Stories

When women journalists come together with a shared purpose—to sharpen their skills, challenge injustice, and amplify their voices—the atmosphere changes. Something powerful occurs. This is exactly what unfolded during the first week of HerPress, an initiative by Dikan Center designed to equip early- to mid-career women journalists in Ghana with the tools, confidence, and community to not just survive in the media industry, but to transform it.

HerPress launched with a clear objective: to strengthen Ghana’s media landscape by providing women journalists with essential skills, confidence, and networks needed for leadership. Within its very first week, the program began fulfilling this promise. Participants reported greater clarity about their career paths, renewed confidence to tackle complex stories, and a growing sense of community reflecting Dikan Center’s mission to create inclusive, transformative spaces.

HerPress is more than just sharing knowledge—it nurtures personal growth. Several attendees spoke of overcoming self-doubt. Theresa Adiali found renewed purpose in investigative journalism, stating, "I want to tell stories that sting, that heal, that question power without fear. HerPress doesn’t hand you a script; it challenges you to write your own."

Participants also described moving from fear of change to embracing it. Dorcas Davies, who previously feared change, shared that she now feels empowered by the fellowship to welcome new experiences enthusiastically. Such transformations are critical as they build the adaptability and resilience essential for impactful journalism.

Mentorship has been another key element of HerPress. Connecting fellows with experienced professionals creates opportunities for sustained growth beyond the three-month program. As these women build their portfolios through diligent research and ethical storytelling, their strengthened voices begin reshaping public conversations. This aligns perfectly with Dikan’s vision to nurture media leaders who drive meaningful change rather than simply reporting on it.

Perhaps the most powerful outcome is the solidarity forming among participants. When women collaborate, share insights, discuss challenges, and celebrate successes, they create a supportive network lasting far beyond any single workshop. This collective strength embodies Dikan Center’s belief that lasting transformation in journalism thrives within a strong community.

As HerPress moves forward, the initial momentum signals something significant: a growing group of women journalists ready to hold power accountable, uncover hidden truths, and share Ghana’s most pressing stories. Through their work, they are bringing Dikan’s mission to life—one story at a time, headline by headline.

HerPress Faculty:

·       Ewurama Bennin – Leadership, Ethics, and Leading Self

·       David Agbenu – Writing Skills and Editing

·       Francisca Enchill – Investigative Journalism

Accra, Ghana — Ethnomusicologist and musician  Professor John Collins has joined the Dikan Center as the head of its newly established Bokoor Department, a move aimed at preserving and celebrating Africa’s rich musical heritage.

Collins, renowned globally for his deep expertise and over 50 years of extensive research on African music—particularly Ghana's highlife—has entrusted Dikan with his extraordinary personal archives. This vast collection contains approximately six million culturally significant items, including rare music recordings, original papers, academic writings, musical instruments, thousands of historical photographs, posters, oral histories, and unique manuscripts and articles  gathered over decades. Prof. Collins is internationally celebrated for his pioneering research and extensive contributions to African musicology, particularly his in-depth study of Ghana’s highlife music. His career, spanning over five  decades, includes influential publications such as Highlife Time, West African Pop Roots, and African Musical Symbolism. These  publications  include  biographies of famous Ghanaian and Nigerian performers;  like  E.T. Mensah (Tempos),  King Bruce  (Black Beats),  Oscarmore  Ofori, Kwaa Mensah, E.K Nyame,  Thomas Ampoumah, Francis Kenya, Ignace  de Souza (Black Santiagos), Stan Plange (Uhuru), Blay Ambolley, Sammy Odoh, Otoo Lincoln (Kpanlogo), Kofi Ghanaba (aka Guy Warren), Nii Ashitey (Wulomei),  Kwese Asare, Bibie Brew,  Sonny Okosun,  Segun Bucknor, ‘Opia’ Bampoe (Jaguar Jokers),  Victor Uwaifo  and Fela Anikulapo Kuti.  Collins is also known for founding his  Jamestown  based Bokoor highlife band in the  1970s,  and then in the  1980s his  Bokoor Recording  Studio  in South  Ofankor Accra  which became instrumental in documenting legendary African artists and  profoundly impacting global perceptions of African popular music.   Some of the 200 artists/bands that  recorded at this studio  in the 1980s and 90s  include  King Bruce,  Mustapha Tettey Addy,  Kwaa Mensah  ,T.O. Jazz. Genesis Gospel Singers,  Koo Nimo,  F. Kenya.  Nana Danso Abiam’a Pan African Orchestra, Waterproof,. Super OD,  Smart Arpeh, Amartey Hedzoleh, Nii Nortey’s  Mau Mau Musiki, Ray Ellis, Shasha Marley,  Kojo Antwi,   Abebe and the Bantus,. K.K. Kabobo,. Lady Talata, Joe Eyison and  Sloopy Mike Gyamfi    

