dated anyone in the movie industry before?

No, please.

If you look back at your career, will you say stardom has helped you?

I didn’t even think of fame growing up. I later realised it comes with the job. Yes, it has helped and helping. I mount certain platforms I don’t think I would ever had had if not for exposure. My family is proud of me. And also, God is going to make me more famous because He and I know, we have got work to do with it.

Nollywood Actor Denies Receiving ‘Powers’ From Prophet

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Wed, 13 May 2020 11:02:00 -0700

Zubby Michael

Nollywood actor Zubby Michael has denied claims that Prophet Chukwuemeka Ohanaemere is his pastor.

On his Instagram page, Michael also bashed Nigerians for claiming that he got spiritual powers for his Nollywood success from Odumeje.

The 35-year-old claimed that the clergyman is only his friend, adding that during his housewarming party, Odumeje ‘sprayed’ over N1 million in cash on him while he reciprocated the gesture by giving N500,000 during his birthday party.

“The lion, Odumeje. Where is he leading you all? You guys can enjoy all the drama but I hate it when you say, ‘that’s where Zubby got powers from, he made Zubby successful’,” Zubby explained.

“Are you sick? The thunder that will fire those making such claims will come from Adamawa! I’m not denying he’s my friend way back from Onitsha. But does that mean I go there to pray?”

The actor added that although he doesn’t go to church, he is a spiritual person.

“I hate it when you tag me in your unnecessary drama. Especially Tunde Ednut. Are you stupid? Why are you promoting unnecessary drama? Don’t you see what others promote? You’re a fool. I’m saying this because of my fans,” Nigeria’s Daily Post quoted him for attacking popular singer Tunde Ednut, who also made the allegation.

4th Africa Make-Up & Beauty Fair In March

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Thu, 6 Feb 2020 13:09:00 -0800

Rebecca Donkor

The fourth edition of the Africa Make-Up & Beauty (AMB) Fair returns to Accra in March amidst Ghana’s Independence Day celebrations.

The AMB Fair is Africa’s largest beauty trade fair that provides an opportunity to connect local and international beauty brands and products to experience awe-inspiring artistry from beauty practitioners.

It is organised by Make-Up Ghana as one of its flagship events aside from its Ghana Make-up Awards.

This year’s event is scheduled to take place at the Event Haven, Trade Fair in Accra from March 6 to 8, 2020 under the theme: ‘Evolve’.

It would provide opportunities for practitioners in the beauty industry to network and promote their brands.

According to Rebecca Donkor, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Make-Up Ghana, this year’s fair would be awesome as it is being packaged to the benefit beauty practitioners and their clientele.

“We are getting things ready to give beauty consumers and enthusiasts from all across Africa three days of awesomeness at AMB Fair 2020. There will be huge discounts on beauty products from leading African and global brands in make-up, skincare, hair and bridal accessories – the battle of the brushes and combs. You can’t miss it,” she stated.

A number of beauty brands from around the African continent would be taking part in the fair. Meanwhile, organisers are also inviting exhibitors who want to showcase their products at the fair to come on board.

In December 2019, organisers also announced actress Zynnell Zuh as the brand ambassador for the fair. She is expected to project the beauty brand leading up to the event in March.

By Francis Addo

Patoranking Launches Scholarship Fund For Ghanaian Students

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Thu, 6 Feb 2020 12:48:00 -0800

Patoranking

Nigerian dancehall artiste Patoranking has partnered with the African Leadership University (ALU) to launch the ALU Patoranking Scholarship Programme.

The scholarship aims to provide financial assistance to several young exceptional leaders and changemakers from across Ghana and give them the tools, skill set and connections to succeed at ALU.

The idea for the collaboration was born from a conversation between Patoranking and Fred Swaniker, the founder of ALU and one of the world’s 100 most influential people, according to TIME magazine.

Patoranking recalled being accepted into the University of Cape Coast (UCC), but due to lack of funds, he wasn’t able to further his education.

He has taken it upon himself to discover and help more entrepreneurial spirits who would bring positive change to their home country and contribute to the world as a whole.

“I believe exceptional leaders and changemakers can come from anywhere. Financial constraints should not prevent the next great African innovators from gaining the tools, skill sets and networks to bring their ideas to life,” Patoranking said while speaking at a school he visited in Lagos, Nigeria.

The students chosen to be the inaugural ALU Patoranking scholars must be resilient, driven, innovative, creative, mission-driven, have demonstrated positive impact in their communities and come from a lower-income background.

