From Seeds to Crystal: Lady Dentaa Amoateng, MBE calls for Africans to unite to grow and unlock the continent’s potential
LONDON, Friday 29th November 2024 – The iconic GUBA Awards proudly marks its 15th anniversary with a call from its founder, Lady Dentaa Amoateng, MBE, for Africans across the globe to unite and unlock the continent’s boundless potential.
The awards will commemorate their key milestone with an exclusive VIP networking event that will be held on Friday, November 29th, 2024, at the Commonwealth Secretariat, Marlborough House, London. The invitation-only event will bring together prominent leaders, innovators, and visionaries, reflecting on GUBA’s legacy and celebrating its role in amplifying African achievements while fostering meaningful connections between Africa and the diaspora.
This anniversary will honour a legacy of promoting African excellence while spotlighting the call for unity and progress on the continent. Guests, including award-winning designer Ozwald Boateng, OBE, parliamentarians Bell Ribeiro-Addy and Dawn Butler, footballer and broadcaster Eni Aluko, and singer Fuse ODG, will gather to reflect on GUBA’s impact and celebrate its enduring mission.
Key sponsors of the event are PayAngel, KGL Group, Bills Micro-Credit, Royal Kingdom Estate and Genius Loci International.
Since its inception in 2009, the GUBA Awards have expanded far beyond their initial roots. The inaugural ceremony was held at London’s Porchester Hall, and has since journeyed to Ghana, Rwanda, and the USA, uniting global audiences in recognising African excellence. The next step in this illustrious journey will see GUBA venture to the Caribbean, celebrating the shared history and culture.
The impact of GUBA has been incredible. Not only has it been an inspiration and a beacon of hope for young people to see others from the same heritage doing remarkable things and being celebrated, it has encouraged them to also try to emulate their work.
Reflecting on GUBA’s journey Lady Dentaa said: “We all know Africa has the potential to be one of the greatest places on earth. I urge leaders, the African diaspora, and Africans on the continent to grow, unite, and build Africa. Africa has it all—resources, business opportunities, tourism, food—you name it. It’s time for Africans to reap the benefits of our incredible potential.
“I’m so proud of the role GUBA has played in celebrating and promoting Africa over the past 15 years, which is reflected in our theme from “Seeds to Crystal”. It’s more than just an awards ceremony, it’s a movement. We created a platform that unites communities, builds bridges and opens doors for collaboration across industries and borders. The ability to inspire and empower others while celebrating our heritage is what makes me most proud.
“Thank you to everyone who has supported us, and let’s continue working together to see Africa shine.”
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “African communities and Londoners of African heritage have contributed – and continue to contribute – a huge amount to the success of our capital. The achievements of the winners and nominees of the 15th anniversary of the GUBA awards are shining examples of the talent of our capital’s African diaspora and act as an inspiration to us all. I am also committed to strengthening our relationship with Africa, and that includes leading a delegation of London-based businesses to key markets there during my third term, as we continue to build a better London for everyone.”
His Excellency Papa Owusu-Ankomah, High Commissioner of Ghana to the United Kingdom said: “The GUBA Awards have been an incredible platform for celebrating African excellence and fostering stronger ties between the continent and the diaspora.
“As we mark the 15th anniversary of this remarkable event, it is a testament to the power of vision, unity, and the drive to amplify African achievements globally. These awards have inspired countless individuals and strengthened the bridge between Africa and the world. I commend Lady Dentaa for her unwavering dedication and leadership in championing this cause, and I look forward to witnessing the continued growth and impact of GUBA in the years to come.”
His Excellency Johnston Busingye, High Commissioner of Rwanda to the United Kingdom said: “GUBA continues to shine as a beacon of African pride, celebrating the heritage, achievements, and contributions of Africa and its diaspora. Its visionary leadership has built bridges that connect cultures and strengthen unity among Africans globally. By recognising achievement, empowering businesses, and creating opportunities, GUBA profoundly impacts African communities, especially the youth.
“As you celebrate this milestone, know your work inspires and uplifts many, particularly within the diaspora. We celebrate with Lady Dentaa and her team and are confident GUBA will keep championing Africa.”
