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Trace Awards 2025 – All The Winners

The second edition of Trace Awards took place at the Mora Resort, Zanzibar, on Wednesday, February 26, 2025.

 

The event celebrated Africa’s top artists and spotlighted the rich cultural stories that shape their artistry.

 

Over the past three years, Afro-centric  music has steadily dominated global charts, spanning genres like Afrobeats, Amapiano, dancehall, Afropop, Zouk, Kizomba, genge, coupé décalé, bongo flava, gospel, hip hop, kompa, R&B, and rumba.

 

Artists from over 30 countries in Africa, South America, the Caribbean, the Indian Ocean, and Europe are competing in 24 categories.

 

Below is the full list of nominees and announced winners:

 

Global Awards

Song of the Year

  • Tyla – ‘Jump’ (South Africa) *WINNER
  • Tyler ICU – ‘Mnike’ (South Africa)
  • Titom & Yuppe – ‘Tshwala Bam’ (South Africa)
  • Tamsir x Team Paiya – ‘Coup du Marteau’ (Ivory Coast)
  • Asake & Travis Scott – ‘Active’ (Nigeria)
  • Tems – ‘Love Me Jeje’ (Nigeria)
  • Burna Boy – ‘Higher’ (Nigeria)
  • Rema & Shallipopi – ‘Benin Boys’ (Nigeria)
  • Diamond Platnumz – ‘Komasawa’ (Tanzania)

Album of the Year

  • Burna Boy – I Told Them (Nigeria)
  • Asake – Lungu Boy (Nigeria)
  • Rema – Heis (Nigeria) *WINNER
  • Josey – Vibration Universelle (Ivory Coast)
  • Amaarae – Fountain Baby (Ghana)
  • King Promise – True To Self (Ghana)
  • Stonebwoy – 5th Dimension (Ghana)
  • Toofan – Stamina (Togo)

Best Collaboration

  • Titom & Yuppe & Burna Boy – ‘Tshwala Bam’ (Remix) (South Africa/Nigeria)
  • Neyna & MC Acondize – ‘Nu Ka Sta Para’ (Cape Verde)
  • Kocee ft. Patoranking – ‘Credit Alert’ (Cameroon/Nigeria)
  • Asake & Wizkid – ‘MMS’ (Nigeria)
  • Rema & Shallipopi – ‘Benin Boys’ (Nigeria)
  • Odumodublvck & Black Sherif – ‘Woto Woto Seasoning’ (Ghana)
  • Tamsir & Team Paiya – ‘Coup du Marteau’ (Ivory Coast) *WINNER

Best  Music Video

  • Meji Alabi – Rema ‘DND’ (Nigeria) *WINNER
  • TG Omori – Kizz Daniel & Davido ‘Twe Twe’ (Nigeria)
  • Director Folex – Zuchu feat Innoss’ B ‘Nani’ (Remix) (Tanzania/DRC)
  • Nabil Elderkin – Tyla ‘Jump’ (South Africa)
  • Kmane – Ayra Starr ‘Commas’ (Nigeria)
  • Seoute Emmanuel – Toofan ‘C Pas Normal’ (Togo)
  • Ach’B – Innoss’ B ‘Sete’ (DRC)
  • Edgar Esteves – Asake & Wizkid ‘MMS’ (Nigeria)

Best Dancer

  • Ikorodu Boys (Nigeria)
  • Dancegod Lloyd (Ghana)
  • Incredible Zigi (Ghana)
  • Kamo Mphela (South Africa)
  • Telminho (Angola)
  • Makhadzi (South Africa) *WINNER
  • Ordinateur (Ivory Coast)
  • Issac Kalonji (Democratic Republic of Congo)

Best DJ

  • Tyler ICU – ‘Mnike’ (South Africa)
  • Uncle Waffles – ‘Wadibusa’ (South Africa)
  • DJ Tunez – ‘Apala Disco Remix’ (Nigeria)
  • DJ Nelasta – ‘Eros’ (Angola)
  • DJ Spinall ft. Tyla & Omah Lay – ‘One Call’ (Nigeria)
  • DJ Neptune ft. Qing Madi – ‘Honest’ (Nigeria)
  • DJ Moh Green – ‘Kelele’ (Algeria) *WINNER
  • DJ Maphorisa – ‘Mnike’ (South Africa)
  • Kabza De Small – ‘Imithandazo’ (South Africa)

