Founder’s Vision — Nordic Africa Business Forum

Cecilia Naadensua Quarshie, Ghana-born and Finland-based entrepreneur and education leader, developed the Nordic Africa Business Forum out of a deeply personal commitment to bridging the business, cultural and investment gaps between Europe and Africa. Having started her Finnish journey overcoming significant barriers (Helsinki Times Article) , Cecilia recognised early on that meaningful collaboration requires intentional platforms where Nordic and African business leaders can share insights, forge partnerships, and co-create opportunities. Her vision for the Forum is rooted in empowering African innovators and Nordic investors alike, fostering sustainable business ecosystems that benefit both continents economically and socially. Through this forum — now established as a recurring summit — she aims to unlock mutual growth, attract capital flows, and enhance cross-cultural understanding across markets.  

Cecilia Naadensua Quarshie, also known as Mputo Hemaa Nana Abena Enyimba II, Traditional Dev. Queen Mother of the Abura Community in Oguaa Traditional Area, Cape Coast, Ghana. CEO of Ceci Educare Oy, a Board Member of the British & Commonwealth Chamber of Commerce Finland, and Special Envoy to the Nordic Region (International Society of Diplomats). 

info@nanaabena.org / www.nanaabena.org (As a Queen mother)

info@ceci-educare.fi / www.ceci-educare.fi (As an Entrepreneur)

Founder’s Vision — Prestigious Global Awards

As the founder of the Prestigious Global Awards, Cecilia Naadensua Quarshie sought to highlight and celebrate exceptional global leadership, innovation, and social impact across sectors. Driven by her own story of transformation — from working humble jobs in Finland to becoming a leading international speaker and CEO — she envisioned the Awards as a platform where outstanding changemakers from Africa, the Nordics, and beyond would receive recognition for their contributions to business, education, and community empowerment. The Awards not only uplift individual achievers but also amplify narratives of resilience, cross-continental collaboration, and sustainable development. In Cecilia’s own words, the Prestigious Global Awards are about “connecting, celebrating and inspiring excellence on a global scale,” reinforcing Finland’s role as a hub for international engagement and recognition.  

Prestigious Global Awards (PGA)

Background & Overview

The Prestigious Global Awards is a distinguished recognition ceremony organised by Ceci Educare Oy. It honours outstanding leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and organisations from around the world — with emphasis on contributions to leadership, business, social impact, and ethical practices. 

Held 1–2 times each year, this global platform is often combined with the Nordic Africa Business Forum to create a comprehensive summit and awards experience. 

The awards are designed not only to recognise excellence but also to inspire sustainable growth, ethical leadership, and global cooperation. 

Objectives

• Celebrate Excellence: Recognise individuals and organisations making significant global impact across sectors.

• Promote Global Collaboration: Build bridges between leaders across regions — particularly Nordic & African economies.

• Encourage Sustainable Impact: Highlight achievements in innovation, social change, entrepreneurship, and leadership.
  
  

Benefits to the Nordics, Africa & Finland

For the Nordics:

• Position Nordic leaders and innovators on a global stage.

• Facilitate cross-sector recognition, attracting talent and investment.
  
  

For Africa:

• Platform to showcase African excellence, leadership, and innovation.

• Strengthening of Africa’s reputation in global business and development dialogues.
  
  

For Finland:

• Enhances Finland’s role as a host nation for international recognition platforms.

• Fosters global networks that contribute to national economic diplomacy.

Example Awardees & Honourees

While official lists are hosted on the event platform, notable awardees and honourees include: 

• Former Vice President of The Gambia — Legacy Award recipient at the Awards in Helsinki.

• His Royal Majesty Oba (Prof.) Saka Adelola Ayokanmi Matemilola — Olowu of Owu Kingdom, honoured at the Gala.

• Diverse leaders across sectors such as diplomacy, entrepreneurship, and social impact from Europe, Africa, and beyond have been recognised in past editions.

Conclusion

Together, the Nordic Africa Business Forum and Prestigious Global Awards represent a dynamic dual-platform initiative that:

✔ Connects markets and cultures

✔ Recognises global leadership and innovation

✔ Enhances strategic partnerships between the Nordics, Africa, and Finland

✔ Amplifies Finland’s role in global business dialogues

These events are catalysts for sustainable economic growth, cross-continental engagement, and international recognition of impactful leaders and organisations.