Ghanaian actor Kwaku Manu
Ghanaian actor Kwaku Manu has advised creatives not to rely on awards for validation.
Speaking in a discussion on United Showbiz on March 29, 2025, the actor shared his perspective, emphasising that he has never sought validation from awards, as they have never benefited him.
While acknowledging the value of recognition for one’s efforts, Kwaku Manu pointed out that the stress and expenses involved in attending award schemes often outweigh the benefits.
“Since I started working, I have not considered awards because they’ve done nothing for me. It’s good if you’re acknowledged for your efforts and your name is mentioned. But for someone to dress up, fly from Kumasi to Accra, and book hotel rooms for themselves and their team, what’s the point?” he said.
“It’s not like they’re even getting money from the awards. Forget about deals or opportunities,” he continued.
The actor also reflected on his experience with the Ghana Movie Awards, describing it as a waste of time due to the disrespect he and other Kumawood actors received.
“I went for the Ghana Movie Awards sometime back, and it was a waste of time for me. Those of us who came from Kumasi, our names weren’t even mentioned. The hosts mentioned all the names of the English-speaking actors and ignored us,” he recalled.
He further highlighted the collapse of the scheme when Kumawood actors stopped attending. “You could see that when the Kumawood actors stopped attending, the scheme collapsed. These award shows depend on celebrities to function. The moment the celebrities stop attending, they collapse. So what’s their use?” he questioned.
Watch the video below:
Don’t rely on awards for validation or success – Kwaku Manu advises creatives #UnitedShowbiz pic.twitter.com/DvnCBAvnYH
— UTV Ghana (@utvghana) March 30, 2025
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