Best Hip Hop Artist (Sponsored by Hot 97)

  • Nasty C (South Africa),
  • Didi B (Ivory Coast) *WINNER
  • Odumodublvck (Nigeria), Suspect 95 (Ivory Coast)
  • Sarkodie (Ghana)
  • Young Lunya (Tanzania)
  • Maglera Doe Boy (South Africa)

Pan-African Awards

Best Global African Artist

  • Tyla (South Africa)
  • Tyler ICU (South Africa)
  • Fally Ipupa (Democratic Republic of Congo)
  • Burna Boy (Nigeria)
  • Asake (Nigeria/USA)
  • Rema (Nigeria)
  • Ayra Starr (Nigeria)
  • Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania) *WINNER

Best Male Artist

  • Dlala Thukzin (South Africa)
  • Fally Ipupa (Democratic Republic of Congo)
  • Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
  • Asake (Nigeria)
  • Burna Boy (Nigeria)
  • Rema (Nigeria) *WINNER
  • Wizkid (Nigeria)
  • Stonebwoy (Ghana)

Best Female Artist

  • Tyla (South Africa) *WINNER
  • Makhadzi (South Africa)
  • Chelsea Dinorath (Angola)
  • Josey (Ivory Coast)
  • Ayra Starr (Nigeria)
  • Tems (Nigeria)
  • Yemi Alade (Nigeria)

Best Newcomer (sponsored by Johnnie Walker)

  • Nkosazana Daughter (South Africa)
  • Himra (Ivory Coast)
  • Sabrina (Cameroon)
  • Mia Guissé (Senegal)
  • Shallipopi (Nigeria)
  • Qing Madi (Nigeria)
  • Abigail Chams (Tanzania)

Best Live Performance

  • Fally Ipupa (DRC) *WINNER
  • Ayra Starr – 21: The World Tour (Nigeria)
  • Burna Boy – I Told Them (Nigeria)
  • Tyla (South Africa)
  • Yemi Alade – African Rebel Tour (Nigeria)
  • Didi B – Mojo Trone Tour (Ivory Coast)
  • Diamond Platnumz – Wasafi Festival (Tanzania)

Best Producer

  • Kelvin Momo – ‘Sewe’ (South Africa)
  • P.Priime – ‘MMS’ (Nigeria) *WINNER
  • DJ Maphorisa – ‘Mnike’ (South Africa)
  • Tam Sir – ‘Coup du Marteau’ (Ivory Coast)
  • Sarz – ‘Happiness’ (Nigeria)
  • Jae 5 – ‘Perfect Combi’ (Ghana)
  • KDDO – ‘For Certain’ (Party Next Door) (Nigeria)
  • London – ‘Ozeba’ (Nigeria)
  • Kabza De Small – ‘Imithandazo’ (South Africa)

Best Gospel Artist

  • Spirit of Praise 10 (South Africa)
  • KS Bloom (Ivory Coast)
  • Mercy Chinwo (Nigeria) *WINNER
  • Ada Ehi (Nigeria)
  • Bella Kombo (Tanzania)
  • Israël Mbonyi (Rwanda)

Regional Awards

Best Artist Eastern Africa

  • Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
  • Bien (Kenya) *WINNER
  • Joshua Baraka (Uganda)
  • Harmonize (Tanzania)
  • Rophnan (Ethiopia)
  • Marioo (Tanzania)
  • Zuchu (Tanzania)
  • Nandy (Tanzania)

Best Artist (Western Africa Anglophone)

  • Seyi Vibez (Nigeria)
  • Adekunle Gold (Nigeria)
  • Ayra Starr (Nigeria) *WINNER
  • Tems (Nigeria)
  • Chike (Nigeria)
  • Simi (Nigeria)
  • KiDi (Ghana)

Best Artist (Southern Africa)