Beginning the ‘Fall’ semester in September 2020, the scholarship would cover education and accommodation expenses towards ALU at either its Mauritius or Rwanda campuses.

For consideration, applicants must first apply and be admitted to ALU before applying to ALU Patoranking Scholarship. The closing date for applications is on March 17.

Victoria Michaels Featured In Latest Magazine Italy

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Mon, 3 Feb 2020 13:18:00 -0800

Victoria Michaels and another model

Victoria Michaels

Top model Victoria Michaels has begun the fashion year standing tall, bold and colourful in a brand new editorial feature ‘Holi Blar’ for Latest Magazine Italy.

This makes the list of her many international features as a successful fashion icon.

The bilingual, international fashion magazine is more than a fashion magazine. Latest is described as the perfect manual for fashionistas with a passion for fine arts and luxury met with eco-sustainability.

In the magazine issues, you can find world-class editorials from major players and highly-respected teams across the fashion industry, fresh advice on seasonal trends, reviews of art exhibitions, interviews with famous fashion personalities and many more.

Victoria was photographed by Lior Susana, styled by Vittoria Rossi Provesi and made up by Elena Gentile for the editorial.

The feature follows the recent success of Fashion Connect Africa Fashion Show, for which she was the brand ambassador.

Victoria is one of the hardworking models on the African continent, and she keeps growing each year.

By Francis Addo

Disciplined Ladies Tasked To Join Miss Ghana 2020

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Mon, 3 Feb 2020 12:56:00 -0800

Inna Patty with Miss Ghana 2019 Rebecca Kwabi and a traditional leader

The organiser of the Miss Ghana pageant, Exclusive Events Ghana Limited (EEGL), says it is still committed to producing beauty queens who will prioritise serving their country via the pageant’s charity organisation and social intervention programmes.

The 2020 edition of the country’s oldest pageant is scheduled to come off at the end of April at the National Theatre in Accra.

It was launched on Wednesday, January 29 at the Tang Palace in Accra.

There would also be an audition in Accra on February 29 to select potential queens.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of EEGL, Inna Patty, who spoke at the launch ceremony, encouraged well-cultured, disciplined and intelligent ladies to take part in the 2020 event.

“At EEGL, we are inspired by 2020. It is a unique year in which we hope to achieve our most important goal of finding young women who are really passionate about what the Miss Ghana brand symbolises. Patriotic young ladies who are ready to carry the Ghana flag with purpose and pride both at home, abroad and for the rest of their lives,” she said.

“I know there are beautiful, cultured, intelligent and disciplined young ladies out there. Do please join the Miss Ghana wagon, so together, we can fulfil our shared interest,” she added.

She also revealed that the organisation would allow participation from young Ghanaian women from the Diaspora.

Over the years, the Miss Ghana pageant has carved an impressive niche as that pageant that generates awareness to various socio-economic problems, collaborates with government institutions and corporate firms in sending relief to various deserving communities across the country.

EEGL disclosed that this year’s event won’t be just about beauty.

Miss Ghana 2019 Rebecca Kwabi, who also spoke at the event, described her reign as eventful.

“Through this journey, I have had a lot of privileges and I must admit that it has been under the commitments, hard work and tactical discipline of Exclusive Events, amongst others.

I have become tougher and more focused through it all (even including the criticisms and mockery from the media). Thankfully, Miss Ghana Foundation remains focused on its beauty with a purpose agenda, which is for the benefit of the larger society,” she indicated.

Wednesday’s launch was attended by showbiz personalities, sponsors and traditional rulers. Among them were Okyeame Kwame, Akumaa Mama Zimbi, Nii Adjetey (Abokobi Mantse), Nii Narku Teinor III and a host of others, with Edem Smith as the MC.

By Francis Addo

High Life Star Kofi B Dies After Complains Of Heart Ache

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Mon, 3 Feb 2020 12:40:00 -0800

Kofi

Highlife musician Kofi B, who is best known for his silky voice, has passed on.

He died on Sunday, February 2 at about 3:00 am at Abease Dominase in the Central Region, where he went to perform at a birthday party of a chief in the area.

Fellow musician Kofi Nti, who was with him at the time the incident occurred, confirmed his unfortunate death on Sunday. He told Accra-based Peace FMthat Kofi B complained of “heartache” before he died.

Other media reports said that he went to knock on Kofi Nti’s hotel room door to beg him to take him to the hospital, but didn’t survive.

