GhanaWeb has announced the nominees for the Humanitarians category of its 2025 Excellence Awards, recognizing individuals whose work has had a profound impact on society. This year’s list includes five distinguished figures whose efforts span entrepreneurship, autism advocacy, sports journalism, neonatal care, and sustainable living.

Entrepreneur and Business Leader: Richard Nii Armah Quaye

Richard Nii Armah Quaye, a Ghanaian entrepreneur and business leader, has been nominated for his significant work in supporting small and medium enterprises through his ventures. Born on 21 March 1985 in Jamestown, Greater Accra Region, Quaye founded Bills Micro-Credit, a financial institution that provides microfinance solutions to SMEs.

He also established Quick Angels Limited, Ghana’s first angel investment firm, which offers equity financing and mentorship to startups. In April 2025, he stepped down as CEO and Board Chairman of Quick Angels and Bills Micro-Credit to focus on his broader vision as President of RNAQ Holdings, the parent company overseeing his business portfolio.

Through his ventures, Quaye has funded and scaled numerous Ghanaian businesses across sectors, including food production, healthcare, and technology. His efforts have created thousands of jobs and strengthened Ghana’s SME ecosystem. He has been recognized in the 40 Under 40 Awards, the Young Achiever Male Award at the 10th EMY Africa Awards, and featured in Forbes.

Autism Advocate: Dr Ato Brown

Dr Ato Brown, a Ghanaian leader in autism advocacy, has been nominated for his work through Albert’s Haven Autism Foundation, which he co-founded with his wife, Effuah Hagan-Brown. The foundation was established after their personal experience raising an autistic child and aims to support individuals with autism and their families across Ghana.

Under his leadership, Albert’s Haven has developed a respite centre in Aseseeso, Eastern Region, providing a nurturing environment for autistic individuals, caregivers, and professionals. The foundation focuses on respite care, caregiver empowerment, community advocacy, and inclusive resources.

Dr Brown is also a strong advocate for expanding inclusive educational infrastructure beyond urban centres. He continues to champion dignity, accessibility, and opportunity for children with autism and their families throughout Ghana.

Sports Journalist and Advocate: Esther Agyemang Badu

Esther Agyemang Badu, a Ghanaian sports journalist and communications strategist, has been nominated for her contributions to promoting football development and inclusion across Africa. Her work has elevated the profile of African football on both continental and global stages.

In late 2025, she was honored at the Ghana Educators Prestige Awards for her professional excellence and mentorship in both the sports and education sectors. Through media and communication, she continues to amplify emerging talent and advance inclusion within sports.

Neonatal Care Advocate: Selina Bentoom

Selina Bentoom, a passionate advocate for improved neonatal care, has been nominated for her work in supporting mothers and newborns. Her journey as a mother of a preterm child born in Africa inspired her to champion stronger support systems and better healthcare outcomes.

Professionally, she is an international development consultant specializing in sustainable health system programs focused on maternal and newborn health. With over a decade of experience in human resources and development work, she has contributed to both national and international health initiatives.

Her leadership includes serving on the Advocacy and Communication Sub-Committee for National Newborn and Child Health under the Ghana Health Service, appointed in 2016. She also contributed to the 2018 WHO-UNICEF ‘Survive and Thrive’ report, demonstrating her global commitment to advancing newborn health.

Sustainable Lifestyle Advocate: Hawa Mutawakilu

Hawa Mutawakilu, a Ghana-based freelance journalist and sustainable lifestyle advocate, has been nominated for her work in promoting indigenous Ghanaian cuisine, plant-based nutrition, and mindful eating. Her contributions focus on food, culture, peace, and sustainability.

She contributes to media platforms including GBC Online, Angel Online, and OnuaOnline, and runs Hawa’s Sustainable Journal, where she integrates food journalism with ethical and ecological living. Holding a Master’s degree in Conflict, Human Rights, and Peace Studies, she applies her academic background to explore themes of community resilience and peaceful coexistence.

In addition, she serves as a Clean Cooking Community Advisor, supporting sustainable energy initiatives and cultural preservation efforts, particularly among women and households. Her work highlights the intersection of sustainability, cultural heritage, and community development.