YFM, Ghana’s leading urban radio brand, is proud to announce the third cohort of six distinguished individuals selected for the #YPOWERICONS2025 campaign. The initiative celebrates exceptional young Ghanaians between the ages of 15 and 35 who are transforming industries and inspiring communities nationwide.
This latest group represents a dynamic mix of innovators, creative entrepreneurs, and influential voices who are leveraging their talents and platforms to drive meaningful change, elevate national pride, and position Ghana prominently on the global stage.
THE FINAL SIX Y POWER ICONS 2025
DARLINGTON NANA AMPOFO (DNA) – Youth Advocate
Darlington Nana Ampofo, popularly known as DNA, is a visionary entrepreneur and cultural architect shaping Ghana’s student and youth community. As the founder and CEO of Papcity Ghana, he has transformed a single idea into a multi-platform empire through pioneering initiatives such as High Skul Clique and Tertiary Buzz Africa. These platforms have redefined campus culture, empowering young people with opportunities, leadership, and entertainment while building vibrant ecosystems that connect students nationwide.
Through his initiatives, DNA has nurtured and supported emerging talents, including Adwoa Noella, lawyer April Nutakor, and U.S.-based media personality Chantal. His platforms have also provided stages that helped propel icons like Kuami Eugene, Kidi, and MzVee into stardom. With High Skul Clique, DNA has created a cultural phenomenon that bridges students and top artists such as Sarkodie, Stonebwoy, Black Sherif, Gyakie, King Promise, and many others, making it the heartbeat of youth entertainment across Ghana.
Beyond entertainment, DNA has built a brand synonymous with some of the country’s most anticipated student events, including Leavers Party in the Park, while organizing SRC activities in nearly every senior high school across Ghana. His work represents more than a company or brand—it is a movement and legacy in motion, transforming the student experience into a powerful cultural and social revolution that continues to inspire the next generation of Ghanaian leaders.
SALLY M – Musician
With a unique voice, vibrant style, and magnetic stage presence, Sally M is steadily carving her own lane in the music industry. Her artistry reflects passion, authenticity, and a deep connection to her roots, making her one of the most exciting female voices to watch.
From humble beginnings to gracing bigger stages, Sally M has built her brand on consistency and creativity. She has worked with top industry names, earned features across influential platforms, and thrilled audiences with performances that fuse rhythm, emotion, and culture. Beyond the music, she represents resilience and the new wave of Ghanaian talent breaking boundaries.
As she continues to release chart-worthy music and captivate fans worldwide, Sally M’s journey is more than entertainment — it’s about inspiring the next generation of dreamers. She isn’t just singing songs; she’s shaping a movement.
ISAAC MENSAH – CEO, Ex-One Entertainment
The Chief Executive Officer of Ex-One Entertainment, a company committed to creating impactful events that blend entertainment, empowerment, and social impact.
Under his leadership, Ex-One Entertainment has established three flagship initiatives:
- WRTP Awards – Recognized as one of Ghana’s most rewarding media awards, the platform has honored excellence in the industry by presenting two cars to outstanding awardees, sponsoring two top media personalities on trips to Dubai, and distributing over 50 television sets, 50 laptops, two air conditioners, two refrigerators, and numerous other packages to celebrate and motivate media practitioners.
- Miss Western Ghana – A prestigious regional pageant now in its seventh year, which has produced queens who have received six cars as part of their prizes. Beyond the glamour, the platform has impacted over 10,000 people nationwide through free hands-on skills training, empowering young women and communities with sustainable livelihoods.
- X Icons – A national reality show launched in 2024, dedicated to discovering, nurturing, and projecting emerging talents across Ghana onto bigger platforms.
Through these initiatives, Ex-One Entertainment has trained and groomed over 100 young women in pageantry, building their confidence, talents, and leadership skills.
Isaac Mensah remains deeply committed to leveraging entertainment as a tool for empowerment, community development, and national transformation.
PHIDALIA URIZINE MANTEY – Creative Director at Phidel’s Clothing
Its been six years Phidels Clothing was launched as a fashion brand. What started as a vision has grown into a thriving enterprise, shaping style and setting trends within Ghana’s fashion industry. Over the years, Phidels Clothing has steadily built a reputation for creativity, excellence, and innovation in design.
Beyond building a brand, Phidels Clothing have invested in the next generation of designers by training numerous students in the art of fashion design, many of whom are now pursuing their own paths in the industry. Currently, Phidalia continues to mentor and train more students, ensuring that Phidels Clothing remains not only a household name but also a hub for grooming future talent.
The brand’s work has attracted significant recognition and accolades, earning it respect in the fashion community. Along the journey, the brand has the privilege of collaborating with high-profile personalities such as Haillie Summey, Benedicta Gafah, and Teacher Blessing, among many other influential figures in entertainment. These experiences have enriched the Phidels Clothing story, positioning the brand as a symbol of creativity and impact in Ghana’s fashion landscape.
WINIFRED OFOSU BAIDOO – Beautician
Winifred has been redefining beauty with skill and passion. With five years of experience as a hairstylist and makeup artist, she has honed her craft to ensure every client looks and feels their absolute best. Her expertise spans a wide range of services including frontal lace installs, wig making, hairstyling, bridal makeup, hair coloring, and more.
Driven by a mission to enhance natural beauty, Winifred creates stunning, customized looks tailored to each client’s unique style. From special occasions such as weddings and photoshoots to everyday glam or pampering sessions, she brings artistry, professionalism, and a personal touch to every experience.
Through dedication and creativity, Winifred continues to build a trusted reputation in the beauty industry, leaving a lasting impression with every look she creates.
Lady Queen Blankson – Founder, Cake is Art
The founder and CEO of Cake Is Art, has been redefining the world of cake artistry since 2014. What began as a passion has grown into a thriving brand with three established branches across the Western Region, celebrated for blending creativity, excellence, and a personal touch in every creation.
Her remarkable journey has earned her several accolades, including the Woman Empowerment Award at the Amandze Awards and recognition as an EIB Star Woman. She has also received multiple nominations as Best Event Vendor (Western Region), reflecting her impact and consistency in the events and hospitality industry.
More than just a business, Queen’s work is a story of resilience, empowerment, and artistry. Through Cake Is Art, she continues to inspire and empower others, setting a high standard while leaving a lasting mark on the industry.