“Kofi B was screaming at me because he wanted to rush to the hospital but passed out when I returned with the key. I quickly rushed him to the hospital where he began vomiting,” Kofi Nti told Adom FM.

According to him, the ‘Mmobrowa’hitmaker was restless and struggled to breathe when they got to the Abease Dominase Hospital.

“Kofi B was restless so I had to hold him so that the doctors can work on him when he finally gave up the ghost,” he revealed.

Born Kofi Boakye Yiadom, Kofi B was known as one of Ghana’s amazing contemporary highlife musicians who stayed true to the rudiments of the genre.

He came to the limelight with his solemn and thought-provoking hit song ‘Mmobrowa’.

He had always wanted to be a lawyer and felt he happened to be in music by chance even though his family has a liking for music.

He was inspired by Amakye Dede, Kojo Antwi, Ofori Amponsah and the late Opampuo.

Some of his popular songs include ‘Twa Me Keke’, ‘Mmobrowa’, ‘Aserewa’, ‘Koforidua Flowers’, ‘Sika Dwa’, ‘Belinda’and ‘Akua Ataa’. He has also won awards with his music.

His death came as a shock to many. A number of Ghanaians took to their social media platforms on Sunday to express their condolences.

Music producer Fred Kyei Mensah described him as great talent. “This week has been a bad week for me. Have lost two talents. Rest well Kofi Boakye alias Kofi Bee. #Blackweek,” he wrote on Facebook.

“Kofi B was more than a musician I managed; he was family to me….May he Rest In Peace,” KOD also wrote Facebook.

Very sad to hear of the passing of one of the most talented musicians I managed from day one. Kofi B was an exceptionally talented musician and it was a delight spending time with him in the studio with Ofori Amponsah at the turn of the last millennium. Sleep well B,” KOD also added in a tweet.

By Francis Addo

Gender Minister Pledges Support For Miss Ghana

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Thu, 11 Apr 2019 01:44:00 -0700

Gender Minister Cynthia Morrison, Inna Patty, Miss Ghana 2018, Nana Ama Benson and Mr. Ghana

Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection Cynthia Morrison, Minister for Gender, Children & Social Protection, has pledged to support the Miss Ghana brand to win back its old glory. The minister, who is obviously not happy with how some persons have been soiling the Miss Ghana brand, said she would be helping showcase the positives about the oldest and the longest running annual beauty contest in Ghana. This, she believes, would make the brand more attractive than it is now. “Now that I am involved in the pageant, I will make sure that positives are mostly spoken of,” she announced on Friday. She was speaking at the launch of the 2019 edition of Miss Ghana pageant at Tang Place Hotel in Accra when she made the announcement. The Miss Ghana brand has, in the last few years, suffered negative publicities after three former winners of the pageant came out in December 2017 to paint a gloomy picture of the beauty event, alleging that they were ‘pimped’ by the organisers. The queens‒ Stephanie Karikari (Miss Ghana 2010), Antoinette Delali Kemavor (Miss Ghana 2015) and Giuseppina Nana Akua Baafi (Miss Ghana 2013) ‒ spoke to entertainment website Ghanacelebrities.com and claimed that they were ‘pimped’ to raise money to support the pageant run by Inna Mariam Patty and Exclusive Event Ghana. Inna Patty denied the claims and is currently pursuing the case in court to clear her name and that of Exclusive Events. Madam Morrison pointed out that it’s high time people let go of the negativity and talk positive about the pageant because the ladies who take part in the pageant are not only beautiful but also intelligent, and that must be used in a positive way to support society. “This time around all the participants should be involved in the projects. Once you decide to be in the contest, it means you have something that you want to share with the world because everyone who steps out there thinks she is going to be a winner. Isn’t it? So if she is going to be a winner, she has an idea about what to do. So let’s kill that dream,” she appealed. Currently, the 2019 Miss Ghana pageant is scheduled for July. Prior to that, there will be an audition in the Greater Accra Region in May to search for potential winners.

