Baaba Ankrah | Ghana | Cultural Pride
- EA
- Jul 11, 2024
- 2 min read
Global Leading Kente Ambassador 🌎 | Speaker | Mentor
Entrepreneur: Founder/CEO GOBA KENTE LIMITED
Once upon a time in the vibrant land of Ghana, a young woman named Baaba Ankrah found herself navigating the structured corridors of the corporate world. With a career spanning insurance, banking, and real estate, Baaba was on the fast track to becoming a chartered banker. But deep inside, she felt a spark of creativity and passion that the corporate hustle couldn't satisfy. By day, Baaba was immersed in sales, marketing, and customer experience. By night, she was nurturing a side hustle that began from the trunk of her car—selling exquisite Kente cloth, Ghana’s treasured textile. What started as a small venture soon gained traction online, but Baaba was torn. Should she play it safe in the predictable world of banking, or should she take a daring leap into entrepreneurship? The decision wasn't easy. Anxiety and self-doubt whispered caution, but her passion for Kente roared louder. Baaba took a bold leap of faith, leaving behind her six-year banking career to fully immerse herself in her burgeoning business. This decision marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey.
Baaba's company, GOBA KENTE, quickly became a household name. Her mission was clear: to create stunning, authentic handwoven Kente while empowering the weaving communities in Ghana. She provided consistent employment, encouraged self-development, and fostered a sense of pride and purpose among the weavers.
GOBA KENTE’s exceptional quality and innovative designs soon caught the eye of many. The Ghana Events Industry awarded it the Best Kente Weave in Ghana. Baaba herself was honored as the Best Female Entrepreneur by the Africa Women Choice Awards. But her impact went beyond awards. She became a symbol of resilience and cultural preservation, inspiring countless young entrepreneurs to follow their dreams.
Baaba’s creations traveled far and wide. Hollywood icon Sheryl Lee Ralph donned her designs, and even Pope Francis received a special Kente gift from Ghana’s Vice President and Second Lady. Each piece of Kente told a story of Ghana’s rich heritage, beautifully woven into the fabric of modern fashion.
Baaba’s journey wasn’t without challenges. She made mistakes and faced obstacles, but each day was a lesson, a chance to grow stronger and wiser. Her academic journey included a degree from the University of Ghana, an MBA in Marketing from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), and management studies at the China Europe International Business School (CEIBS) – Africa.
Today, Baaba Ankrah stands as a testament to the power of dreams, resilience, and cultural pride. She continues to lead GOBA KENTE with passion and vision, preserving Ghana’s cultural heritage and sharing it with the world. Through her journey, Baaba teaches us that sometimes, the most extraordinary paths are forged by those who dare to follow their passion, even when it means leaving the familiar behind.
In the colorful tapestry of life, Baaba Ankrah’s story is a vibrant thread, weaving together tradition, innovation, and a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
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