  • Titom & Yuppe (South Africa)
  • De Mthuda (South Africa)
  • Inkabi Zezwe (South Africa)
  • Dlala Thukzin (South Africa)
  • Tyla (South Africa)
  • Uncle Waffles (South Africa)
  • Tyler ICU (South Africa) *WINNER

Best Artist Francophone Africa

  • Didi B (Ivory Coast)
  • Josey (Ivory Coast) *WINNER
  • Tidiane Mario (Congo)
  • Gaz Mawete (Democratic Republic of Congo)
  • Wally B. Seck (Senegal)
  • PhillBill (Cameroon)

Best Artist (Lusophone Africa)

  • Calema (São Tomé and Príncipe)
  • Landrick (Angola)
  • Chelsea Dinorath (Angola) *WINNER
  • Twenty Fingers (Mozambique)
  • Mr. Bow (Mozambique)
  • Soraia Ramos (Cape Verde)

Best Artist (Tanzania)

  • Mbosso (Tanzania)
  • Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
  • Zuchu (Zanzibar)
  • Marioo (Tanzania)
  • Nandy (Tanzania) *WINNER
  • Alikiba (Tanzania)
  • Jux (Tanzania)
  • Harmonize (Tanzania)

International and Diaspora Awards

Best Artist (Europe)

  • Central Cee (United Kingdom)
  • Kalash (France/Martinique)
  • Darkoo (United Kingdom)
  • Joe Dwet File (France/Haiti) *WINNER
  • Jungeli (France)
  • Franglish (France)
  • Aya Nakamura (France/Mali)

Best Artist (Brazil)

  • Racionais MC’s (Brazil)
  • MC IG (Brazil)
  • Péricles (Brazil)
  • Tasha & Tracie (Brazil)
  • Ludmilla (Brazil)
  • Duquesa (Brazil) *WINNER

Best Artist (Caribbean)

  • Venssy (French Guiana)
  • Lea Churro (Reunion Island) *WINNER
  • Mathieu White (Guadeloupe)
  • Meryl (Martinique)
  • Nesly (French Guiana)
  • Shenseea (Jamaica)
  • Kenny Haiti (Haiti)

Best Artist (Indian Ocean)

  • Barth (Reunion) *WINNER
  • Goulam (Comoros)
  • PLL (Reunion)
  • Kalipsxau (Reunion)
  • Léa Churros (Reunion)
  • Jamily Jeanne (Mauritius)

Lifetime Achievement Award

  • D’Banj
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Entertainment

Otoboahba Poised To Take Spotlight With “3se Woara”

Talented Ghanaian singer and performing artist, Alberta Nana Ama Otoboaba, popularly known as Otoboahba, is preparing to make her official entry into the music scene with her debut single, “3se Woara” (It’s Up To You), under Da Healer Records.

This much-anticipated release marks a significant milestone in Otoboahba’s musical journey. Produced by Healer, the song promises to deliver a compelling blend of melody and message, capturing the attention of music lovers and industry stakeholders alike.

In a recent conversation with Ekow Smith of Ghvibes, Otoboahba revealed that the inspiration for “3se Woara” came from Healer, who also played a pivotal role in guiding her through the recording process. Remarkably, she shared that this was her very first time in a recording studio—but with Healer’s mentorship, they created something truly magical.

“This is my first studio experience, and with Healer’s help, we brought the song to life in an unforgettable way,” she said.

Otoboahba also expressed her commitment to pushing creative boundaries with her music. “3se Woara” is expected to resonate deeply with listeners, thanks to its rich fusion of cultural influences and heartfelt expression.

As she embarks on this exciting new chapter, Otoboahba is poised to leave a lasting impression on the global music scene.

Stay tuned for the official release of “3se Woara” — a musical journey that’s sure to inspire and uplift.

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Healer Unveils Powerful Visuals For “Wa Sore”(He Has Risen)

Kingsley Nyarko, widely known by his stage name Healer, is a Ghanaian gospel singer, songwriter, and preacher. He has officially released the visuals for his soul-stirring hit single “Wa Sore” (He Has Risen). Originally launched on May 23, 2025, the song has since captivated audiences around the world with its inspirational message and powerful delivery.

