Celebrated Ghanaian actress Akofa Edjeani opened up about the ongoing struggles women in the entertainment industry experience in an honest interview on Joy FM’s Showbiz A-Z.
She specifically addressed the problem of sexual harassment.
Akofa Edjeani acknowledged that while sexual harassment is prevalent in various spheres of life, it is particularly pronounced in the showbiz industry. During the radio show, she recounted a disheartening experience where she lost a movie role due to refusing to engage in a sexual relationship with a film director.
Sharing the unsettling incident, Akofa disclosed that while shooting movies in Kumasi, a Nigerian producer had requested that she lower her rates for two back-to-back films. Despite her reluctant agreement, she faced an uncomfortable proposition from the director, who invited her to his room under the pretext of watching a movie. Firmly declining, Akofa emphasized her dedication to professionalism, leading to her exclusion from the second movie.
Throughout her illustrious career, Akofa emphasized her unwavering belief in her talent, refusing to succumb to any demands for compromising situations. Her commitment to professionalism and resilience against such pressures have defined her journey in the entertainment industry.
In light of her experiences, Akofa urged aspiring women in the creative field to believe in themselves and avoid the advances of unethical people. Her message stands out as a light of empowerment, inspiring young talent to traverse the profession with confidence and persistence.
Akofa was not alone in sharing her insights; the Showbiz A-Z panel included comedian Jacinta Ocansey, event executive Whitney Boakye-Mensah, and musician Mimi Andani. Together, they added their voices to the conversation, contributing to a collective effort to address and eradicate the challenges faced by women in the showbiz industry.
Tune in to Showbiz A-Z on Joy 99.7 FM every Saturday from 2 pm to 6 pm to stay engaged in the discussions shaping Ghana’s entertainment industry.
