Ghanaian culinary sensation and digital content creator Chef Abbys, known off-screen as Abena Amoakoa Sintim-Aboagye, is inspiring a new generation of Ghanaian creatives following her groundbreaking participation in the 2025 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity in France.
Selected as the only African creator to represent TikTok at the globally revered event, Chef Abbys was part of a curated lineup of 50 influential creators from around the world featured on TikTok’s 2025 Discover List—a distinction that recognises creators who are redefining culture and creativity on the platform.
But her story began humbly—not under the lights of Cannes, but in her kitchen in Accra.
“Honestly, I started just to share the joy of Ghanaian cooking. I never imagined TikTok would be the platform that would take me from Accra to the global stage in Cannes,” she reflected in an interview.
Chef Abbys’ culinary storytelling, which blends traditional Ghanaian recipes with modern visual flair, has captivated audiences across continents.
Through her content, she promotes local ingredients, highlights cultural practices, and introduces global viewers to the rich narratives behind Ghanaian dishes.
Now, having shared stages with international creators and corporate giants like Nestlé and TikTok itself, Chef Abbys is encouraging fellow Ghanaian creatives not to wait for perfection before starting.
“Don’t overthink it, Abena. Just start. Your story matters, and the world is waiting to hear it,” she said—speaking to her younger self, and now hoping the message resonates with every aspiring creator who doubts their value.
“You don’t need perfect lighting or a perfect video. Be yourself, and let your culture shine through your content. Your perspective is valid. The world doesn’t need another copy—it needs you.”
In just a few years, she has gone from uploading simple food videos to securing partnerships with both local and international brands, launching digital cooking classes, and becoming a global ambassador for Ghanaian cuisine.
The Cannes Lions Festival is the world’s most prestigious event celebrating creativity in advertising, marketing, and communications.
Held annually in Cannes, France, typically in June, the festival brings together professionals from brands, agencies, media companies, and tech firms from across the globe.
AM/KA
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