Following the successful conclusion of the 15th Edition of the Voice Achievers Awards (VAA) and Business Dialogue 2026 in London, a post-event diplomatic courtesy visit was undertaken to the High Commissions of the Republic of The Gambia.
The delegation, led by Mazi Godson Azu and accompanied by Mr. Elvis Iruh, Publisher and Founder of The Voice Magazine and the Voice Achievers Awards, alongside two distinguished African fashion designers and cultural ambassadors — Ms. Eyram Fashions representing Ghana/UK and Ms. Amina Fashions representing The Gambia — was warmly received in London. At the High Commission of The Gambia, the team was graciously hosted by Her Excellency Dr. Fatou Bensouda, High Commissioner of The Gambia to the United Kingdom, in an engagement that reinforced cultural diplomacy and continental collaboration.
L-R: Mr Elvis Iruh & H/E Dr. Fatou Bensouda
The Gambia High Commission in London plays an important role in strengthening bilateral relations between The Gambia and the United Kingdom, as well as promoting Gambian interests, culture, tourism, trade and investment.
The meeting with Her Excellency Dr. Fatou Bensouda — an accomplished jurist, articulate exponent of international law, towering intellect on the global bench, former Justice of the International Criminal Court, global icon of justice, and now distinguished diplomat representing the government and people of The Gambia — was particularly warm and engaging.
L-R: Mazi Godson Azu & H/E Dr. Fatou Bensouda
She was visibly delighted to welcome the Gambian fashion designer who had participated in the VAA 2026 programme, where she presented a vibrant runway showcase celebrating Gambian creativity, fashion, and cultural expression.
Her Excellency expressed her appreciation of the designer’s work and shared her observations concerning the event. Her comments were constructive, encouraging and forward-looking, with positive feedback on the overall programme while also identifying areas where improvements could be made.
L-R: Ms. Amina & H/E Dr. Fatou Bensouda
She encouraged the organisers to learn from the experience, strengthen the relevant protocols and organisational arrangements, and return with an even stronger programme at the next edition of the Voice Achievers Awards, scheduled to take place in Amsterdam in 2027.
Her Excellency’s constructive observations were received with appreciation and humility. We believe that every successful international event must be viewed as a continuous learning process, and that honest feedback from diplomatic partners and distinguished stakeholders is essential to achieving higher standards.
L-R: Ms. Eyram & H/E Dr. Fatou Bensouda
Mr. Elvis Iruh and Mazi. Godson Azu also expressed their profound gratitude to Her Excellency for personally attending both the VAA Business Dialogue/Conference and the Awards Gala Dinner.
Her presence, together with members of the Gambian delegation, was deeply appreciated and regarded as an important demonstration of support for the objectives of the Voice Achievers Awards and its commitment to promoting African excellence on international platforms.
We sincerely thank Her Excellency and the High Commission of The Gambia for their participation, encouragement and constructive engagement.
Strengthening Africa–UK Cultural and Diplomatic Partnerships
The diplomatic courtesy visit was more than post-event protocol engagements. They represented an important opportunity to reaffirm the value of sustained relationships between African diplomatic missions, cultural practitioners, business leaders, media organisations and event platforms operating in the United Kingdom.
The Voice Achievers Awards has consistently sought to provide a platform where African excellence, entrepreneurship, culture, creativity, diplomacy and leadership can be celebrated and promoted internationally.
The participation of The Gambian diplomatic missions and their respective representatives further demonstrated the importance of collaboration in presenting Africa positively and creating platforms for greater cultural and economic engagement.
As organisers and partners, we recognise that international events of this nature require continuous improvement, effective protocol management, strong communication and close coordination with diplomatic missions and participating delegations.
The feedback received from the High Commission will therefore be carefully considered as part of our post-event review and planning for future editions.
From Ghana to The Gambia — and a Taste of Nigeria in London
Following the diplomatic engagements with the Ghana and The Gambia High Commissions, I had the pleasure of taking our delegation to Enish, Knightsbridge, one of London’s prominent Nigerian restaurants, for lunch.
It was a fitting way to conclude a day that celebrated the diversity, unity and cultural richness of Africa in London — beginning with Ghana, continuing with The Gambia, and ending with a taste of Nigeria in one of the capital’s most prestigious neighbourhoods.
Special appreciation goes to Mr. Elvis Iruh, who generously picked up the lunch bill.
Appreciation to Our Fashion and Cultural Ambassadors
I also wish to place on record my sincere appreciation to Ms. Eyram Fashions, Ghana/UK, and Ms. Amina Fashions, The Gambia, for their participation in the Voice Achievers Awards 2026.
Both ladies represented their respective countries with grace, creativity and professionalism. Their contribution to the cultural and fashion dimension of the event added colour, identity and a distinctly African character to the programme.
They were not merely fashion designers; they served as important cultural ambassadors, demonstrating how fashion can become a powerful instrument for cultural diplomacy, storytelling and international engagement.
We sincerely appreciate their accommodation, professionalism, patience, creativity and commitment throughout the programme.
Conclusion
Today’s diplomatic courtesy visits provided a valuable opportunity to say thank you to two important African diplomatic missions in London and to reaffirm our commitment to building stronger relationships based on mutual respect, partnership, learning and continuous improvement.
From Ghana to The Gambia, and from diplomacy to culture, fashion and Nigerian hospitality, the day was a beautiful reminder of the richness of Africa and the importance of bringing our different identities together on international platforms.
The Voice Achievers Awards 2026 may have been concluded, but the relationships, partnerships and lessons arising from the programme continue.
We remain grateful to Mrs. Sabah Zita Benson, High Commissioner of Ghana to the United Kingdom and Ireland, and Her Excellency Dr. Fatou Bensouda, High Commissioner of The Gambia to the United Kingdom, for receiving our delegation with warmth and dignity, and for their valuable support, constructive observations and continued commitment to strengthening Africa’s presence and engagement in the United Kingdom.
Ghana. The Gambia. Nigeria. Africa.
One continent. Diverse cultures. Shared aspirations. Stronger together.
Mazi. Godson Azu I International Development Expert | Global Affairs Analyst | Trade & Investment Facilitator | Leadership & Good Governance Consultant