Meet Abena Kyei Boakye: The New Face of UTV

Abene Kyei Boakye is currently one of the most talked about television personalities in the country: she has exceptionally good looks pleasing to the eyes, wears a constant smile when greeting her audience and on television, she maintains an upright posture that exudes confidence.

Abena, the new face of United Television (UTV), recently joined the Despite Media Group – a strategic move that has increased her following and professional ratings. Not even her participation in a beauty pageant and her fling with film acting earned her the clouts she has had since appearing on UTV as a news anchor and presenter.

In an exclusive interview with The New Publisher on March 26, 2025, at the premises of Despite Media, Abena shared the story of her journey, challenges, and aspirations. She has carved a niche for herself in the media industry and a living example that  talent, determination, and faith can open doors to higher professional levels.

Reflecting on her career path, Abena noted: “I am convinced journalism is my purpose. Growing up, you will have a lot of encounters regarding what to do, where you want to be, and all that, but I have always loved to be the mouthpiece of the public.

“That was the main reason why I went for Ghana’s Most Beautiful, because I had a project to empower young girls. From there, I didn’t stop. I also had an interest in film acting as well. Currently, what I’m doing, in my opinion, is what I’m destined to do,”

Despite her growing success, Kyei remains grounded. She acknowledges the realities of public scrutiny, saying, “Once you are in the limelight, you can’t control what people say about you. But I focus on what is within my control. Balancing work and family has not been easy, but her passion fuels her drive. If you love what you do, you will always find the strength to balance it,” she affirmed.

Kyei remains committed to growth and excellence. “I am a work in progress. I don’t know everything, but I am always ready to learn. Ghanaians should expect nothing but the best from me. What they are seeing now is just a glimpse of what I have to offer,” she said.

Miss Kyei addressed the issue of integrity in the industry, revealing that she has never faced sexual exploitation in the media. However, her experience in the film industry was different.

“I have never been a victim of “sex for position” in the media or journalism industry. However, in the movie industry, a director once told me he wanted to see my nakedness before giving me a specific role, and I turned him down.

“This also contributed to me quitting acting and veering into media. But again, I repeat, in the media industry, I have never encountered such.

“I strongly believe in my talent. There are certain things that are a no-go area for me, I don’t tolerate them. So, I will say it is the favor of God and pure talent,”she highlighted

Nonetheless, she encourages young women to stand their ground and believe in their abilities.

 “If you are good at what you do, no one can intimidate you. Don’t rush for fame, prepare yourself and take opportunities as they come,” she stated.

Background

Miss Abena Kyei Boakye is a well-known Ghanaian media personality, admired for her confidence, professionalism, and great storytelling skills. With 15 years of experience, she has built a strong career as a host and presenter, known for her deep and engaging interviews.

Miss Boakye has always worked hard to improve her skills in broadcasting. At Kantanka TV, she became a familiar face, hosting Fontomfrom and winning the love of viewers across Ghana with her exciting presentation style.

Abena first became publicly known in 2011, when she represented the Brong-Ahafo Region in Ghana’s Most Beautiful beauty pageant, where she finished as the third runner-up.

Her passion for amplifying the voices of the public pushed her to contest in Ghana’s Most Beautiful, where she sought to empower young girls. But her journey did not end there. Her love for storytelling led her into the media industry, where she believes she has found her true calling.

She is also well-educated, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Management from Methodist University and a Master’s degree in International Relations and Diplomacy from GIMPA. Her strong educational background has helped her grow as a top media professional.

Over the years, her hard work has been recognized. In 2011, she won TV Personality of the Year at the Golden Age Awards.

In 2024, she received the Excellence in Broadcast Journalism Recognition from the 3G Awards USA, showing her impact in Ghana’s media industry.

Aside from her media career, Miss Abena Kyei Boakye is passionate about helping others.

Abena founded the Pad The Girl Project, an initiative that provides sanitary pads and menstrual hygiene education to young girls, especially those in deprived areas.

With her experience in media, her dedication to social work, and her love for learning, Abena Kyei Boakye continues to inspire many. She is proof that hard work, determination, and a clear purpose can open many doors.