Yvonne Ossei hosts Empowering Women and Girl-Children Programme at British Council Accra

On the International Day to End Violence Against Women 2024, actress and producer Yvonne Ossei spearheaded the Empowering Women and Girl-Children Programme at the British Council Accra.

This audio-visual and interactive event, created by Yvonne, was launched in partnership with the British Council as Ghana’s response to the United Nations’ call to protect women and girls from violence and discrimination globally. The event marked the beginning of the annual 16 Days of Activism, which runs from November 25, the International Day to End Violence Against Women, to December 10, International Human Rights Day.

Highlighting Female Genital Mutilation Through Drama

The programme opened with a screening of Cuts, a short fictional TV drama addressing the issue of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). Written and executive produced by Yvonne, the drama set the stage for an engaging question-and-answer session. Audience members sought deeper insights into the issue of FGM and Yvonne’s creative inspiration for the project.

Panel Discussion on Gender-Based Experiences in TV and Film

The event also featured a panel discussion titled Creating Spaces for Gender-Based Experiences in TV & Film. Panelists included Nosisa Doe (Channel Head, Akwaaba Magic TV), Veda Smith (Grammy-nominated producer and CEO of Dogsled Productions), and Dr. Felicia Odame (Gender Specialist). The discussion captivated the audience, especially on issues of sexual harassment in workplaces and educational institutions.

Artistic Performances and Media Coverage
The evening concluded with five poets from the Creative Writing Academy Accra performing pieces inspired by gender-based experiences. The event was broadcast live on multiple TV stations, including Joy News and GH One.

Yvonne’s Advocacy and Achievements

Yvonne Ossei has a long history of using her platform to address social issues. One of her earliest stage plays on FGM was performed live at Channel 4 Studios in the UK and toured prominent theatres such as the Pleasance Theatre.

“I see it as a privilege to represent the welfare of women and girls in Ghana, across the continent, and beyond,” Yvonne said.

In addition to Cuts, Yvonne is the creator and executive producer of popular shows like Celebrity TV Couch and Heart of the Matter, a TV debate series. She has also made history as the first African woman to win the British Urban Film Festival Award and is a double award winner at the GPA 2024 in the categories of Executive TV Producer and Actress of the Year.

This successful event reaffirmed Yvonne’s dedication to amplifying the voices of women and girls while fostering awareness and action against gender-based violence.