YEN Entertainment Awards 2026 — 5th Edition
Celebrate the talent and changemakers shaping Ghana.
Explore the categories. Discover your favourites.
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The Actor of the Year category recognises outstanding male actors across English-language and Kumawood productions who deliver compelling performances, bring characters to life, and make a lasting impact on Ghanaian cinema.
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The legend Kofi Adjorlolo had a busy year, appearing in several movie projects, including Bed of Thorns, Weekend with Exes, Maid of Honour, The English Man, Her Father's Daughter, and Guard My Heart. His continued presence across multiple productions makes him a strong contender for Actor of the Year.
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Lil Win has continued to build his acting portfolio with roles in British Borga from his self-produced movie EP project and DNA. His presence in these productions makes him a major contender for Actor of the Year.
Melvin Dain had a notable run with roles in King of T3MA, Shadows of Ambition, Ogbanje, and House of Klu, where he played the fan-favourite Sena. His work in For Love and Country 2 further strengthens his case for Actor of the Year.
Adjetey Anang had another notable year, with performances in The Return of Arinzo, a cross-border thriller, and Virgin of the Throne, a Ghanaian drama. His experience and ability to deliver across different productions make him a strong contender for Actor of the Year.
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Nana Yaw Boamah Addae, also known as NY Addae, continues to build his profile across Ghanaian and Nigerian cinema since bursting onto the scene in the YOLO series. His 2026 performances in Beautiful Disaster and Beyond Kindness add to his growing filmography and earn him consideration for Actor of the Year.
The Actress of the Year category celebrates outstanding female actors across English-language and Kumawood productions who showcase exceptional talent, portray characters convincingly, and make significant contributions to Ghanaian cinema.
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Martha Ankomah has had a notable year, appearing in several films, including Paid in Full, Fanta Money, The Love of a Mother, and Virgin of the Throne. Her performances across multiple 2026 productions earn her consideration for Actress of the Year.
Naya Pratt earns consideration for her lead role as Whitney in Beauty in Scars. Her stellar portrayal of a woman navigating professional pressure and personal struggles in the film earns her a strong case for Actress of the Year.
Nadia Buari has had a busy year with top roles in The Manny, Picture of You, Never Let Go, Whatever She Wants, and The Substitute. Her work across several productions as an actress and filmmaker makes her a contender for Actress of the Year.
Nana Ama McBrown returned to the big screen in AMA, a self-produced, all-Twi feature film released in August 2026 as part of her 25th anniversary in the entertainment industry. Her lead role in the drama earns her consideration for Actress of the Year.
Gadede Segbefia is a promising Ghanaian actress who has earned recognition for her work in Ghanaian theatre productions. Her remarkable stage performances have landed her a role in the soon-to-be-released Christian blockbuster feature film 'No Man of God' alongside some of the biggest names in the industry.
The Female Artiste of the Year category celebrates female musicians who have distinguished themselves through exceptional music, artistic creativity, memorable performances, and significant contributions to Ghana’s music industry.
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Wendy Shay had a standout year among her female colleagues, winning Best Female Artiste in Western Africa at the 2026 AFRIMA, Artiste of the Year at the Ghana Music Awards USA and earning TGMA Artiste of the Year consideration. Her numerous hit songs, such as Too Late and Crazy Love, also gained viral attention, strengthening her case for the Female Artiste of the Year award.
Sista Afia continued to make her mark with her music and energetic live performances, including a memorable appearance at Rapperholic ’26, where she thrilled fans with Asuoden. She also grabbed attention with a standout verse on Okese1’s Don’t Come Too Close II remix, earning praise for her delivery and adding weight to her case for Female Artiste of the Year.
Diana Hamilton continued to strengthen her standing in Ghanaian gospel music, earning nominations at the 2026 Telecel Ghana Music Awards, including Artiste of the Year and Best Gospel Artiste. Her musical consistency and reach among gospel audiences make her a contender for Female Artiste of the Year.
