Gladys Apuweni, popularly known in the media industry as the “Queen of the Airways,” has spent more than 15 years breaking barriers in broadcasting and inspiring women across the Upper East Region. During a recent Equal Voices session, she shared her journey, the challenges she has faced in her career, and the transformative impact of Women in Broadcasting, an organization she helped pioneer.
Women in Broadcasting officially began on Feb. 13, 2019, following a studio discussion with female broadcasters. One posed a pivotal question: “We are vibrant women in media. How can we empower ourselves, amplify women’s voices, and advocate for children?”
The group quickly recognized the power of uniting women in media to create meaningful social impact.
“We decided to come together, pool our knowledge, and use our programs and platforms to reach out to women and children who cannot speak for themselves,” Ms Apuweni explained.
Since its inception, the organization has grown steadily. It marked its seventh anniversary on Feb. 13, 2026, coinciding with World Radio Day. Today, it operates as a nonprofit, independent organization dedicated to community empowerment and advocacy.
One of its major achievements has been in health advocacy, particularly breast and cervical cancer awareness. Since 2020, the group has organized screening exercises with health professionals, helping to detect early cases, provide counseling and refer patients for treatment.
“Initially, convincing women to attend screenings was challenging,” Ms Apuweni said. “We explained that their health is more important than money or work. Once they understood, they began advocating for themselves. Today, entire markets actively participate, spreading awareness on their own.”
The organization’s health initiatives are complemented by education projects. Through its Back to School program, more than 10,000 books and learning materials have been donated to schools across the region, including Nabdam, Talensi, Kassena-Nankana, Bolgatanga Municipal and Bongo districts.
“Supporting education is part of empowering the community. Every child who benefits today is a future leader tomorrow,” she said.
Ms Apuweni noted that broadcasting is not an easy profession, especially for women, emphasizing that it requires knowledge, intelligence, bravery and dedication.
“You don’t just wake up and become a broadcaster overnight,” she said. “People watch you, learn from you, and aspire to be like you. You carry responsibility not just for your career, but for the lives you impact every day.”
Her journey has not been without challenges. Covering elections and handling late-night assignments often meant leaving home early or returning late, sometimes without support from family or partners.
“I spent three days in the Talensi District covering elections as the only female reporter among men,” she recounted. “There were issues of trust, name-calling, and criticism. But I stayed committed because this is what I love to do.”
Despite criticism and societal expectations, Ms Apuweni has built a reputation that earned her the title “Queen of the Airways.” She credits early mentors, including Gifty Moshi and Auntie Sophia, for shaping her career and inspiring her to lead with excellence.
Beyond broadcasting, she has embraced mentorship as a key mission. She currently trains three young women in her studio, guiding them toward careers in media. One mentee from Nalerigu has purchased a form to study broadcast journalism at the Ghana Institute of Journalism.
“Mentorship ensures that knowledge and opportunity are passed on. Our work inspires the next generation of women in media,” Ms Apuweni said.
Women in Broadcasting also engages in leadership recognition and peacebuilding initiatives. During the 2024 general elections, the organization ran campaigns promoting peaceful elections across the Upper East Region.
“By God’s grace, our region remained peaceful while other areas faced challenges. That showed the impact of our advocacy,” she said.
Ms Apuweni hinted at plans for the rest of the year.
“Women in Broadcasting has something special lined up, initiatives that will set new milestones in the region and impact lives like never before. We will also honor colleagues who have dedicated themselves to the organization and inspired others to follow their path,” she said.
She emphasized that the organization’s work is driven by passion, not politics, and called on the community to support its future initiatives.
“When we seek your participation, it is for a good cause. Together, we can empower women, protect children, and contribute to the development of the Upper East Region,” she said.
Reflecting on her career, Ms Apuweni added: “There are sacrifices in this work. Sometimes we are not emotionally well, not comfortable, or physically exhausted. Yet we show up because our listeners depend on us. Our voice can brighten someone’s day, inform decisions, and save lives. Missing that opportunity means depriving them of hope and guidance.”
Her message to women in media is clear: perseverance, self-belief and courage are essential.
“Once you are determined to transform lives, educate, and empower others, you must be ready to pay the price. If you cannot stand for yourself, you cannot stand for others.”
With unwavering dedication, Ms Apuweni continues to lead by example, demonstrating how passion, resilience and vision can transform communities and inspire generations.
A1 Radio | 101.1 Mhz | Keziah Porepeya Nsoh | Bolgatanga
