You don’t see this many movers knocking back drinks and having a casual chat at every party. But every party isn’t the MOTY Party. 

The Man of the Year (MOTY) Party has become an essential stop on the EMY Africa calendar. It’s the pre-awards celebration that sets the tone for the big night ahead. It’s where the energy builds, the community reconnects, and the continent’s most influential creatives, entrepreneurs, and visionaries come together long before the trophies are handed out.

On Saturday, 1st November, Accra showed up in full force for this year’s edition themed “Denim & Diamonds.” The vibe was effortless but elevated. It was a perfect blend of sparkle and soul. The party stretched into the small hours, thanks to our list of impressive DJs – DJ Michy, DJ Dennys, DJ Faculty, Andy Dosty, DJ Loft, DJ Mac Tonto and Selecta Shaker – and the steady guiding words of our hosts, Dave Lamptey and Kojo Manuel. From the pulsating sets to the crowd of familiar and future icons, the MOTY Party once again proved why it’s the city’s most anticipated party.

Among those spotted on the carpet and the dance floor were Dr Ernest Ofori Sarpong, Dr James Orleans-Lindsay, Alex Dadey, Richard Nii Armah Quaye, Juliet Ibrahim, Nana Aba Anamoah, King Promise, Gyakie, Sefa, KiDi, Adjetey Anang, Juliette Bynoe-Sutherland, