In a night brimming with emotion, inspiration, and celebration, Dr. Angela Dwamena-Aboagye, founder of The Ark Foundation, emerged as the ultimate winner of MTN Heroes of Change Season 7, beating out nine other extraordinary finalists.
In a dramatic and symbolic reveal, a yellow star-shaped object was lowered from the ceiling of the venue, capturing the attention of all attendees.
The unveiling of the winner was done jointly by Stephen Blewett, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MTN Ghana, and Professor Franklin Manu, Board Chairman of the MTN Ghana Foundation.
Together, they opened the glowing yellow star to reveal Dr. Dwamena-Aboagye as the woman of the moment—an icon of compassion and courage.
The announcement was greeted with instantaneous applause and a standing ovation from all seated at the event venue.
Prof. Manu then presented the ultimate prize—a cheque for GH¢100,000, a citation, and a plaque—to thunderous applause.
Adwoa Wiafe Afriyie, Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer at MTN Ghana, read the heartfelt citation detailing the impact of Dr. Dwamena-Aboagye’s work: “Through The Ark Foundation, she has provided abused women and children with more than just a shelter—she offers a lifeline, healing, and a renewed sense of agency.”
For more than two decades, Dr. Dwamena-Aboagye has led efforts to support victims of domestic and sexual violence, providing legal aid, shelter, counseling, and advocacy.
Her foundation offers comprehensive assistance, including safe shelter in a crisis center, counselling, legal aid, and medical care.
Beyond direct support, Dr. Dwamena-Aboagye actively engages in advocacy to reform legislation concerning domestic violence, female genital mutilation, and child rights.
Recognising the importance of education, she also spearheads community sensitisation programmes to foster understanding and drive social change.
She has funded the formal education of 1,000 girls.
Ultimately, her goal is to facilitate the healing and reintegration of victims into society, ensuring they have the resources and support needed to rebuild their lives.
In her heartfelt acceptance speech, Dr. Angela Dwamena-Aboagye expressed deep gratitude to the staff of The Ark Foundation for their unwavering commitment and dedication.
She described all the finalists as “amazing people doing amazing things,” and paid a glowing tribute to her husband and children for their steadfast support.
Dr. Dwamena-Aboagye also revealed that she had submitted several proposals to MTN in the past seeking support, but none had been successful—making this recognition by MTN all the more unexpected and meaningful.
Total cash prizes pool hits GH¢900,000
The night’s celebrations saw a total of GH¢900,000 in prizes distributed across multiple categories, recognizing tireless efforts in health, education, economic empowerment, media, and digital advocacy.
Martha Opoku Agyemang wins health category
In the health category, Martha Opoku Agyemang, founder of the KSPC Foundation, was awarded GH¢60,000, a plaque, and a citation, presented by Sam Addo, Chief Sales and Distribution Officer at MTN.
Known as a national voice for families affected by cerebral palsy, Martha’s powerful advocacy has helped reshape public policy and inspire greater inclusivity.
She triumphed over Judith Kokui Azumah, creator of Ghana’s first all-female addiction rehabilitation center, and Linda Donkor, whose Auntie Linda Foundation is breaking the stigma surrounding HIV through powerful social media outreach.
In her emotional acceptance speech, Martha thanked God, her mother, brother, sole supporter Angelina, and MTN Ghana for giving her the platform to continue her mission.
Yaw Rockson Adangabey wins education category
The education category saw Yaw Rockson Adangabey, a wheelchair-bound school proprietor with cerebral palsy, take the spotlight.
Operating the first private school in Gbedema, he ensures rural children receive quality early education.
His award, presented by Samuel Koranteng, Board Member of the MTN Ghana Foundation, was met with resounding cheers.
He bested Mrs. Reachel Adjaottor Adom, founder of the Challenged Children Foundation, and Emma Sallah, whose Anloga Special School offers care and learning to intellectually disabled children in Keta.
In a teary yet determined tone, Adangabey thanked God, his family, and the MTN Foundation for believing in his dream and his capacity to help others despite his own physical limitations.