Trigmatic Stages ‘My Life’ Concert After Accident

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Thu, 21 Mar 2019 07:13:00 -0700

Trigmatic and the accident car

Rapper Trigmatic will be staging ‘My Life’ concert this Friday in Kumasi days after he was involved in a car accident.
The rapper was travelling back to Accra from Takoradi, where he had gone to give a talk at a seminar on artiste and media relations as part of the RTC Western Music Awards.
The driver of the rented car he was travelling with drove into an articulator truck parked on the road with no warning signs.
The accident took place on Sunday, March 17, 2019, around 6:30, but no one got injured in the process. “We thank all well wishers for their prayers and support. Let’s continue to thank God for his grace and Trigmatic’s life, whiles (sic)pushing for safer roads and driving in our country,” Trigmatic said in a statement on Monday.
The ‘My Life’ concert in Kumasi is part of his nationwide 10-year music anniversary tour and to thank God for saving his life.
The concert will come off at the Ol’lady Sport Bar & Lounge in Kumasi on March 22, with supporting performances from Flowking Stone, Captain Planet, Ypee, G-West, Kankam, Safoa Band and a host of others.
The tour will subsequently move to Takoradi in April for fans out there to experience him.

Chichi Neblett Wins Award In USA

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Thu, 21 Mar 2019 06:46:00 -0700

Chichi Neblett

Actress Chichi Neblett’s ‘Brown Sugar; The Wedding’ movie has been adjudged best film at the 2019 edition of Liberian Entertainment Awards (LEA) in the USA.
This year’s LEA was held at the Howard Theatre in Washington D.C., where a number of Liberian showbiz personalities and filmmakers were honoured for their contributions to their entertainment industry. Among winners were Aminata Jajua, Monsio Couture and Comfort Koon, who were adjudged best model, designer and gospel artiste respectively. Chichi won for the film category with ‘Brown Sugar’, and she has been thanking God and her team for it. “Thanks to all of you for your support. Your votes got this for me…my cast Ike Ogbonna, Toosweet Annan Beverly Afaglo Princess Shyngle Roselyn Ngissah @iam_masterqueen Jonathan Boadu @lovette13 @jplambur_gh @giftywashington & crew; @sammytuger. Here we are….my babe brown sugar the wedding Won best movie at the LEA in the United States. To my strong brother @jayuboye who has been there for me till now. The brain behind the story. We made it..,” she announced the win on Instagram over the weekend. ‘Brown Sugar’ is a film that exposes some of the ills yet-to-be married couples engage in before they finally say ‘I do’. It features some of Africa’s amazing actors from Liberia Ghana, Nigeria and The Gambia. In September 2018, the film registered great numbers at its premiere in Accra at the Silverbird Cinemas. That came on the heels of an earlier successful premiere of the film in Liberia, where the actress was born. A lot of film enthusiasts were at the Silverbird Cinemas at the Accra Mall and West Hills Mall to watch the film. It was subsequently premiered in the UK. Now, it has won best film award in the USA.

‘We Want To Assist Celebrities To Own Properties’- On Point Property Management

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Tue, 19 Mar 2019 08:38:00 -0700

Ann Agyekum, Ama K and Victoria Agyekum

Anna Agyekum-Wilson, CEO of On Point Property Management, has emphasized the need for showbiz personalities to start investing into properties at every level of their careers. Speaking at the launch of her company at the Alisa Hotel in Accra, she said the company which is originally based in the UK has opened its doors to also help celebrities in Ghana achieve their dreams in the property industry. According to her, the company is also ready to assist others to own properties in the UK. “I think it’s important for celebrities to have investments not just in Ghana but also in the UK… So we can talk to them how to invest because we have private client services that we search properties for working individuals,” she told NEWS-ONE recently. Ann and her sister, Victoria Agyekum, launched On Point Property Management Limited in UK in 2015. It is a 360° company which combines, property sourcing (UK & Ghana), bespoke personalised tours to Ghana and Ghana property and lifestyle expo, which takes place annually in London and Atlanta, Georgia USA. The company has been operating in Ghana since 2017, but it was officially launched in Accra last week. The launch was a night of business collaboration and networking for personalities in Accra’s richly diverse property development sector. There were live endorsements from Ms. Anna Owusu-Sekyere, mortgage manager at Stanbic Bank, real estate strategic consultant Mr. Alexander Boadi, CEO at Sunseekers Tours, Mr. Kwame Ansong, Mr. Richard Boateng, CEO at ABM Attorneys at Law in Ghana, and Mr. Samuel Amegayibor, the executive secretary at Ghana Real Estate (GREDA). The night was hosted by award-winning actress, TV presenter and producer, Ama K Abebrese, with special guests, including Mr. Akwasi Ababio (CEO, Diaspora Affairs Office), Mr. Akwasi Agyemang (CEO, Ghana Tourism Authority) and TV star Cecilia Anno-Barnieh coming out to support. Many property development companies like Gold Key, Devtraco Limited, Saka Homes, Lakeside, Beaufort Properties, Green Park Properties, Whitewall Properties, Herfta Properties, The Greens, Imperial Homes, Waylead and JL Properties were also in attendance.

