Beyond the Frames: Kokui Selormey on Creative Expression, Storytelling & Building a Multifaceted Career in the Arts

Beyond the Frames features movers and shakers from the African continent and within the diaspora. Game changers in their own right, they use creative and innovative ways to make a positive difference in the black community. This month, we feature Kokui Selormey, a multifaceted creative arts professional making her mark in Ghana and the world.

 

 

Kokui Selormey has forged a distinctive niche as a creative arts professional and seasoned media practitioner. As a leading television and radio presenter Kokui has served as an award- winning media personality on such platforms as Viasat 1 TV, Citi FM and Citi TV (now Channel 1 TV). Kokui is a co-founder and Executive Director of The Band Kokui Foundation, an NGO that targets music education outreach and social impact through creative arts. 

Let's learn more about Kokui's journey in pursuing and combining her passions to make a powerful impact in Ghana (and beyond) in this month's Beyond the Frames feature.

Tell us a little bit about your childhood. What was it like growing up in your household and can you describe the moment you knew you wanted to pursue a career in the arts? 

My childhood was one of close family ties and culture shock! I was born in Ghana but live in the UK from infancy until I was almost 10 years old. Moving back to Ghana after growing up in the UK was definitely an adjustment. Leaving all of my childhood experiences behind in the UK and moving to Ghana meant I had to quickly adapt to a ‘new’ environment and a new way of life. But my awkwardness soon morphed into a deep appreciation for my homeland. Although I had an affinity for the arts, I never thought I would pursue a career as a musician.

Did you always want to start your own business? And if not, what led you to take the entrepreneurial route?

 

I actually wanted to become a lawyer! I think that as I grew in my career as a creative professional, the natural shift was to manage my own business as a freelancer, MC and voice teacher. I’ve also dabbled in the fashion business.

Tell us about your businesses Voicebox and The band Kokui. How did they get started and what has been their impact so far on you and the communities they serve?

 

VoiceBox is my vocal coaching venture. The Band Kokui was formed when I teamed up with some talented musicians to stage a concert in 2021. We enjoyed it so much that we continued that tradition. We collaborate as an ensemble but each of us also has solo endeavours. 

What has been your biggest challenge for the year with each business? How did you power through?

My biggest challenge has been juggling my many responsibilities while earning another Masters degree! It was worth the sacrifice though. 

 

 

What has been the most rewarding part of establishing Voicebox and The Band Kokui for you so far?

The most rewarding part of my work is the fact that my work doesn’t feel like ‘work.’ I thoroughly enjoy what I do, and that’s a blessing.

Who/what inspired you to follow your dreams when growing up?

My Dad certainly encouraged me to follow my dreams, and I was inspired to become an opera singer after I heard a recording of the legendary soprano Leontyne Price. I was mesmerised.

Where do you see yourself and your businesses in the next 10 years?

 

 

I see myself nurturing more art singers, establishing a full-fledged artistic training enterprise and becoming a Ghanaian cultural ambassador in a more official capacity. 

What advice would you give to any up-and-coming creatives in Ghana who want to pursue a full time career in the arts but are constantly encouraged to go the traditional route in a career? What would you say to them to keep pushing? 

 

When God blesses you with a gift, you have a duty to utilise it. Pursue it wisely, with the understanding that you must be able to support yourself financially as well. If that means working in a different field to support yourself while you pursue your artistic career, so be it. But never give up on your God-given talent— continue to invest in yourself and work on your craft.

How can people connect with you to learn more about your work?

 

People can connect with me on social media:

Instagram, TikTok and X: @kokui_selormey

Facebook and LinkedIn: Kokui Selormey 

YouTube, Apple Music, Spotify (and other streaming platforms): The Band Kokui

 

Photos were sourced directly from Kokui Selormey or from her IG page @kokui_selormey. Bôhten does not own the rights to any of the photos used in the article above.