Sakina Mumuni wins economic empowerment
In a category that speaks to resilience and renewal, Sakina Mumuni, a queen mother from conflict-ridden Bawku, emerged as the economic empowerment hero.
She received GH¢60,000 from Joseph Dogbe, Chief Risk and Compliance Officer at MTN.
Through vocational training and micro-financing, Sakina is helping war-affected women rebuild their lives.
She triumphed over Gideon Zege, a former victim of human trafficking turned ethical beekeeper, and Valeria Adzo Adzatia, whose Smiles of Hope Organisation supports amputees across Ghana.
Finalists acknowledged with honour and reward
The six finalists who did not win in the main categories—Valeria Adzo Adzatia, Gideon Zege, Reachel Adjaottor Adom, Emma Sallah, Judith Kokui Azumah, and Linda Donkor—each received GH¢45,000, a citation, and a plaque, ensuring their efforts did not go unnoticed.
New category shines spotlight on media
A new category, Media Hero of the Year, was introduced to recognize the growing role of the press in shaping positive social outcomes.
The award went to Citi FM Foundation and 3 Foundation, each receiving GH¢30,000, a certificate, and a plaque.
Jemima Kotei-Walsh, MTN’s Chief Customer Relations Officer, presented the award to Samuel Atta Mensah, CEO of Citi FM, and Bernard Avle, General Manager of Citi FM.
In response, Avle said, “Media is a platform for positive change. At Citi FM, we don’t just highlight problems—we solve them.”
Carl Nii Amankwa Addo accepted the award on behalf of 3 Foundation, with Georgina Asare Fiagbenu, MTN’s Senior Manager for Corporate Communications, presenting it.
Addo announced the foundation’s new efforts to support victims of tidal waves in Ketu South, expressing deep gratitude to MTN.
Digital heroes use the internet for impact
Also new this year was the Digital Hero of the Year category, which celebrated individuals creating positive change through digital platforms.
James Annor Tetteh (popularly known as Nana T) and Heneba Kwadwo Sarfo, founder of the viral sanitation group Buz Stop Boys, each received GH¢30,000.
Ibrahim Misto, MTN’s Chief Digital Officer, presented the award to Tetteh, who credited his wife, followers, and MTN for the honour. “As a boy from Asesewa, I feel incredibly honoured,” he said.
On his part, Sarfo, a civil engineer, revealed that Buz Stop Boys was started when he was unemployed and encouraged the youth to use their smartphones for storytelling and social change.
His award was presented by Reuben Opata, MTN’s Chief Technical Officer.
Other nominees in this category included Dr. Hanna Lisa-Tetteh, Twins Diaries, and Bones Man TV.
Special recognitions and emotional tributes
Those who nominated the ten finalists were also rewarded, each receiving GH¢5,000, presented by Djifah Romano Mensah, head of HR, Mobile Money Limited.
In addition to the GH¢45,000, the six non-winning finalists received certificates of participation and citations, presented by Bernard Acquah, Chief Information Officer of MTN Ghana.
Ordinary people, extraordinary deeds
In his welcome address, CEO of MTN Ghana Stephen Blewett reflected on the essence of the initiative, acknowledging that true change often begins not with institutions, but “from the hearts of ordinary individuals who choose to do extraordinary things in their communities.”
According to him, these individuals dubbed “Heroes of Change” are courageous changemakers who, despite personal challenges, lead with compassion to bring meaningful progress to lives across Ghana.
“The stories of these changemakers,” said the CEO, “serve as a reminder that true courage is not found in grand gestures, but in the quiet and relentless commitment to make a difference.”
Stories that inspire hope and action
Mr. Blewett recounted the profound impact of previous seasons, highlighting stories like that of Diana Adjei from Season 5, who used her award to build a hostel for young girls seeking free skills training.
Similarly, he said Rhoda Wedam, an economic empowerment nominee from Season 6, turned her modest beginnings into a thriving shea butter processing center employing 20 people while expanding training and savings schemes for women.
