EMY Africa marked its tenth anniversary on the night of 22nd November, 2025, at the Grand Arena in Accra with measured elegance and a firm reminder of how far the scheme has come.

What began a decade ago has grown into one of the continent’s most credible records of distinction, capturing the work and influence of achievers from Accra to the rest of the world.

This milestone edition brought together statesmen, cultural figures, emerging talents and individuals whose work often happens away from the spotlight but continues to move the continent forward. The atmosphere mixed ceremony with a sense of shared purpose, as the honourees themselves embodied the ongoing story of African achievement.

Performances gave the night its emotional rhythm. Joe Mettle opened with a calm and devotional set that created a steady tone. Efya followed with a controlled and elegant vocal delivery that warmed the hall. Ofori Amponsah shifted the mood with familiar favourites that drew the audience into collective nostalgia.

Adina continued with a touching tribute to Daddy Lumba and to the leaders and legends Ghana lost this year. Samini closed with a burst of energy that lifted the room and sealed the anniversary on a strong note.

Sir Sam Jonah topped this year’s honours as Man of the Year (Man of the Decade). The recognition reflects his long-standing influence across enterprise and public leadership. Afi Amoro, whose creative vision reshaped Ghana’s event production landscape, received Woman of the Year in acknowledgement of her precision, innovation and sustained impact.

The 10th Anniversary honourees included:

● Sam Jonah, Man of the Year (Man of the Decade)

● Afi Amoro, Woman of the Year

● Rev. Dr Chris Tsui Hesse, Lifetime Achievement Award

● Anthony Baffour, Continental Icon Award

● Marcel Desailly, Continental Icon Award

● Dr Osei Kwame Despite, Special Recognition Award

● Tanal Ghanadour, Settler Award

● Dr Samuel Ato Duncan, Asclepian Award (Man of the Year – Health)

● Mathew Asanpambilla Agambire (Bondaana), Discovery of the Year

● Ibrahim Oppong Kwarteng, Humanitarian Award

● Kwabena Dwumfour, PAV Ansah Communicator Award

● Kusi Boye Doe, Designer of the Year

● Gilbert Ampiah, Man of Courage

● Mfantsipim Old Boys Association (MOBA), Group of the Year

● Nduka Obaigbena, Media Excellence Award

● Ambiance by Talata, Brand of the Year

● Ugochukwu Omeogu, The Guardian Award

● Thapelo Mokoena, Actor of the Year

● McKingtorch Africa, Green Corporate Star Award

● Aisha Ayensu, Young Achiever (Female)

● Richard Nii Armah Quaye, Young Achiever (Male)

● Frank Kwakye Jnr., Creative and Support Arts Award

● Prof. Sampson Effah Apraku, Magnate Award

● Fabris Mulindi, Youth Change Maker Award

● Gregory Bortey Promise Newman (King Promise), Man of the Year – Music

● Seth Donkor, Man of the Year – Technology

● Theophilus Nii Kpakpo Allotey, Man of the Year – Sports

● Dr Akin Faminu, Man of Style

Together, they presented a clear picture of Africa today: inventive, resilient, stylish and ambitious.

The night also underlined EMY Africa’s own transformation. What started as an awards scheme has evolved into a cultural institution with a magazine that documents contemporary excellence, an expo that links industry and creativity, and symposiums held in Accra, New York and London that gather thinkers shaping the continent’s future.

Beyond the applause, the evening served as a reminder that African brilliance is deliberate, steady and deserving of recognition. For ten years, EMY Africa has created a space for that recognition, not as spectacle but as a sustained commitment.

About EMY Africa

EMY Africa celebrates the achievements and aspirations of exceptional individuals across the continent. Through its awards, magazine, symposiums and expo, the organisation continues to honour those shaping culture, enterprise and community.

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