Her Excellency Ms. Macenje Mazoka, High Commissioner of Zambia to the United Kingdom said: “Congratulations on GUBA’s 15th anniversary. On behalf of the Zambian High Commission to the UK, I commend your dedication to celebrating African excellence and fostering unity across the diaspora. Lady Dentaa, your visionary leadership has empowered businesses, recognised achievements, and created opportunities, leaving an enduring impact. As you celebrate this milestone, know that your work continues to inspire and uplift us all. Here’s to 15 years of inspiring work and many more to come.”
Over the past 15 years, GUBA has honoured names such as actor Idris Elba, music artist Stormzy, music icon Angelique Kidjo, leading Ghanaian businessman Sir Sam Jonah and Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Director General of the World Trade Organisation. Celebrated past attendees have included global leaders such as President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Cherie Blair, and it has received endorsements from King Charles III and former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
A link to the press release and images can be found here.
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VIP Event Details:
- Event: VIP Networking event for the 15th Anniversary of the GUBA Awards
- Date: Friday, November 29, 2024
- Time: 5:00pm-9:00pm
- Location: Commonwealth Secretariat, Marlborough House, Pall Mall, St James’ London, SW1Y 5HX
About GUBA Enterprise
GUBA (Grow, Unite, Build, Africa) is more than an awards initiative. Under its umbrella are pioneering programs including the GUBA Trade Expo, GUBA Diaspora Network, and GUBA Foundation. Each endeavour reflects the mission of fostering stronger ties between Africa and the diaspora, promoting African excellence, and driving global collaboration.
Over the years, GUBA has made monumental strides in connecting the African diaspora to the continent, fostering global partnerships, and advocating for impactful change. Under the leadership of its visionary founder, Lady Dentaa Amoateng MBE, GUBA has accomplished a number of significant achievements including supporting King Charles III’s (when he was Prince of Wales) state visit to Ghana by organising His Majesty’s 70th birthday Gala in Ghana, strengthening UK-Ghana relations.
- Arranged the Royal Borough of Greenwich’s visit to Ghana, fostering collaboration and investment opportunities.
- Facilitated the historic twinning between the Mayor of London and the City of Accra, symbolising unity and partnership.
- Facilitating Mayor of Houston’s visit and trade mission to Ghana, building economic and cultural bridges.
- Received a prestigious proclamation from the Mayor of Houston, honoring GUBA’s contributions to global connections.
- Spearheaded plans to host the Mayors of Memphis, Ohio, and Chicago in Ghana for key trade and development discussions.
- Organised a successful trade mission to the Bahamas, Grenada, St. Lucia, and Anguilla, while also bringing the Premier of Anguilla to Ghana for cultural exchange.
- Partnered with the Recording Academy to host the African Nominee Brunch during Grammy Awards week, celebrating African talent on a global stage.
- Accompanied the CEO of the Grammys to Rwanda and Ghana, spotlighting African creatives and fostering opportunities.
- Advocated for BAME families living with autism, hosting critical awareness events in the UK Parliament.
- Led the Return Movement, assisting over 1,000 members of the African diaspora to relocate to the continent and impacting over 1 million people online.
GUBA’s Advocacy and Community Work:
- Championing the Year of Return initiative and supporting ongoing efforts to strengthen ties between Africans in the diaspora and the continent.
- Supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Ghana and beyond by creating platforms for networking, funding, and development.
- Running programs to empower African women and youth in entrepreneurship, technology, and leadership.
GUBA Brands:
- GUBA Awards
- GUBA Trade Expo
- GUBA Diaspora Network
- GUBA Tours
- GUBA Diaspora Card
- GUBA Careers
- Rock Your African Print
- GUBA Foundation
From Seeds to Crystal: GUBA’s 15-Year Journey
“From Seeds to Crystal” reflects GUBA’s transformation over the past 15 years – from nurturing the talents, ideas, and culture of the African diaspora to celebrating their brilliance on the global stage.
Like a crystal formed under pressure, GUBA’s journey has been shaped by perseverance and dedication, with each year adding a new facet to its mission of amplifying African achievements. Now a symbol of clarity, strength, and excellence, the crystal represents the individuals and businesses GUBA has honoured, showcasing the diversity and innovation of African talent. This theme embodies GUBA’s resilience and its role as a radiant force for change and recognition in celebrating African excellence worldwide.”For more information about the GUBA Awards and its initiatives, visit gubaawards.com