The representative from the Bono Region, Nana Konadu, was crowned the winner of the legacy edition of Ghana’s Most Beautiful pageant, held on October 18 at the National Theatre in Accra. She won an MG ZS Deluxe Edition, sponsored by Mac Ghana, along with a cash prize of GHC200,000.
Nana Konadu triumphed over competitors Sessinam, Ampomaa, Tiwaa, Lamiley, and Ayinbomaa. The first runner-up, Sessinam, received GHC100,000, while Ampomaa secured third place and was awarded GHC50,000, along with souvenirs from the sponsors. Ayinbomaa finished in fourth place, taking home GHC30,000 and souvenirs, while Lamiley, in fifth place, received GHC20,000 and souvenirs. Tiwaa finished sixth and was awarded GHC10,000 along with souvenirs.
This 20th edition of the popular Ghanaian pageant emphasized themes of legacy, storytelling, and culture. The event was hosted by Anita Akua Akuffo and Cookie Tee, with judges Janet Sunkwa-Mills and Nana Hemaa Adwoa Awindor. The main theme for this year’s edition was “GMB@20 — Celebrating 20 Years of Culture, Grace, and Legacy.”
The event was attended by the Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, Madam Abla Dzifah Gomashie, along with other dignitaries. Below are brief profiles of all six finalists:
1. Ampomaa – Ashanti Region, from Tepa.
The Ashanti cultural custodian. Known for deep dives into Asante heritage – Golden Stool, Silver Stool, Bonwire Kente, Akwasidae/Adae Kese, and Lake Bosomtwe. Week 1 Best Costume winner and later Kivo Woman of the Week on Destination Ghana Night. For One Africa Night she presented Nigeria’s Hausa, Yoruba and Igbo cultures as one nation.
2. Tiwaa – Western North Region
Sefwi heritage advocate. Showcased Sefwi cocoa history, Bia Waterfalls, gold/bauxite resources, Oware, and puberty/naming rites. Awarded Best Costume on Rhythms of Our Land Night and Most Eloquent on Destination Ghana Night. For One Africa she presented Cameroon as “Africa in miniature”, featuring Ngondo Festival, Makossa/Bikutsi, Mt Cameroon and Lobe Falls.
3. Lamiley – Greater Accra Region
Paciencia Naa Lamiley Boye holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Theatre Arts, as well as a Master’s degree in Information Technology Law. She emerged as the first Star Performer of GMB@20, winning Week 1 with an outstanding Ga cultural masterclass that highlighted the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, Jamestown Lighthouse, the Homowo Festival, and featured her portrayal of the revered historical ruler, Naa Dode Akaibi.
Her performance earned praise from judge Janet Sunkwa-Mills for its authenticity and commitment to preserving cultural heritage. She also secured the Kivo Woman of the Week title. Renowned for her theatrical creativity, she made a memorable entrance to Nii Funny’s Ga Vibes. For her South Africa presentation, she captivated audiences with a Zulu bride-themed performance infused with Kwaito and Amapiano influences.
4. Ayinbomaa – Upper East Region
Keren Alayine Ayinboma is widely recognised as an eloquent and captivating storyteller. One of the competition’s most decorated contestants, she earned the Most Eloquent award in Week 1 and again during One Africa Night, where she represented Liberia. She also shared the Best Model title with Nana Konadu on Fashion Night and won Best Costume on Destination Ghana.
Among her most memorable presentations was her powerful narration of the Denyanga women’s resistance against slave raids. Her quest for the crown received a significant boost through financial support from Kacstone Records CEO, Wenawome Aborah, as she sought to secure the Upper East Region’s second Ghana’s Most Beautiful title, following Queen Poka’s historic victory in 2013.
5. Sessinam – Volta Region
The versatile performer distinguished herself with an impressive record of achievements throughout the competition. She earned the Star Performer title on both Rhythms of Our Land Night and Destination Ghana Night, while also being recognised as Most Eloquent on Traditional Delicacy Night. During One Africa Night, her presentation on Kenya stood out for its depth and breadth, exploring not only the country’s renowned wildlife safaris but also its diverse communities, rich history, and scenic Indian Ocean coastline. Her campaign received a major boost from the Volta Regional Minister, who pledged GH¢10,000 in support, making it one of the most notable examples of institutional backing documented during the season.
6. Nana Konadu – Bono Region
The late-season momentum queen made her strongest impact in the closing stages of the competition. She first claimed the Best Model of the Night title on Fashion Night before securing Star Performer honours in Week 10 during One Africa Night. Her Côte d’Ivoire presentation stood out for its rich cultural storytelling, highlighting the shared Akan heritage between Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, recounting the legendary tale of Queen Abla Pokou, and celebrating the country’s passion for football and the vibrant Coupé-Décalé dance culture. She became known for her ability to weave together themes of history, cuisine, cocoa production, and tourism in a compelling and engaging manner.