 

“Wa Sore” has already garnered significant global attention, motivating and uplifting countless listeners. The newly released music video was directed by Eeeii and was brought to life with the help of Healer’s dedicated team. The production, helmed by Healer himself, delivers an exceptional and emotionally resonant visual experience.

 

The official video, which premiered on May 23, 2025, is now available on Healer’s YouTube channel. Fans and gospel music enthusiasts can look forward to an immersive visual that beautifully complements the song’s powerful themes of resurrection, hope, and spiritual renewal.

 

“Wa Sore” (He Has Risen) is also available on all major streaming platforms, giving fans the opportunity to experience both the audio and video versions of this inspirational piece.

 

As Healer continues to share his gift with the world, “Wa Sore” (He Has Risen) stands as more than just a song, it’s a moving expression of faith and encouragement.

 

Don’t miss out on this remarkable work of art that promises to uplift and inspire.

 

Listen to the “Wa Sore” (He Has Risen MP3 HERE

 

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Hajia 4Reall To Be Released On May 22 Pending 3 Years Supervised Release

Barring any unforeseen circumstances, incarcerated Ghanaian “influencer” and socialite Mona Faiz Montrage, also known as Hajia 4Reall, will be released from the FDC Philadelphia facility in the USA on Thursday, May 22, 2025.

 

A search on the facility’s website confirmed she is due for release.

 

Upon her release, Hajia 4Reall will go into removal proceedings with immigration, followed by a self-deportation.

 

In November 2024, Hon. J. Paul Oetken, a US District Court Judge, granted a request by Fast Law, lawyers of the Ghanaian socialite, to help facilitate her self-deportation proceedings to Ghana upon completion of her sentence.

 

Hajia 4Reall was sentenced to 12 months and one day in prison for receiving romance scam proceeds. Montrage previously pleaded guilty on February 21, 2024, to conspiracy to receive stolen money.

 

Although she is due for release, she will also face three years of supervised release while in Ghana.

 

A supervised release is a period of restricted freedom for prisoners who have recently been released from federal custody.

 

During her sentencing, U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said, “Mona Faiz Montrage knowingly received illegal funds from older Americans who were victims of romance scams and now faces serious consequences for her actions.

 

Romance scams such as Montrage’s harm vulnerable, elderly victims not only in the cruel betrayal of trust in the realization that their online romantic connection was fiction but also by callously stealing their money. This office and our law enforcement partners are relentless in bringing fraudsters who target Americans to justice, no matter where they are.”

 

A Ghanaian public figure, Hajia 4Real, rose to fame as an influencer through her Instagram profile under the username “Hajia4Real,” which at one point had approximately 3.4 million Instagram followers and was among the top 10 most followed profiles in Ghana.

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Chris Brown Granted A $6.7 Million Bail For London Assault

Chris Brown, 36, is free to commence his U.K. and Ireland tour that begins in Manchester on June 15, two days after his trial is due to start.

 

Chris Brown, the singer and rapper facing trial in the United Kingdom next month for an alleged nightclub attack, was released on $6.7 million bail after a Wednesday hearing.

 

Judge Tony Baumgartner told Southwark Crown Court on Wednesday that Brown could be freed subject to a £5 million ($6.7 million) bail payment, which would be forfeited if certain conditions are not met or he fails to turn up at his next court appearance, the British Press Association reported.

 

Brown was not present in court for the bail hearing.

 

The singer is accused of causing grievous bodily harm by throwing a tequila bottle in a nightclub in Manchester in 2023. He has yet to enter a plea in the case.

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Entertainment

Mr Bonez Named Male Television Entertainment Show Host of The Year

Mr. Peter Osei-Kesse, popularly known as Mr. Bonez, has been named the Male Television Entertainment Show Host of the Year at the 14th CityHills FoklexMedia Awards.

 

In a night that celebrated the brightest and most influential personalities in Ghana’s media landscape, Mr. Bonez’s recognition reflects his consistent excellence, charisma on screen, and impactful presence within Ghana’s vibrant entertainment scene.

 

Mr. Bonez, who has become a household name through his engaging television appearances and unmatched interviewing style, expressed deep gratitude for the honour.