"Joining Dikan Center provides a tremendous opportunity to ensure these important cultural treasures are safeguarded and shared widely," Collins said. "We aim to inspire a greater appreciation and understanding of Africa’s diverse musical traditions."

Many items from the archives had previously faced deterioration and flood damage, but now Dikan is carefully digitizing and cataloging each piece. Upon completion, the entire collection will be publicly accessible at the Bokoor Room in Dikan's library, with select items featured in future exhibitions.

Under Collins’s guidance, the Bokoor Department will become a leading center for research and education in African traditional and neo-traditional  music, popular music and   theatre, and oral history. Key upcoming initiatives include the highly anticipated "100 Years of Highlife" exhibition in 2025, marking a century since the genre's inception. Collins will also lead efforts for international collaboration, notably working with UNESCO to recognize highlife as a global cultural heritage.

Dikan has also introduced the Bokoor Fellowship, which will support scholars, researchers, and cultural curators in archiving, research, and creating new insights into African music and traditions working with Prof. John.

"Having Professor Collins at Dikan greatly enhances our capacity to lead global discourse on African cultural heritage," said Paul Ninson, Director of Dikan Center. "We are excited about the possibilities his expertise and archives bring, not just to Ghana, but to the global cultural community."

Collins’s arrival positions Dikan firmly as a thought leader in preserving and promoting African music and cultural history, providing an invaluable resource for current and future generations.

Dikan Center has successfully launched the HerPress Initiative, a journalism fellowship designed exclusively to empower, train, and support women journalists across Ghana.

The launch event, held at the Dikan Center premises in Osu, Accra, brought together media professionals, government representatives, international dignitaries, and key supporters of the initiative. HerPress aims to amplify women's voices in the media by providing comprehensive training, mentorship, and professional growth opportunities. The initiative promotes gender equity within Ghana's media industry.

 "Today marks the beginning of a powerful journey," said Paul Ninson, Founder and Executive Director of Dikan Center. HerPress is about ensuring women's stories are heard, their perspectives shared, and their voices amplified. By empowering these journalists, we are investing in Ghana's future and strengthening our democracy." Mr Ninson stressed the need to create a space where women’s stories are not only told but heard and honored, highlighting how journalism should reflect the full human experience.

The launch featured keynote speeches, networking sessions, and a panel discussion on the challenges and opportunities for female journalists. Attendees included representatives from media houses, women's advocacy groups, and government officials committed to gender equity.

 The Australian High Commission provided significant funding to support the initiative, demonstrating Australia's commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment. Australian High Commissioner Ms. Berenice Owen-Jones stated, "Australia is proud to partner with the Dikan Center on HerPress. We believe strongly in the transformative role women play in journalism, aligning closely with our broader goals for gender equity and inclusive development."

 The commissioner further acknowledged the distinct challenges faced by women in the media space, including harassment, discrimination, and violence. She added that too often, female journalists end up self-censoring to protect themselves. Highlighting the potential long-term impact of the program, she expressed confidence in the future of HerPress and the journalists it supports.

Mr. Paul Ninson also acknowledged the Australian High Commission for its support and pledged to continue expanding opportunities for women journalists across Ghana and beyond.

 Upcoming activities under HerPress include intensive training sessions, mentorship programs, and specialized workshops led by local and international media professionals. The initiative will conclude with the HerPress Summit, an annual event celebrating and advancing women journalists in Ghana. Dikan Center encourages stakeholders, media organizations, and individuals passionate about gender equity and journalism to support the HerPress Initiative.

For more information, visit www.dikancenter.org/herpress or contact info@dikancenter.org.

Media Contact: Dikan Center PR Office; info@dikancenter.org

+233 59828219

“We want to improve the ecosystem of visual storytelling and education” Paul Ninson, Director, Dikan Center

“Obama: An Intimate Portrait” a solo exhibition by Pete Souza, curated by Paul Ninson and Alice Gabriner, made its historic debut at the Dikan Center on the 18th of November, 2023.

