Maame Efua Houadjeto, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), has been honoured with the Global Cultural Ambassador award at the Pre-Grammy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles, United States.

She won in the Global Cultural Ambassador category in recognition of her leadership and influence in promoting culture, heritage and global cultural exchange. The awards are part of Grammy Week activities that bring together cultural leaders, creatives, policymakers and global change-makers from around the world.

The ceremony also recognised excellence in social impact, creative leadership, justice advocacy, community development and humanitarian service.

The event was jointly organised by JOBSEEK AI, Los Angeles County Justice Care and Opportunity Department, Prison Professors, PBCG, ANE Foundation, Only Miracles, The Help In Hand Project and Taking Action for Good. The coalition supports empowerment, inclusion, innovation and positive global impact.

Houadjeto attended the ceremony with GTA Board member Prince Anthony and Director of Corporate Affairs Bright Asempa Tsadidey. Their presence highlighted the institutional importance of the award and the Authority’s unified leadership at the international event.

In her acceptance speech, Houadjeto thanked the organisers and used the moment to highlight Ghana’s cultural strengths and invite the world to the nation.

“I am deeply honoured and grateful to the organisers for this recognition. This award is not just personal—it is a celebration of Ghana’s rich culture and heritage. I warmly invite you to Ghana to experience our culture firsthand and enjoy the evergreen hospitality of the Ghanaian people,” she said.

The Global Cultural Ambassador Award highlights Ghana’s rising profile on the world cultural and tourism stage and underscores the Ghana Tourism Authority’s commitment to cultural diplomacy, destination branding and sustainable tourism development.

The recognition also supports Ghana’s broader cultural and creative economy agenda, positioning the country as a welcoming hub for authentic cultural experiences, global collaboration and meaningful cultural exchange.

This report is accompanied by photographs from the award ceremony in Los Angeles.