The Hollywood and African Prestigious Awards (HAPAwards) has announced plans for its 10th anniversary celebrations in Ghana with activities aimed at promoting African creativity, strengthening diaspora connections and creating opportunities within the continent’s creative economy.

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, August 20, the founder of HAPAwards, Tins Weisinger, said the milestone goes beyond a decade of awards, describing it as a celebration of the organisation’s impact, relationships, resilience, creativity and cultural diplomacy.

“Africa has extraordinary stories, extraordinary talents, and extraordinary people whose contributions deserve to be recognized on a global stage,” she emphasised.

She said HAPAwards, over the past decade, has provided a platform for actors, filmmakers, musicians, fashion designers, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, influencers and other cultural icons to be recognised for their contributions to society.

According to her, the African creative economy has evolved into one of the most promising opportunities of the generation with African music, films, fashion, entrepreneurship and technology gaining increasing global recognition.

Tins Weisinger said the 10th anniversary is therefore about “building bridges” between Africa, Hollywood and the global community through recognition, collaboration, cultural exchange and economic engagement.

The anniversary celebrations will be hosted in Ghana with Kumasi playing a central role in the programme.

The Executive Producer and African Representative of HAPAwards, Adeola Odunowo said activities in Kumasi will run from October 7 to 9, 2026, under the Road to HAPAwards programme.

“This is not simply an awards program. It's a cultural and economic bridge,” he added.

The programme will feature an African showcase on October 7, Creators’ Night on October 8, and Kings’ Night on October 9 with opportunities for dialogue, networking, cultural exchange and business engagement.

Adeola Odunowo said the organisers want young people to view the creative industry not only as a source of entertainment but also as a pathway to employment, entrepreneurship and global opportunities.

“African culture is an asset, our creativity is an industry, and the years of heritage in Africa is an opportunity,” he said.

Representing the Manhyia Palace, Nana Agyanim Boateng welcomed the initiative, saying it could contribute to efforts to reconnect the African diaspora with Ghana and encourage investment in the country.

He urged Ghanaians to warmly welcome members of the diaspora and support the anniversary programme.

“The whole world is now looking for investments in Africa, and who is better placed to lead the investment drive than our own country, Ghana, where the majority of these diaspora gentlemen and women left our shores?” he asked.

The organisers are therefore calling on corporate organisations, institutions, brands and development partners to support the 10th anniversary celebrations as they seek to expand opportunities for Africa’s creative sector.

They say the anniversary will go beyond celebrating a decade of recognition to positioning African culture, creativity and heritage as valuable assets for global engagement, investment and economic development.