His Royal Panford, founder of the Streets of Gold Foundation (SOG), has officially launched the Heroes Awards, a new national initiative aimed at recognizing and celebrating outstanding individuals who are making significant contributions to society.
At the press briefing announcing the awards, Panford stated the importance of acknowledging people’s achievements during their lifetime, rather than waiting until after their death.
He criticised the cultural tendency to reserve praise and accolades for funerals, arguing that such recognition should instead be given while people are alive to hear and benefit from it.
The Heroes Awards are designed to celebrate excellence across a broad spectrum of fields, including business, health, arts, fashion, digital innovation, and community service.
Panford stressed that recognition plays a critical role in encouraging continued impact and dedication.
By applauding efforts while contributors are still active, he believes society can foster a culture of excellence and inspiration.
Quoting leadership figures like Vince Lombardi and Charles Handy, Panford emphasised the importance of purposeful living, commitment to excellence and the lasting impact of positive contributions to society.
He noted that organisations and individuals who focus on making a difference tend to endure and influence others for the better.
A unique aspect of the Heroes Awards is its public-driven nomination process. The general public is invited to both propose award categories and nominate individuals who are making a tangible impact.
This inclusive approach ensures that the awards reflect grassroots voices and diverse accomplishments. Nomination categories are vast and varied, including “Live Person of the Year,” “Outstanding People Leader,” “Innovative Leader,” “Community Leader,” as well as industry-specific roles such as doctors, chefs, digital marketers, fashion stylists, authors, bloggers, and many more.
The grand awards ceremony will take place on 27th September 2025 at the Accra International Conference Centre, and is expected to attract top leaders, entrepreneurs, creatives, health professionals, and community advocates from Ghana and beyond.
According to Panford, the ceremony will not only honor excellence but also highlight mentorship and leadership in various sectors, showcasing individuals who uplift others while excelling in their professions.
The Streets of Gold Foundation (SOG), the organizing body behind the awards, is a Ghana-based, non-profit, and non-political organization committed to promoting human development, leadership, and social change.
Earlier in 2025, SOG hosted the successful BIG SIX Expedition & Conference, themed “Think Global – Act Local, Touch the Difference, Experience Ghana!”
In line with the upcoming awards, SOG has also opened a Call for Event Submissions for individuals and organisations.
