Accra, Ghana – The morning sun cast a golden glow over Kwae Terrace as some of the most dynamic female minds in Ghana’s creative industry gathered for a landmark event. The energy in the air was electric—this was not just another networking event; it was the birth of something bigger. For the first time, See It Be It, a Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity initiative, had arrived in Ghana, and with it, a mission to empower and elevate women in the creative sector.
The See It Be It initiative, led by Head of Advancing Equitable Access Laura Brown, is designed to create space for women in the creative industry, accelerating careers and working towards gender equality. The goal? Equal representation across all levels of seniority. And in Ghana, where creativity pulses through the streets in music, art, advertising, and storytelling, this mission found fertile ground.
A Movement, Not Just a Meeting
This first-of-its-kind event, organized by Storytellers Co., was led by Yaa Boateng, Co-Founder, Managing Director & Chief Creative Officer. It brought together a powerful network of over 100 female creatives, advertisers, illustrators, and industry leaders. It was more than a conversation; it was a call to action.
Women across various creative fields gathered to share their journeys, challenges, and triumphs. They listened, they learned, and they left emboldened, knowing that they were part of something larger than themselves. See It Be It is not just a mentorship program—it is a global sisterhood, a force that ensures women are not just present but thriving in leadership roles in creative industries worldwide.
Powerhouse Speakers Share Their Stories
The day featured a lineup of accomplished women who have broken barriers in their respective fields. These powerhouse speakers included:
🇬🇭 Norkor Akua Duah – Managing Director, MullenLowe Ghana & IAA Vice President and Area Director, Africa
🇳🇬 Nnenna Onyewuchi – Founder, Barefoot Strategist
🇿🇦 Lauren Mitchell – Creative Director, Joe Public
🇰🇪 Joy Richu – Illustrator, Joy Richu
🇬🇧 Marian Brannelly – Global Director of Awards, Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity
🇳🇬 Esosa Osagiede – Deputy Creative Director, Leo Burnett Nigeria
🇬🇭 Yaa Boateng – Co-Founder, Managing Director & Chief Creative Officer, The Storytellers Co.
Each of them brought a unique perspective to the table, from leadership in advertising to innovation in creative storytelling. Their message was clear: Women must claim their space, support each other, and push the boundaries of what’s possible in the creative industry.
“See It, Be It” – The Power of Representation
One of the most resonant moments of the day came when Yaa Boateng spoke about the power of visibility. “Don’t give up. If you want to join this space, there is a career for you here. Just come through. It’s a sisterhood—we’re here to hold your hand and support you.”
Her words underscored the mission of See It Be It: When women see themselves reflected in positions of power and influence, they realize they too can achieve those heights. The creative industry is evolving, and with initiatives like this, the future looks brighter for women striving for leadership roles.
A Turning Point for Ghana’s Creative Industry
As the event wrapped up, the conversations did not end—they only just began. The connections made will spark collaborations, mentorships, and movements. The presence of See It Be It in Ghana marks a significant step toward a more inclusive and diverse creative landscape.
Ghana’s creative economy is rising. With the right support, infrastructure, and access, the next generation of female creative leaders will not just participate—they will lead. And thanks to See It Be It, the path to leadership has never been clearer.
