In a true celebration of beauty, empowerment, and education, the Kanekalon High School Drive made its grand first stop at St. Mary's Senior High School. This groundbreaking event, organised by Kaneka, a renowned Japanese company specialised in producing quality synthetic hair fibres, on a mission to empower young, smart ladies and boost their confidence with insightful career talks and life coaching sessions through the Kanekalon High School Drive initiative.

The opening of the event began with a prayer by the school’s student chaplain followed by an address from the headmistress of the school. Right after, renowned speakers delivered powerful presentations, expanding the horizons of the student's minds. Kwame Nyantuame, a distinguished speaker, captivated the audience with his thought-striking words on making a mark in the world through positive actions and building a solid personal brand and name for yourself.

Ann Kusi-Gyamfi, affectionately known as Cookie, shared valuable insights on leveraging social media for wealth-making opportunities and becoming a strong brand that attracts global recognition. Additionally, Miss Laura Mills, a marketing executive of Kaneka, provided invaluable knowledge on maintaining healthy hair care practices.

One of the highlights of the event was the recognition of outstanding students who excelled in key areas of academics, sports, hygiene, and conduct. Their dedication and hard work were duly celebrated, inspiring others to strive for excellence. The students were also treated to refreshing beverages courtesy of Twellium Industries, the headline food and beverage sponsor for the entire Kanekalon High School Drive.

The staff and teachers of St. Mary's SHS took the opportunity to express their heartfelt gratitude by presenting the Kanekalon team with a citation of honour and appreciation. It was a testament to the positive impact the event had on the school community and their recognition of Kanekalon's commitment to empowering young women.

The second chapter of the visit to St. Mary's SHS unfolded with the highly anticipated Kanekalon Face of St. Mary's pageant. From the moment the curtains lifted, the Queens of the Milky Way coast set the stage on fire, setting the tone for an incredible journey ahead.

Fifteen exceptional young ladies took the stage, embodying beauty, intelligence, creativity, and talent. Their grand opening act mesmerized the audience, showcasing their multifaceted abilities and talents.

The talent show segment transported everyone into a world of thrills and excitement with great drama, dance and singing performances, leaving no doubt about the extraordinary talents these young ladies possessed.

The entire school community, including students, teachers, staff, and visitors, eagerly gathered to witness the crowning of the new Face of St. Mary's SHS after 3 rigorous rounds of showmanship and eviction.

The climax of the event arrived when the MC Yaa Bitha announced the winner, and the crowd erupted in exhilaration. Miss Jessica Naana Acquaah emerged as the well-deserved winner of the Face of St. Mary's SHS pageant, triumphing over three tough rounds.

Alongside her, Miss Beatrice Kafui Gbeve secured the first runner-up position, and Miss Sylvia Naa Ankrah earned the title of second runner-up. All 15 contestants were praised for their remarkable performances, symbolizing the unity, creativity, power, and strength of young black girls.

In the spirit of uplifting one another, the Kanekalon High School Drive celebrated the support and camaraderie among girls. The event showcased the incredible potential and resilience of young women, inspiring them to embrace their uniqueness and thrive in their endeavours. Queen Jessica Naana Acquaah, with her grace, elegance, and powerful voice, embodied the spirit of the event and became a role model for her peers.

The feedback received from St. Mary's SHS was overwhelmingly positive. Students and faculty expressed their gratitude for the insightful presentations delivered by all the speakers. As the curtains closed on the event at St. Mary's SHS, the students jammed to back-to-back hit tunes by the DJ for the day.
 
The Kanekalon High School Drive team eagerly looks forward to their next school stops, according to their marketing executive Miss Laura Mills, The journey to empower and uplift young women across Greater Accra was just beginning, and the impact of the Drive would continue to resonate for years to come.  

She continued by saying that while education is paramount within the classroom, the Kanekalon High School Drive seeks to emphasise the importance of holistic learning thus it is more than just a series of workshops and activities. It is a transformative experience, a celebration of the boundless potential within every young woman and through their partnership with Darling, Outré, and other esteemed sponsors, they are committed to fostering confidence, beauty, and success in the lives of young females. She ended with a word to all young females out there - “remember that your dreams are within reach. Embrace your beauty, both inside and out, and let your voice be heard”.
 
Stay tuned for the next stop on this empowering journey as the Kanekalon High School Drive continues to inspire, uplift, and empower young women, one school at a time.

Catch them on their journey to Aburi Girls SHS, Krobo Girls Presbyterian SHS, Archbishop Porter Girls SHS, Mfantsiman Girls SHS, and St. Louis Girls SHS throughout May and June. For more information and updates from each school visited or their next stop, kindly follow @BeKanekalon on Instagram.