body-container-line-1

Catching Up With Vanessa Gyan

By Daily Guide
General News Catching Up With Vanessa Gyan
AUG 29, 2015 LISTEN

Vanessa has certainly been busy since the last time I profiled her on this page over a year ago. Having recently wrapped the first season of her show, Sincerely Vee, she is set to kick off season 2, which promises to take her brand to the next level. Vanessa has come a long way from just being 'Kiki Gyan’s daughter that’s on TV', as she combines passion and professionalism every time we see her on the small screen. I caught up with her to find out more.

What have you been up to recently?
Vanessa: Well, I just got back from a well-deserved holiday in New York and London. It was exactly what I needed. I got the chance to relax and get away from work for a bit. For the past two years, I’ve just been constantly working, so it was really good to take some time off, go back and see my mom, step dad and sisters. I got the chance to see my friends that have known me for over twenty years. I was back in my comfort zone, and that was truly a great feeling.

Tell us about your show Sincerely Vee and what the new season will be like.

Vanessa: It’s a show that aims to inspire young women in society with stories they can relate to. These stories are told by women from diverse walks of life. I engage these amazing women who have stories to tell with the most profound life lessons. They inspire, teach and encourage. These are women who have made an impact on society. Sincerely Vee is a safe haven for women. It bridges the gap between generations. The first season was 13 episodes, season 2 will be double that. We’re doing 26 episodes! We’re taking everything up a notch. The women we will be talking to are remarkable women. I’m really excited about what’s in store for our viewers.

What are some of the best moments of your career so far?

Vanessa: One of the best was when I interviewed ex- President Rawlings. It was at a movie premier, and we were basically told no interviews were allowed. I’m from New York and we’re 'go-getters', so when I saw him walking in, I made sure I got my interview. I felt that I got what I wanted. I was super excited. It felt really good. Another was on Sincerely Vee when I had the opportunity to interview the former first lady of Liberia. She is the ex-wife of Charles Taylor. I was introduced to her during a dinner. I told her about my show, and if she would like to be on it. She was just so down-to-earth, candid and open during our interview. At that moment, I fell in love with what I do and the show itself.

Is there anything you don’t like about being in the media?

Vanessa: (laughs) I definitely compare Ghanaian media to the media in the States where I grew up. I worked in the media out there in New York for about five years. Over there, it’s just so fast-paced and there’s always something going on. Things are much more structured and I have that mindset. I wish we had more of that here. I wish events over here would start on time, and people would be on the same stage, and more creative. I wish people would step outside their comfort zone and be more daring. It’s important to do so, especially in the creative industry.

What do you do in your free time?
Vanessa: I’m usually chatting with my friends and family in New York, updating them on my life in Ghana. I spend a lot of time with my cousin as well. I just keep it low- key these days and that’s exactly how I like it.

If you weren’t in the media, what career would you have?

Vanessa: I love this industry so much. I’ve always known that this is what I was meant to do. In college, I studied Entertainment Law, Speech Pathology and Nursing. I was good at all three. But my heart always brought me back to TV/radio communications and PR. Who knows, maybe I would be a nurse or a speech pathologist.

What advice would you give young ladies reading this that want to be in the media?

Vanessa: This is a male-dominated industry and you need to have tough skin. Never be afraid to voice your opinion. You need to be able to share your ideas. We need more women in this industry. I get to be creative in ways that I never imagined. This industry brings out my creative side. I feel too many women are being held back from properly exploring this industry. You need to dominate what you love. We deserve to be a part of this industry. Never take 'no' for an answer. This is an industry that tests your passion. In the beginning, you will be making peanuts and that will determine your longevity. You need to be ready to make sacrifices. If you are able to make those sacrifices and keep pushing, you will see the fruits of your labour.

What’s next for you in the not-too-distant future?

Vanessa: Sincerely Vee premieres on September 6th, 4:30 pm on ETV GH. Prior to leaving for the States, I wrapped up a television series produced by Juliet Ibrahim called Every Woman Has A Story. I have a lead role in it. I’m both nervous and excited to introduce my character. There are quite a few other things I’m working on, including Wired on YFM, Saturdays at 1:00 pm.

A message to your fans?
Vanessa: Thank you so much for your support!! I read all your messages across all social media. You guys keep me motivated. I have so much in store for you. I love you guys so much. I truly appreciate each and every one of you.

body-container-line