‘I Am No More Called Obrafour’

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Tue, 19 Mar 2019 08:32:00 -0700

Rap Sofo

Renowned hiplife artiste Michael Kwabena Okyere Darko says he does not want to be called by his stage name, ‘Obrafour’, anymore. The rapper, who rose to fame with the release of his much-acclaimed album titled ‘Pae Mu Ka’ in 1999, has decided to drop his stage name. Speaking with Franky 5 on This Is Gospel on Hitz FM, the artiste revealed that he prefers the name ‘Rap Sofo’. “Now I wouldn’t want to be called Obrafour anymore. I am saying this for the first time here,” the rapper said. When asked why he decided to let go of the name ‘Obrafour’ and stick to ‘Rap Sofo’, he stated that he was divinely influenced to use the latter name. “I don’t know. There is something pushing me. I have said that I wouldn’t want to do anything in my own will and accord but wait to hear the voice of God,” he added. The rapper also revealed that the Twi word ‘sofo’, which means pastor, has had an effect on him ever since the accolade ‘Rap Sofo’ was added to his stage name, ‘Obrafour’. Michael Kwabena Okyere Darko indicated that he chose the name ‘Obrafour’, which means executioner, at the beginning of his career, though he had first been referred to as ‘Rap Sofo’ because he wanted to sanitise hiplife music. He explained that the genre had been regarded by many, especially the elderly, as one that lacks meaningful content. “I realised that hiplife at that time was just for the youth. The elderly were not part of it because the words in the songs at that time did not convey any meaning. People thought it was empty noise. So I told myself it will need somebody in the calibre of the executioner at the palace to bring sanity into hiplife,” he said. The rapper said his friends initially referred to him as the ‘Rap Sofo’ because the content of his songs ‘cut deep’. He said he opted to add ‘Obrafour’ to ‘Rap Sofo’ at the time due to his urge to purge the genre of all negativity. But he has gone past that stage now and wishes to be known only as ‘Rap Sofo’.
- myjoyonline

‘Gov’t Can’t Build Creative Arts Industry In 4 Years’

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Mon, 18 Mar 2019 18:01:00 -0700

Ecow Smith Asante

Actor Ecow Smith-Asante is not convinced any Ghanaian government can build or help develop the creative arts industry the way it should within a period of four or eight years. Speaking in an interview with NEWS-ONE, he said because showbiz is always the least on the priority list of every party which comes to power, “the problems of this our industry cannot be solved by governments.” “If they take oil, education and roads, all these things are good for the country. I mean these are basic necessities that every country should have. So until they solve all these things, which I doubt, they ever finish. Our industry which is the showbiz industry is always like a top-up. They are not realising the income it can generate because they have not paid attention it because they don’t understand it,” he indicated. However, Ecow believes that can change if there is a national developmental agenda that all governments must follow. He has suggested there should be a system that requires a developmental blueprint that every Ghanaian government must follow irrespective of political manifestos. That, he explained, would be possible if all Ghanaians agree that there is a need to develop the creative arts industry to balance the country’s economic fortunes. “We should have creative arts or showbiz as part of government’s developmental projects that is not four years or eight years vision because we can’t build an industry within four years. It is like every government comes and out of the four years they don’t even have the luxury of time to achieve what they want to do,” Ecow mentioned. He continued, “It is not possible. So we should have it as part of government developmental agenda that could expand no matter the government that comes into power. Whoever comes will take over this national developmental project and continue from where the other left. So we don’t have to say that it is NPP or NDC that did it.” The actor added that he is currently not enthused with the movie industry because it is not vibrant as it used to be because governments have not done enough to support the industry.
By Francis Addo (fdee50@gmail.com

Inna Patty Sues Ex-Miss Ghana Queens For Defamation

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Mon, 18 Mar 2019 16:41:00 -0700

