Stonebwoy, a multiple award-winning dancehall and reggae artist from Ghana, has revealed how his Ghanaian heritage has shaped his career thus far. He was giving a speech on the topic of "Bridging Cultures, Shaping Futures" at the University of Professional Studies in Accra's Culture Day event. The dancehall performer claims that even though he has had the honor of seeing many cultures around the world, he would always have a particular place in his heart for his Ghanaian heritage.
"My journey as an artist has been profoundly shaped by my people's traditions, rich history, and resilience," he stated. I think that my cultural heritage enhances the stories I tell the world and influences my artistic style. He emphasized that music is a potent medium for narrative and cultural values, conveying feelings, customs, and experiences in ways that words can't do. "I create a sound that is both local and universal through my music by drawing inspiration from Ghanaian rhythms and African themes, particularly from Jamaican culture."
He emphasized that this combination enables him to compose songs and narrate tales that speak to people from a variety of cultural backgrounds, overcoming linguistic obstacles and fostering relationships between generations. As a result, he has gained international recognition and served as an inspiration to numerous up-and-coming musicians. As a former UPSA student, Stonebwoy stated that he would like to use this chance to counsel students to highlight Ghana's diversity and richness by showcasing their individual viewpoints in any field they choose.
Regardless of your field—academic, artistic, commercial, or otherwise—your contributions capture the spirit of our society. He underlined, "Take pride in sharing your stories and embrace your role as a bridge between cultures." The Center for International Education and Collaboration hosted the 2024 Culture Day celebration. The Center fosters meaningful partnerships with institutions worldwide, hosts international students, and provides a variety of study abroad programs in order to advance global partnerships, promote internationalization, and improve cross-cultural understanding at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA).
Cultural dance from six African nations, performances from China, Korea, and Jamaica, exhibitions, food sampling, and presentations on immigration by the Ghana Immigration Service and mobility opportunities by the Ghanaian European Center were all part of the program lineup. With performers representing Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, and Sierra Leone dressed in traditional or ceremonial costumes, the international students showcased their nation's culture, emphasizing food, shelter, fashion, transportation, wildlife, art, geography, religion, significant landmarks, and history.
Deputy Minister of Tourism Arts and Culture Mr. Ben Gomado-Cobblah, Country Director of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC), Prof. Patience Abor of the University of Ghana Business School, His Excellency Maher Kheir, Lebanese Ambassador to Ghana and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, and Mr. Divine Owusu-Ansah were among the notable dignitaries present. Along with UPSA deans, directors, and department heads, the others included Prof. John Kwaku Mensah Mawutor, the new vice-chancellor, and Mr. Ebenezer Amuasi, the director of international relations at Wisconsin University.