“This award is not just a personal milestone, but a celebration of the support I’ve received from my viewers, team, and industry colleagues,” he said. “It’s a motivation to keep pushing boundaries and delivering authentic, entertaining content to Ghanaians and beyond.”

Known for his dynamic hosting on Kessben TV’s Music Plus and other entertainment platforms, Mr. Bonez has carved a niche for himself as a passionate advocate for the Ghanaian creative arts industry. His ability to connect with audiences and spotlight emerging talents has earned him widespread admiration.

Hosted by Maame Esi Nyamekye and Roman Fada, the 14th CityHills Foklex Media Awards was held at the National Theatre in Accra, Ghana, on Saturday, May 10, 2025.

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Entertainment

Urban Gospel Star, Healer To Drop “Wa Sore” (He Has Risen) On May 23

Talented Ghanaian urban gospel singer, songwriter, sound engineer, and preacher Kingsley Nyarko—widely known as Healer—is set to captivate music enthusiasts with his latest musical offering: a dynamic fusion of Ghanaian urban gospel titled “Wa Sore” (He Has Risen). Scheduled for release on May 23, 2025, the track is produced by Healer himself, showcasing his versatility and depth as a music creator.

The upcoming release has already sparked excitement among fans and industry insiders, with many anticipating it as a major milestone in Healer’s career. Known for his unique sound and spiritual depth, Healer continues to push the boundaries of Ghanaian gospel music, blending rich cultural influences with contemporary urban flair.

“Wa Sore” (He Has Risen) is more than just a song—it’s a celebration of resurrection, hope, and spiritual revival. As Healer marks this next chapter in his artistic journey, the single is poised to resonate with audiences not just in Ghana, but around the world.

Prepare to be uplifted and inspired as Healer brings a fresh wave of gospel innovation with “Wa Sore” (He Has Risen)—a release that promises to leave a lasting impact.

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Entertainment

Mizter Okyere Beats The Odds, Fuses Salsa With Highlife In New Classic Song “I Dey Come”

Ghanaian Saxophonist, Mizter Okyere, has released a top classic that has never been done before!

The award-winning saxophonist moves Highlife into Salsa creating an all new fusion sound that has never been heard before. He titled it “I Dey Come”.

“I Dey Come” definitely is a new wave coming to us all as an Afro pop culture sound. Not only did Mizter Okyere create a new sound; he has also formed a new band he calls “The Soul Healers Band”.

The Soul Healers Band were launched on the record as featured acts by Mizter Okyere. Song is out and available on all major streaming platforms.

Listen Here:

https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/mizterokyere/i-dey-come-feat-soul-healers-band/

“The song is a blend of Salsa and Highlife/Afrobeat. The world deserves a new wave of sound; so I had to create this one featuring my own band – The Soul Healers Band. I look forward to creating impact with this new sound and I know the world will love it”, Mizter Okyere explains. The song was produced by Mizter Okyere himself.

(Source: BeenieWords.com)

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Entertainment

Sabrincena Debuts With Hot Jam “Mood”, Under Kwatay Entertainment

Kwatay Entertainment puts through their second artiste, Sabrincena aka BadGirl Cena, debuting with a first jam titled “Mood”.

An Afropop cum AfroDancehall groove it is, has an uptempo feel with raunchy lyrics. She recruits budding Singer, Romayah, on it. The song was produced by ScantyBeatz.

Stream Here:

https://sebrincenaakabadgirlcena.hearnow.com/mood

About Sabrincena:

Born in Monrovia, Liberia, and now based in Ghana, Sabrincena is also known as Badgirl Cena. A young and vibrant artiste she is, she is poised to making influence with her type of sound in Afro and Dancehall grooves. As versatile she is, she flows well in R&B and global sounds (Pop Culture).

Sabrincena brings a fresh sound that celebrates love, positivity, and ambition. Her journey in music began with a passion for singing and songwriting. She honed her skills, blending different genres to create her distinctive style.

In 2025, she debuts with her single “Mood” featuring Romayah. Song is released under KwaTay Entertainment and would garner attention, showcasing her smooth vocals, catchy melodies, and bold presence, as well as shoot her to the top. With her superstar energy and determination, Badgirl Cena is living her dream.