Piesie Esther had a notable year in gospel music, winning Gospel Artiste of the Year and Gospel Song of the Year at the 2026 Ghana Music Awards USA. Her continued impact through gospel music makes her a strong candidate for Female Artiste of the Year.
Queen Florence the Lioness earns consideration for her contribution to Ghana’s music scene and her growing profile as a female artiste, with her song 'Susu Pre' currently being one of the biggest gospel songs in the country. Her nomination recognises her place among the women making their mark in the industry.
The Male Artiste of the Year category recognises male musicians who have made an outstanding impact on Ghana’s music scene through their musical releases, creativity, performance, popularity, and influence over the year.
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Medikal had a notable year with releases including Welcome to America and Shoulder, his collaboration with Shatta Wale and Beeztrap. His recognition at the 2026 Telecel Ghana Music Awards in the Artiste of the Year and Hiplife/Hip-hop and Rap Performance categories adds weight to his nomination.
Kweku Smoke has had a remarkable year with the release of his 7th studio project, No Days Off, which has made waves on Ghana’s Apple Music charts, with tracks like Bombele, Bra and Faith dominating the Top 10. He also successfully held a sold-out concert at the Electric Brixton in London in 2026. His consistency and growing influence in the Ghanaian hip-hop scene make him a strong contender for the Male Artiste of the Year accolade.
Shatta Wale continued to make waves in 2026, winning two awards at the International Reggae and World Music Awards, including Best African Dancehall Entertainer. His continued international recognition and steady stream of releases, such as Yawa Ni and the 21-track solo dancehall album 'African King', strengthen his case for Male Artiste of the Year.
Lasmid made a strong impact in 2026 with hit collaborations including Faith with Kweku Smoke, which topped Ghana’s Apple Music chart, Darkest Style featuring D Global and Signature with KiDi, which also reached No. 1. His other releases, Liquor Store and BendOva with Wendy Shay, further cement his current status as one of the hottest artistes in Ghana, strengthening his case for the Male Artiste of the Year award.
Stonebwoy strengthened his case for Male Artiste of the Year with the release of TORCHER II, his 10-track EP, in 2026. Alongside singles such as Silent Samurai and Wake Up, the project showcases his continued musical evolution and reinforces his standing in Ghana’s music scene.
The Digital Content Creator of the Year category recognises outstanding creators across social media platforms who consistently produce original, engaging, and impactful digital content that attracts audiences and shapes online conversations.
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Chefabbys continued to take Ghanaian cuisine to international audiences in 2026, including a cooking showcase at Snapchat’s London office, where she served Ghanaian meals to more than 300 staff. She was named Young Achiever Female at the 2026 EMY Africa Awards and won the TikTok Influencer of the Year award at the 2026 Ghana Movie Awards. Her use of food to promote Ghanaian culture and her growing international profile strengthen her case for Digital Content Creator of the Year.
AMG Deuces has built a strong presence in Ghana’s digital space through his social media content, lifestyle updates and relatable personality. His ability to engage audiences and turn his online influence into partnerships and business opportunities with top Ghanaian brands like Pizzaman-Chickenman makes him an ideal nominee for the Digital Content Creator of the Year accolade.
Scanty has continued to grow his profile as a top digital content creator and influencer in 2026 through his work with Kwadwo Sheldon Studios (KSS), particularly as a host on Yawa of the Day and through partnerships with Tecno Ghana and Guinness Ghana. Alongside his independent travel content 'Scanty Explores' and vocal social media commentary, he has built a strong connection with online audiences across various platforms, making him an ideal candidate for Digital Content Creator of the Year.
Nene Odompleh strengthened his influence in Ghana’s digital media space in 2026, leading The1957News to win Best Blogger of the Year at the Ghana Arts and Entertainment Awards. He also organised a digital media creators’ networking conference and delivered a guest lecture at the University of Ghana, demonstrating his commitment to growing the industry. He is also one of the top names associated with the coverage of current affairs and other relevant news stories in Ghana.