The commencement of the exhibition featured a talk by Pete Souza; Former Chief White House Photographer of former U.S President Barack Obama and Alice Gabriner; Photo editor - TIME, National Geographic, and The New York Times. Souza shared captivating stories of his interactions with President Obama and the first family during his tenure as their photographer. This dialogue underscored the profound significance of Souza’s work.

As the mastermind behind most of President Barack Obama’s iconic images, Souza recounted moments from accompanying him in crucial meetings, joining family trips, and, on occasion, respecting the need for privacy during personal family moments. Souza’s profound understanding of storytelling and photojournalism added a significant depth and insight to the photographs on display.

The U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia E. Palmer, who was also at the event, was delighted to view such an exciting display of works. “Photographs convey stories. One that deeply moved me depicts a black boy touching the head of the president. We are proud to have this wonderful photo editor, a man of talents.” She said.

Obama’s legacy extends beyond his time in office, in part due to the dedication and meticulous care given by Souza in assembling such an intricate portrait of the former president. The images, in an exemplary display of photojournalism, capture the character of Obama throughout his presidency and the transparency he championed during his time in office.

In the context of Ghana’s democratic process and the upcoming 2024 election, Souza’s work becomes a call for responsible media communication. It advocates for accuracy, truthfulness, and transparency in storytelling. “Obama: An Intimate Portrait” stands as an illustration of taking the lead and shaping powerful narratives that transcend even politics.

The talk concluded with a Q&A session, where the community engaged with Pete Souza and Alice Gabriner. Souza, in his responses, emphasized the meticulous care dedicated to the art of photography. He highlighted the sensitivity required when portraying an individual of such leadership stature, striking a balance between professionalism and empathy. Souza crafted a narrative of responsibility and intimate care, presenting a revolutionary documentation of the first black president in U.S. history.

The exhibition runs till February 18th, 2024, giving our community ample time to view and relive this groundbreaking presidency.

In every democratic system, the cornerstone of transparency, accountability, and the protection

of human rights lies in the freedom of the press. At Dikan, we know powerful storytelling is a tool

that can inspire, educate, and incite transformative change. Our recently ended 4-day

“Photojournalism: Crafting Visual Narratives” workshop provided a platform to master the craft

of captivating storytelling through the lens. In collaboration with the US Embassy-Ghana, this

was the final installment in a series of transformative workshops, activities, and events to

strengthen the capabilities and learning opportunities for photojournalists in Ghana. The goal

was to enhance media literacy and foster innovative visual storytelling to uphold, enhance, and

preserve press liberty within Ghana.

Leading the immersive experience were two distinguished figures: Pete Souza, the former Chief

Official White House Photographer to the Obama administration, and Alice Gabriner, a

renowned photo editor. The workshop began with introductions to Pete and Alice, and

participants introduced their own projects that would be used for review over the course of the

workshop.

Emily S. Fertik, Public Diplomacy Counselor at the Embassy, spoke to workshop participants on

the importance of ethical, bold, and responsible photojournalism and its role in fostering

democracy. This set the tone for a week that would go beyond technicalities, and explore the

essence of visual storytelling.

The workshop took participants through a comprehensive education of the core components of

crafting visual narratives. Participants had the opportunity to exhibit their work, engaging in

constructive criticism and receiving valuable feedback. Pete Souza guided them through

intentional questions, encouraging critical thinking about their subjects. Drawing examples from

Obama’s rally, the workshop covered techniques of shooting, emphasizing the importance of

setting, lighting, and subjects. Participants learned the significance of setting the visual scene of

an event a day before it unfolds and the importance of finding a focal point to tell a compelling

story — be it through capturing people’s faces or headshots.

As the workshop concluded, participants emerged having honed their skill in the art of crafting

compelling visual narratives, significantly enhancing their capacity to critique, question, and

illuminate perspectives through their lenses.

Reflecting on the learning experience, we are grateful to Pete Souza and Alice Gabriner for the

invaluable knowledge at their time with Dikan to impart an unforgettable learning experience.