According to her style of music, it is characterized by:

– Genre-bending sound: Afro, R&B, and pop fusion
– Uplifting themes: Love, good vibes, and ambition
– Inspirational message: Empowering listeners with her music

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Entertainment

Chris Brown Arrested In The UK Over Alleged Bottle-Throwing Incident

Chris Brown is in trouble with the law again.

 

According to The Sun, Met Police detectives arrested the 36-year-old American musician just after 2 am at The Lowry Hotel in Manchester over a bottle-throwing incident at a venue in Hanover Square on 19 February 2023.

 

Chris Brown was busted hours after he flew into town on a private jet, landing at Manchester Airport.

 

The arrest stems from a violent incident that reportedly took place at Tape nightclub in the Mayfair section of London on February 19, 2023.

 

Brown allegedly clashed with music producer Abe Diaw and has been accused of attacking him with a bottle.

 

At the time, Diaw told The Sun that Chris smashed him over the head with a bottle and then punched and kicked him.

 

Ryan J. Daneshrad, Diaw’s attorney in his 2023 lawsuit against Brown, told TMZ, “We can confirm that Chris Brown was involved in an incident with our client, and the injuries sustained are serious. We are pursuing all legal remedies to hold him accountable.

 

At this time, we will let the facts speak for themselves through the proper legal channels.”

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Entertainment

Denel Foundation Presents: “One In A Million: Young, Bold & Courageous“ Conference

The Denel Foundation is proud to announce the return of its highly anticipated annual youth empowerment conference, “One in a Million: Young, Bold & Courageous”, scheduled for Saturday, June 7, 2025, at the YOTA Building in East Legon. This year’s edition carries the bold theme, “Untold Stories of Time”, and promises a transformative experience for young leaders, creatives, and change-makers across the country. Admission is free and open to all.

 

Now in its latest edition, the conference seeks to shine a light on the hidden, powerful narratives of young people who have risen above adversity, challenged norms, and made bold strides in leadership, creativity, and innovation. “Untold Stories of Time” will serve as a platform for stories that are often left out of the spotlight—stories of resilience, quiet strength, vision, and transformation.

 

A Power-Packed Lineup of Speaker

This year’s conference will feature an impressive lineup of inspirational speakers and trailblazers across diverse fields:

YemmeyBaba – A renowned Strategic Communicator and Entrepreneur whose insights on branding and identity continue to inspire young professionals.

 

KulaPerry – Fashion Icon and CEO of FearNoMan, known for pushing boundaries in streetwear fashion and youth culture.

 

Lady Jay – A dynamic Media Personality celebrated for her influence in music, entertainment, and advocacy.

 

John Asogonnde – Public Speaker and Entrepreneur with a compelling story of leadership and business resilience.

 

Miss Deborah – Mental Health Advocate using her voice to break stigmas and promote wellness and self-awareness among youth.

 

What Attendees Can Expect

 

Participants will engage in:

 

Keynote speeches and unfiltered personal stories from high-impact speakers.

Interactive sessions aimed at challenging conventional thinking and igniting purpose.

Networking with like-minded youth, mentors, and professionals from various industries.

A supportive and empowering environment for storytelling, learning, and connection.

 

A Legacy of Social Impact

Beyond the stage, the Denel Foundation has consistently demonstrated a commitment to social impact and community development:

 

In 2022, the Foundation donated to Royal Seed Home, aiding the education of vulnerable children.

 

In 2023, it provided medical support for 15 patients over an eight-month period.

In 2024, the Foundation launched a free diabetes screening campaign, reaching over 450 individuals with lifesaving health checks and awareness.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, June 7, 2025

Time: 11:00 AM

Venue: YOTA Building, East Legon

Entry: Free

This event is an invitation to every dreamer, doer, and seeker of change to be seen, heard, and inspired. With compelling stories, heartfelt dialogue, and a powerful community spirit, “One in a Million: Young, Bold & Courageous” is set to be a landmark gathering of youth expression and empowerment.

 

For More Information:

Email: daksmedia1consult@gmai.com

Phone: +233 543457012, 0538854298.

Instagram: @denels foundation

Come. Share. Be Heard. Because Your Story Is One in a Million.

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