Miss Ghana 2010 Stephanie Karikari and others have been dragged to an Accra High Court by Inna Mariam Patty and Exclusive Events Ghana Limited (EEGL).
Inna, who is also Miss Ghana 2004 winner and the CEO of EEGL, in a lawsuit spotted by NEWS-ONE, seeks to clear her name of allegations by the ex- queens that she has turned the Miss Ghana pageant into an “escort agency”. In December 2017, three former winners of the Miss Ghana pageant painted a gloomy picture of the beauty event, alleging that they were pimped by the organisers. The queens— Stephanie Karikari (Miss Ghana 2010), Antoinette Delali Kemavor Miss (Ghana 2015) and Giuseppina Nana Akua Baafi )Miss Ghana 2013) — spoke to entertainment website Ghanacelebrities.com and claimed they were sometimes pimped to raise money to support the pageant run by Inna Mariam Patty and Exclusive Event Ghana. Inna had subsequently denied the allegations, but she is also in court to seek a legal redress of the matter to clear her name and the bad image the queens created about the very Miss Ghana brand. The others captured in the lawsuit in addition to the above mentioned queens are Margaret Kuma-Minta (Miss Ghana 2013 first runner-up), Chris Vincent and Ghanacelebrities.com.

By Francis Addo

Luckie Lawson Talks Trokosi Ahead Of 'Like Cotton Twins' At IFFI

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Mon, 21 Nov 2016 06:53:00 -0800

Luckie Lawson

Ghanaian filmmaker and actress Luckie Lawson is hopeful ‘Trokosi’ will be a topical issue at the 2016 edition of International Film Festival of India (IFFI) as Leila Djansi’s directed film about the subject ‘Like Cotton Twines’ screens at the festival this week.
‘Trokosi’ is a practice in rural Ghana, Togo and Benin where traditional religious shrines take young girls, usually virgins, in payment for services or as religious atonement for a supposed offense of a family member still persists.
The actress who played a role in the film is expected to leave Ghana today for the festival in India.
She described the practice as critical and unfortunate, and it needs world attention to stop it.
“It is great opportunity for me attend to this year’s IFFI. It is a big platform for filmmakers from around the world and I am hopeful to network with others who will be attending. ‘Like Cotton Twines’ is a great film which is already making headlines from previous festivals. The issue of Trokosi is critical and I hope talking about it on platforms like this will give attention to it so as to help end it. I don’t understand why a young girl should be paying for a crime she has not committed. It is unfortunate and we must all join hands to condemn it say ‘No To Trokosi’,” Luckie said on Sunday.
‘Like Cotton Twines’ is about a 14-year-old Ghanaian girl who is supposed to become a slave to the gods as part of an appeasement of her father’s sins. She then meets an African-American volunteer who is teaching in her village. It is a touching story.
The film has already been screened at the Savannah Film Festival and the Urban world Film Festival.
It will be screened at the IFFI on November 23 in Goa as one of the masterpiece films of the festival.
The IFFI founded in 1952 is one of the most significant film festivals in Asia. It is held annually in the state of Goa, on the western coast of India. The festival aims at providing a common platform for the cinemas of the world to project the excellence of the film art; contributing to the understanding and appreciation of film cultures of different nations in the context of their social and cultural ethos; and promoting friendship and cooperation among people of the world.

By Francis Addo (Twitter: @fdee50 Email: fdee500@yahoo.com )

Lydia Forson, Funny Face, Others Storm Kumasi With ‘Letter From Adam’ Lydia Forson, Funny Face, Others Storm Kumasi With ‘Letter From Adam’

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 06:31:00 -0700

Popular actress Lydia Forson will be premiering her newly produced movie, A Letter From Adam, in Kumasi this weekend.
The new movie features celebrated actors such as Wale Ojo, Akorfa Ejeani Asiedu, Naa Ashorkor Mensah Doku and Lydia Forson among others. It was earlier premi
ered in Accra at the Silverbird Cinemas, where it received a lot of love from movie enthusiasts.
In what looks like a nationwide tour with the movie, Lydia Forson will be outdooring the movie for Kumasi movie audience at a ceremony at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology (KNUST) CCB auditorium on Saturday, October 25 from 7pm to 9pm. The event is expected to be attended by the cast and some showbiz personalities, including Funny Face and Adjetey Anang among others.
A Letter From Adam is a romantic drama directed by Atlanta-based Ghanaian director Sam Kessie and produced and written by Lydia Forson.
It is a contemporary story about love, loss and hope that will draw audience into a realistic cycle of life seen through the pain of loss, the journey of self discovery and the courage and strength to find hope in the face of adversity. Set in the busy yet simple city of Accra, A Letter From Adam seeks to give the audience an often neglected truth about love—that love doesn’t always come in the form one expects it to.
The rest of its cast include Albert Jackson, Jeff Kumordzie, Louie Lartey, Fred Kanebi and a number of other new faces.

By Francis Addo (Twitter: @fdee50 Email: fdee500@yahoo.com)

Zynnell Zuh Vs Omoni Oboli: Who Best Rocks The Colours?