Participants have honed their skills in several crucially important areas of visual storytelling,

improving the ability to communicate honestly and truthfully. As a result of this workshop, we

believe that we have enhanced the capacity of photojournalists in Ghana to adeptly cover the

upcoming 2024 elections through countering disinformation and safeguarding the principles of

press freedom.

In September 2023, the Dikan Center welcomed 10 eager students from schools in the local Labadi community to participate in the Canon Young People’s Program (YPP), a partnership with Canon that marked the official launch of the program in Africa. The goal of the collaboration is to empower the next generation of creative young people to address sustainability concerns through photography, innovation, and critical thinking.

The partnership was born from Canon’s recognition of the Dikan Center’s work in visual storytelling and education. This unique opportunity aligned Canon’s mission of creating opportunities for young African talent with the Dikan Center’s goals, and presented a valuable avenue to harness visual storytelling as a resource to foster social change.

For 10 weeks, students received comprehensive technical training in photography and a thorough education on the value of sustainability for the future, through the framework of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Under the guidance of a certified Canon photographer and experienced photography educators, students learned the intricacies of using a camera, developed their sense of composition, and mastered editing techniques. Empowered to become storytellers for sustainable change, students selected specific SDGs and captured evocative imagery to convey their personal narratives. Through guided classroom sessions, interactive technical lessons, critical thinking skills development, and hands-on practical assignments, students embarked on a transformative journey to harness the power of visual storytelling.

The partnership with Canon elevated the learning experience, providing tools and skills to address real-world challenges while fostering creativity and innovation. Students gained confidence in their abilities to use photography as a powerful tool for social change and expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the program.

As these budding photographers captured the essence of their stories within the inspiring setting of the Dikan Center, the Canon YPP equipped them with the skills to make a transformative impact in their communities. The initiative garnered positive responses from the students, highlighting the chance to raise their voices, learn, and bring their ideas to help others. The collaboration culminates in a curated exhibition of the students’ works during an end-of-year event organized by Dikan Center in December 2023. The exhibition will showcase the remarkable narratives captured by the participants, demonstrating the power of visual storytelling to inspire and drive positive change.

At Dikan Center, we believe in the power of visual education to create meaningful connections and empower individuals. That's why we recently organized a groundbreaking workshop exclusively for women aimed at fostering the growth and development of female photographers across Ghana.

 On April 29, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., a group of passionate and talented women photographers gathered at our center in Accra for a one-day workshop like no other. Led by the incredibly talented Jessica Sarkodie, this unique event provided an opportunity for female photographers of all levels to refine their skills and elevate their work to new heights.

 The workshop’s primary focus was to help participants cultivate their authentic voices through narrative and documentary photography. Through engaging discussions and collaborative exercises, the group explored the challenges that female photographers face in Africa and how to overcome them. The workshop served as a safe and inspiring space for these women to share their experiences, learn from one another, and discover innovative ways to carve out successful careers in the industry.

 With Jessica's guidance, the participants received valuable insights into professional networking, portfolio editing, and strategies for finding and creating paid opportunities. Additionally, if any of the photographers already had ongoing projects, the workshop provided a platform for further development, enabling them to expand their ideas and explore new directions in their work.

 Throughout the day, the participants actively engaged in group critiques, offering constructive feedback and advice to one another. The spirit of collaboration and encouragement was palpable as friendships were formed and lifelong connections were forged. The workshop nurtured a supportive community of women photographers, each with a unique perspective on the world and a shared passion for storytelling through the lens.

 Dikan Center is proud to have hosted this first-of-its-kind workshop, celebrating female photographers' immense talent and potential in Ghana. We firmly believe that diversity and inclusion are essential for the growth of any creative field, and this event served as a significant step toward creating a more equitable photography industry in Africa.

 We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Jessica Sarkodie for her exceptional mentorship and guidance throughout the workshop. Her expertise and dedication to empowering women in photography were truly inspiring, and we are immensely grateful for her contributions.

 As we look back on the Women Picturing Africa workshop, we celebrate the remarkable achievements of the participants and their commitment to pushing boundaries and telling compelling stories through their photographs. Their journey has just begun, and we are excited to witness the impact they will make in the world of photography.

 At Dikan Center, we remain committed to providing transformative educational experiences for all, and we look forward to organizing more inclusive workshops that empower individuals and communities through visual education. Stay tuned for updates on our future events, and join us in celebrating the incredible talent of photographers in Ghana and beyond.