WomanRising Crush Wednesday: Women Shaping Maritime, Fashion, and Culture

This week, we shine the spotlight on three incredible women who are making waves in maritime advocacy, design, and cultural education. From ocean sustainability to intricate beadwork, these women are shaping industries with their creativity, passion, and leadership.

Rekia Larteykai Torgbor

Executive Director, Centre For Maritime Training and Development | Ocean Sustainability Advocate

Rekia Larteykai Torgbor is a visionary leader dedicated to ocean sustainability and maritime development. As the Executive Director at the Centre For Maritime Training and Development, Rekia is at the forefront of initiatives that promote sustainable practices in maritime industries. Her work focuses on creating opportunities for youth in maritime careers, offering training, mentorship, and advocacy to empower the next generation of leaders.

Rekia’s commitment to ocean sustainability goes beyond training; she is a passionate advocate for preserving marine ecosystems and raising awareness of the critical role oceans play in global sustainability. Through her leadership, Rekia inspires young people to pursue careers in maritime, while also fostering a deeper understanding of the importance of sustainable practices within the industry. Her dedication to both environmental and human development has made her a respected figure in the maritime world.

Christiana Sarpong

Bead & Applique Designer | Founder of “Where Art Meets Texture”

Christiana Sarpong is an artist who merges texture and storytelling through intricate bead and applique designs. Her work is where art meets texture, each piece meticulously crafted to bring elegance and beauty to the garments she embellishes. As a designer, Christiana combines tradition with modern fashion, using beads and appliques to create unique pieces that tell stories.

With determination, hard work, and consistency, she has grown her craft into a recognized brand that transforms ordinary clothing into works of art. Inspired by the words of Sam Levenson—“Don’t watch the clock, do what it does. Keep going!”—Christiana brings dedication to every stitch and bead, striving for excellence in each piece she creates. Her passion for design and her commitment to beauty make her an influential figure in the world of fashion, inspiring others to see clothing as a canvas for artistic expression.

Afia Frimpong-Manso

Journalist | Cultural Educator | Ancestral Poet | Akan Translator | Voice-over Artist | Event MC

Afia Frimpong-Manso is a multi-talented cultural educator and creative force. As a journalist and ancestral poet, she uses her platform to preserve and promote Akan culture, bringing a deep appreciation of heritage to the forefront of her work. Afia’s skills as a translator and subtitle specialist allow her to bridge linguistic gaps, ensuring that Akan language and stories are understood and appreciated by a wider audience.

In addition to her cultural work, Afia is a sought-after voice-over artist and event MC, using her dynamic presence and voice to engage audiences at various events. Whether it’s through poetry, education, or performance, Afia is a passionate advocate for cultural preservation and storytelling, using her talents to elevate the traditions and stories of her people. Her ability to blend education with entertainment makes her a powerful ambassador for Akan culture and heritage.

These women—Rekia Larteykai Torgbor, Christiana Sarpong, and Afia Frimpong-Manso—are pioneers in their fields, each bringing a unique blend of creativity, leadership, and passion to their work. Their contributions not only advance their respective industries but also inspire countless others to follow their dreams and make an impact.

#WomanRising #CrushWednesday #WomenInLeadership #MaritimeSustainability #FashionDesign #CulturalEducation #Empowerment #Inspiration