Television of Monday, 2 June 2025
Source: www.ghanawebbers.com
On Sunday, May 25, 2025, Ghana’s creative arts sector celebrated a milestone. The Ghana Voice Actors Community was officially launched.
Prince Dan-Vessel, host of The VO Playbook Podcast, led the virtual event. It brought together top voices from Africa to discuss voice acting in Ghana.
The webinar was themed “The Future of Voice Acting in Ghana.” Panelists included Kwesi Busia, Seraphine Dogbey, and Tolu “T-Code” Kolade.
They discussed industry challenges and opportunities for voice actors. Building a strong community was highlighted as essential for growth.
Panelists agreed that uniting Ghana’s voice actors is overdue. Seraphine stated that the conversation about community should have started years ago.
Kwesi emphasized that technological changes are reshaping the industry globally. He warned that Ghana must keep pace with these developments.
“The industry is evolving,” he said. “If we don’t build a community now, we risk being left behind.”
T-Code noted that voiceover work can feel isolating in Africa. He stressed the importance of communities for growth and sharing opportunities.
Prince Dan-Vessel moderated the event and shared his vision for the community. He said it aims to help voice actors support each other and showcase their talent.
A key theme was the untapped opportunities available locally and internationally. Kwesi pointed out that voiceover work can be done globally from Ghana if one is visible.
Seraphine mentioned that many local businesses need professional voice talent but struggle to find it.
T-Code encouraged proactive behavior among voice actors when seeking opportunities. “Voiceover is a business enterprise,” he said. “Don’t wait; pitch yourself.”
Despite promising prospects, several challenges remain in the industry:
1. Misconceptions About Voiceover: Many clients view it as "just talking." This undermines its value.
2. Access to Equipment and Studios: Professional studios are expensive and hard to find.
3. Lack of Industry Structure: There’s no standard rate card or formal association for advocacy.
4. Weak PR and Public Perception: The industry lacks visibility as a professional career.
Kwesi added that improving how they present themselves is crucial for recognition.
Panelists offered strategies for career growth:
- Keep learning through podcasts and online courses.
- Start simple; entry-level gear can suffice.
- Seek mentorship from experienced professionals.
- Market yourself using social media and demo reels.
- Actively pitch to potential clients.
- Build your reputation by consistently showing up professionally.
As AI voice cloning becomes more common, concerns about protecting vocal identity were raised. T-Code discussed tools like Voice123’s signature system to safeguard voices.
Kwesi noted improvements in platforms' detection capabilities against cloning misuse.
The event marked just the beginning of ongoing efforts within the community. Monthly webinars will be held along with training programs and mentorship initiatives.
“We’re building something long-lasting,” Prince Dan-Vessel said. “It’s time Ghana had a proud voiceover industry.”