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 05:52:00 -0700

It is unclear which colours are ruling the red carpet and glamour events lately.
Last weekend actresses Zynnell Zuh and Omoni Oboli attended the premiere of Being Mrs Elliot at the Silverbird Cinemas in Accra on Friday in some unique colours.
Though they both had slightly different colours, their touch of coral, dusty rose, off white and cream colours almost looked the same to eyes.

Zynnell Zuh & Omoni Oboli colours

Omoni Oboli style

Meanwhile colleagues Lydia Forson, Juliet Ibrahim and Chichi Neblett went all black with chain embellishments.
Omoni displayed her sexy ecto-body shape in a cream and coral Ayo Van Elmar evening dress to suit the brand’s blend of Afrocentric fabrics and European elements to create exquisite fusion style.
The dress fits Ayo’s signature and Omoni looked alluring together with her natural hairstyle which gave her an outstanding appearance.
Zynnell nailed a pair of off-white trousers with a dusty rose top by Nady’s collections. Her shoes were also by Nady’s while her purse and other accessories were from Urbanglitz. She was also styled by Nadia.
Both actresses looked beautiful in their dresses; but who do you think rocks?
The new movie is produced by Omoni and is still screening at the Silverbird cinemas in Accra and Weija.

By Francis Addo (Twitter: @fdee50 Email: fdee500@yahoo.com)

New Actor Louie Lartey Says He Is Ready For Scandals

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Tue, 14 Oct 2014 11:11:00 -0700

Louie Lartey

Louie Lartey, a Sociology graduate of the University of Ghana, is one of the new faces in Ghana’s movie industry with an enviable personality.

He was introduced onto the silver-screens this year in Lyd

ia Forson’s newly produced movie, A Letter From Adam, in which he played a plumber.

His character caught the attention of movie fans who were at the movie’s premiere last month at the Silverbird Cinemas in Accra.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with NEWS-ONE’s Francis Addo, Louie says acting is a childhood dream and he won’t hesitate to jump on any future project if he finds the script interesting and a good team to work with.

He also said he was ready for scandals actors are faced with, noting that he has his own way to deal with it.

Your character in A Letter From Adam (ALFA) is interesting. People kept asking, ‘who is he’?

Louie is a young adventurous businessman who has a passion for acting and success in life.

How did you get to be part of ALFA?

Lydia and I go way back and she always knew my passion for acting. So she called me up one day and said she had a part in her new movie she was producing, which she wanted me to play; and I jumped right on it.

Louie Lartey

Did you think she was just pulling your legs when she called?

Not at all. I hadn't heard from her in a while so when she hit me up, I could tell her level of seriousness. She is passionate about what she does and it translated in the conversation we had.

What character did you play in the movie, for the benefit of those who are yet to see it?

I played the plumber...can't reveal too much or I will mess it up for those yet to see lol…man of many purposes.

What was your experience on set? Were there some panic moments?

Well, as a new actor there will always be that element of tension but with a great team like we had, you will end up feeling comfortable; hence bringing the best performance out of you. You will end up living in your acting and not acting in your living.

Did you have expectations for the role, and how would you describe the final performance on the screens now?

Well the only thing I expected was to be very tense but that was scratched as soon as I got on set; and the final performance came out better than I actually envisaged…The crowd laughed at my scenes so I guess that was a good sign.

Are you motivated to continue acting?

Yeah, with a good script and the right cast and team, I don't see why not.

It sounds like there are some actors you will never act with?

Well, no. I didn't mean it like that. It is always good to give new people a shot to discover new talent. But at the same time, you want the right team to work with to bring the best out of you as a beginner.

Louie Lartey

But are there any persons in the acting business that you admire?

Yeah, there are quite a number of them. Locally, I like Lydia; not because of our friendship but her talent and passion. John Dumelo, Chris Attoh, Jackie Appiah ...Yeah, if I were to go through the list, I would keep you here for a while lol. I'd keep you here for a year lol.

Any other actors from the outside world?

Yeah, Will Smith tops the lot. Di Caprio, Denzel Washington, Jennifer Anniston, Wale, Forest Whitaker...should I go on? lol Oh yeah and my personal favourite...Louie Lartey lol.

Where are you from?

I’m from Gbese Manhia; a refined Ga man.

Which schools did you attend?

North Ridge Lyceum for junior high, Presec for senior high school and the University of Ghana, where I met our gifted producer.

Louie Lartey

What did you read at the University?