“These are exceptional, selfless people who come in small packages,” noted the MTN CEO, who emphasized that “each nominee here tonight is already a winner.”
Their work, he added, “does not just change lives—it changes hearts. And in doing so, it strengthens the very fabric of our nation.”
Mr. Blewett explained that the introduction of the Digital Heroes category highlighted MTN’s belief that “the future of our nation, and indeed our continent, lies in digital innovation, access, and empowerment.”
He said entries in the digital category dazzled with creativity, showing how digital tools, “when placed in the right hands, can heal, educate, and uplift.”
He reaffirmed MTN Ghana’s commitment to social impact: “As we expand our network, drive digital financial inclusion, and build digital skills, we do so with the understanding that technology must serve humanity—not the other way around.”
A call to action from the MTN Foundation
Board Chairman of MTN Ghana Foundation, Prof. Manu, underscored the initiative’s alignment with the foundation’s core values.
“The vision of the Foundation is to really have an impact on our society, and the Heroes of Change programme embodies our Foundation’s vision, mission, and values,” he stated.
“It is designed to celebrate those who are making a tangible contribution to society.”
He urged Ghanaians to emulate the actions of the honorees: “We as individuals can do something about the challenges we face in our communities.”
“I hope your stories will inspire more people to follow your example,” he said. “So to all our viewers, consider this: will you be the next Hero of Change? Look around you. There are many opportunities to make a difference. Go out and be the change you wish to see.”
Celebrating the spirit of service and inclusion
Adwoa Wiafe expressed the company’s pride in standing beside such exceptional individuals.
“These men and women embody the values of MTN: they lead with care, they act with inclusion, they serve with respect, they have a can-do spirit, they work with integrity, and they collaborate with agility,” she said.
She emphasised the importance of recognition: “It is important that we actively and deliberately seek out, expose, amplify, and affirm the work of men and women who continue to defy the odds, set the pace, and make an indelible mark on society—away from the limelight of self-seeking publicity.”
On the evolution of the programme, she added, “Now in this seventh season, we are happy to see the Heroes of Change programme growing stronger, broader, and impacting more lives.”
She explained that this year’s edition saw significant digital transformation, including the digitization of the nomination and evaluation process and the addition of new digital categories to reflect the changing landscape of community service.
The event paused for a moment of silence in honour of the late Mrs. Nabilla Williams, a long-time Board Member of the MTN Ghana Foundation.
A cultural troupe brought life to the auditorium with vibrant performances, and celebrated media personality Berla Mundi dazzled the crowd as MC.
Poet Nakiyat Draman provided poetic introductions to each finalist, while Farmhouse, the event’s producers, delivered an impeccable show.
The event, held at Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra on Friday, May 30, 2025, brought together dignitaries, foundation board members, development partners, media, and the inspiring nominees whose work embodies the spirit of compassion and change.
The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, graced the occasion.
MTN Ghana Foundation’s enduring impact
The MTN Ghana Foundation continues to shape Ghana’s development story.
Launched in 2013, the MTN Heroes of Change initiative has consistently surpassed its objective of inspiring community members to become proactive change agents.
The initiative celebrates ordinary Ghanaians who have taken it upon themselves to create lasting impact in their communities.
Over the years, it has unearthed and celebrated powerful stories of selflessness: teachers educating without pay, health workers providing care in remote areas, and advocates building inclusive spaces for the marginalized.
Over 5m lives impacted
With over 5 million lives impacted, support for over 200 SMEs, and 170 social investment projects completed, the Heroes of Change programme remains a powerful reminder that ordinary people doing extraordinary things deserve to be celebrated.
Over 2,000 applied for season 7
Season 7 received over 2,000 applications, which were whittled down to 100, and later pruned to 30 before the judges settled on the 10 finalists.
The seventh season’s celebration was not just a recognition of heroes—it was a call to action for all Ghanaians to be forces for good in their communities.
