The 2026 Ghana Outstanding Community Leadership Awards (GOCLA) has celebrated individuals and institutions whose leadership, innovation, and commitment to service continue to create meaningful impact across Ghana.

Organised by The Business Executive Communications Group (TBE), the prestigious awards scheme recognises community leaders and changemakers contributing to economic empowerment, social development, good governance, peace-building, philanthropy, youth and women empowerment, and improved living standards.

Speaking as guest speaker at the ceremony, Chief Executive Officer of Gamey and Gamey Group, Austin Gamey, urged community leaders and business-minded individuals to maximise their potential and contribute more meaningfully to Ghana’s development.

Mr Gamey said leaders have a responsibility to strengthen communities by expanding their impact, improving livelihoods, and creating opportunities for growth.

“As community leaders, we have the responsibility to add value to the community. Because if the community is sleeping, slowing down, not rising, it is not developing further. Really what it means is that we are limiting ourselves,” he said.

He noted that while many professionals and businesses have the capacity to achieve greater results, challenges relating to resources, skills, and expansion strategies often limit their ability to maximise their potential.

The 2026 edition recognised outstanding personalities across categories including Outstanding Community Leader, Community Philanthropist, Youth Empowerment Advocate, Women Empowerment Advocate, Traditional Leader, Healthcare Provider, Education Provider, and Community Project Financier.

Recipients were selected through a rigorous multi-stage assessment process involving research consultants and an independent Awards Selection Jury, rather than public voting, to ensure transparency, fairness, and objective evaluation.

The high-profile gala event, held at Alisa Hotel in Accra, brought together leaders, professionals, media practitioners, policymakers, development partners, and stakeholders committed to advancing grassroots transformation in Ghana.

GOCLA continues to provide a platform for celebrating unsung heroes and influential leaders whose dedication, resilience, and vision are helping to build stronger communities and contribute to Ghana’s socio-economic progress.