Headless YouTuber continued expanding his digital brand in 2026 through shows such as Our Day with Headless and Crime De La Crime, alongside interviews with prominent Ghanaian musicians and entertainers. The ex-musician's growing production team and expanding content channels demonstrate his evolution into a multi-format creator and strengthen his case for the Digital Content Creator of the Year award.
The Breakthrough Talent of the Year category recognises emerging Ghanaian talents who made remarkable strides in their fields, gained significant attention and show the potential to become influential figures in their industries.
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King Donske made notable strides in 2026, earning recognition at the Ghana Comedy Awards and placing 23rd on the inaugural New Media Powerlist Ghana. His visibility across comedy and digital entertainment keeps rising. His booming digital presence led to high-profile media appearances, including a viral interview on TV3 Ghana's Showbiz 360 with host Giovani Caleb.
Also known as Big Sheeesh, Agbovi has been building his presence in Ghana's music and entertainment scene, with 2026 releases including April Fuul, Sala, Why and No Soapy (Kpinikpikpi). Each one helps define his identity as an emerging talent.
Smoaks digital chaotic, rapid-fire WhatsApp voice-note style comedy and viral TikTok skits, have brought him a lot of attention in 2026. Many heavily used his 2026 voice-note drops as background audio for reaction TikToks.
Kaly Kaly turned his personalised birthday jingles into a recognised online brand in 2026. His viral content and a Honda Civic gifted to him by Coffie X in September put him firmly in the spotlight.
RCee released the six-track Young Daddy EP in 2026, blending Highlife with Afrobeats and contemporary African sounds. His nomination for New Artist of the Year at the Ghana Music Awards USA points to growing recognition. He featured at the Nowhere Cool at 10 concert and signed an ambassadorial deal with Nima FC.
The Comic Creator of the Year category celebrates Ghanaian comedians, skit makers and social media creators who consistently deliver original, entertaining and relatable comedy that keeps audiences laughing.
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Jeffrey Nortey had an outstanding 2026, winning both Comedy Skit Act of the Year and Comic Writer of the Year at the Ghana Comedy Awards. His 3 Faces of Jeffrey Nortey production at the National Theatre showcased his creativity and versatility.
Opoku Bilson continued to establish himself in Ghana's comedy scene in 2026, earning a nomination for Comedy Skit Act of the Year at the Ghana Comedy Awards, on the back of humorous content made for digital audiences. The highlight of his year was the appearance at the O2 Indigo for Dr Likee's show.
Fahim and Mr Blay continued to entertain digital audiences in 2026 with their comedic skits and relatable humour. Their creative approach to comedy and growing presence on social media ensured the success of their first single, Asana, which has garnered over one million streams on Spotify.
Islamic Prince continued to build his profile as a comedy and skit creator, using expressive acting and humorous storytelling to engage online audiences. In 2026, he crossed borders into Nigeria, collaborating with Kikie and members of Kunle Afolayan's film circle.
Gyata Aboah has been building his presence in Ghana's digital comedy scene through entertaining skits and creative storytelling that connect with audiences. His unconventional way of critiquing the works of entertainers caught the attention of Okyeame Kwame, Reggie Rockstone, and others.
The Podcast of the Year category celebrates podcasts that stand out for their engaging conversations, quality production, originality, and ability to inform, entertain, or influence audiences.
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Sincerely Accra delivered relatable conversations about life in Ghana's capital in 2026, blending trending topics, listener dilemmas and celebrity interviews. Weekly episodes, including conversations with Joey B and Hayet Rida, kept audiences engaged.
The KSS POD maintained a strong publishing schedule in 2026, tackling social issues, relationships, entertainment and everyday Ghanaian life with humorous and provocative discussion. Its continued output and strong podcast chart performance set it apart.