I studied English, Sociology and French, majoring in Sociology.

Currently what do you do, occupation wise, aside your new profession?

I run a security hardware installation and real estate brokerage business...shortly put, I'm a watchman who sells houses.

Are you married?

No, I’m not married.

What were your childhood ambitions?

When I was a kid, like any other, I had a million and one things I wanted to become lol. But passionately I wanted to become a lawyer...then there was an astronaut...down the line there was an architect too somewhere. I always imagined acting as well. I used to stand in front of the mirror and act out scenes after movies I enjoyed.

The industry is full of scandals, are you ready for it; and how do you intend to stay off scandals?

I personally don't think you can 100 percent avoid them. Even when you try people still cook stuff up; so the best thing to do is to tune my mind that scandalous rumours could arise about me but just bite the bullet and let everyone get to know my personality. Knowing me will surely nullify any scandalous rumours that could arise ...trust me, I know myself.

Thanks for your time.

Thank you.

By Francis Addo (Twitter: @fdee50 Email: fdee500@yahoo.com)

Naa Ashorkor's Marriage Is A Case Of Art Imitating Life-Lydia Forson

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Thu, 9 Oct 2014 06:46:00 -0700

Lydia Forson, KSM and Naa Ashorkor during the days of Perfect Picture

Popular Ghanaian actress Lydia Forson has broken her silence on claims that she pre-empted the marriage of her best friend, Naa Ashorkor Mensah, in her recent produced movie, A Letter From Adams.
According to the bubbly actress, the marriage was a case of “art imitating life,” in relation to her movie.
Naa, who just got married to her long time lover, Ahuma Cabutey Adodoaji, over the weekend, played a supporting actress in Lydia
’s new movie.
Her character name was Kabuki and she also got engaged in the movie and a lot happened around the engagement.
This has heightened speculations on some social platforms about the marriage, the new movie and perhaps what will happen next.
But Lydia Forson told NEWS-ONE yesterday that she knew nothing about Naa’s marriage before she wrote the movie’s script.
Earlier on, she had also denied the movie’s story has got something to do with her personal life.
“I guess it’s just a case of “art imitating life” because I wrote the story in 2010 and even during the movie shoot we used to joke about how real her engagement scene looked. We had fun teasing her about it. “Little did I know she was going to get engaged months later.
“Even the name Kabuki was just purely coincidental. We decided to change the name a few days before the shoot because the initial name just wasn’t working for me. I came up with several names and Naa suggested Kabuki. It started off as a joke but eventually everyone on set caught on to it and it stayed.
“I’m really happy for her and glad in some way my movie will be associated with her special day. I probably will never forget this experience,” Lydia Forson insisted yesterday.
Asked when she heard of the engagement, she said, “let’s just say I knew they would get married someday; so when I heard it, it wasn’t too much of a surprise. But like everyone else the news came unexpectedly.”
The actress turn producer was among some Ghanaian entertainment industry names who attended Naa’s engagement last Saturday.

By Francis Addo (Twitter: @fdee50 Email: fdee500@yahoo.com)

Yvonne Okoro On CNN

fdee50@gmail.com, fdee50@yahoo.com (Ghanashobiz.blogspot.com) — Thu, 9 Oct 2014 06:18:00 -0700

Yvonne Okoro

Yvonne Okoro is being exposed to a global television audience as her face has been on international platform, CNN, for the past few days.
The popular actress, who is respected and loved by thousands of movie fans across Africa and beyond, has featured in a commercial by international manufacturer Philips. The commercial is currently airing on the international television network.
The commercial, shot in Nigeria months ago by a New York agency, Oglivy, is for Philips’ Airfryer, a new kitchen product used for frying, roasting, baking and grilling.
The choice of Yvonne Okoro by the international manufacturer is not surprising because she is largely considered attractive and has a natural flair for brands promotion.
She has also contributed a lot to the African cinema.
At the moment, she is not just an inspiration to the many families who watch her on the screens, she is also a symbol of hard work, respect and that ideal professional woman that many African young ladies aspire to be.
Widely celebrated as an iconic figure of true African beauty with a large following, her voice and personality radiate a good confidence of a woman of character and virtue just as she appeals to a diverse audience.
There is no doubt that her track record of making a significant contribution to Africa’s stake in the creative arts—the world’s biggest business empire—and her vision of growing business conform to Philips’ mission of expanding its market base.

By Francis Addo (Twitter: @fdee50 Email: fdee500@yahoo.com)