Stay By Plan marked five years in 2026 with the launch of its sixth season, continuing its conversations about Ghanaian society, culture and lifestyle. Guests such as D-Black, E.L., Ladipoe and Sister Deborah show the range of the show.
Talk To Kula kept conversations going around Ghana's entertainment and influencer scene in 2026. Interviews such as the one with Gisela Amponsah, who discussed sponsored content and her decision to leave X; Captan delving into the Shatta Movement; Funny Face speaking on his mental health; and Showboy sharing his regrets, made waves online.
Street Is Watching built its digital presence in 2026 with content spanning Ghanaian entertainment, trending news, sports and culture. Its mix of interviews and topical discussions gave audiences a platform to engage with current issues.
The Dance Creator of the Year category recognises dancers and dance creators who push creative boundaries with innovative choreography, captivating videos and electrifying performances that inspire audiences and shape dance trends.
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Combos Man grew his presence in Ghana's dance scene in 2026 through energetic dance videos and engaging social content. He showcases trends and collaborates with other creators.
Lisa Quama made major international strides in 2026, going on a US dance tour that included a sold-out class in New York. She also represented Ghana at New York Fashion Week and Climate Week, using movement to showcase African creativity on global stages. Lisa served as a headline performer on the Dance in the East Festival stage in November 2026.
Afronita is known for energetic performances and for mentoring young dancers through AfroStar Kids Academy. Afronita and her AfroStar Kids Academy students performed at the opening ceremony of the African Senior Athletics Championship (CAA Accra 2026), TGMA 2026, and the 2026 AshantiFest. She also celebrated a personal milestone, graduating from the University of Ghana with a degree in Banking and Finance.
Lalli built her reputation as a dancer in 2026 through creative choreography and performances. She is the brain behind the massive "Everlasting" dance challenge, attracting participation from top-tier Ghanaian musicians like Shatta Wale and Sarkodie. Another major highlight of the year includes a critically acclaimed, high-energy stage performance with her dance crew at ShattaFest.
Abigail Dromo used dance to inspire young people in 2026, joining a talent-development initiative in the Central Region that aimed to identify and mentor promising young performers. The outreach adds to her established international profile. She also launched the 'Let Me Be' dance routine, which was designed to visually communicate personal freedom, resilience, and inclusivity through movement.
The Changemaker of the Year category honours individuals who have made a measurable and meaningful difference in their communities or society through impactful initiatives, advocacy, innovation or sustained efforts to address important social challenges.
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Amaro Shakur used his platform as a social commentator in 2026 to engage audiences and highlight issues affecting Ghanaians, sparking public conversation on matters that touch everyday life. His advocacy led to the national security clampdown on sand-winning activities on the cleared path for the Accra-Kumasi Expressway.
Twins Diaries founders, Fredrick and Patrick, used their platform in 2026 to mobilise support for vulnerable children and families, organising donations for bereaved twins and rallying support for malnourished triplets, including essential supplies and improvements to the family's living conditions. They organised the I Am Twin Conference, where many mothers and children were registered for health insurance.
Through the Samuel Whyte Foundation, Samuel Whyte Agyapong continues to champion road safety through public education with his "Drive Safe with Samuel Whyte" series. In 2026, his foundation provided physical and financial aid to major trauma hubs like Korle-Bu and supported victims dealing with the emotional and economic burden of road crashes.
Bones Man continued his philanthropic work in 2026, raising funds and mobilising support for vulnerable people. His flagship project was to solicit funds to build a washing and vulcanising bay at Sunyani Prisons. His efforts also included securing a wheelchair for a man in need and spotlighting individuals who need medical and social assistance.
As leader of For The Future Organisation, Kezia Asiedua Sanie Kermah spearheaded the maiden FTF Impact Summit: Changemakers Dialogues in 2026, bringing together more than 200 participants to discuss youth empowerment, collaboration and sustainable social impact.
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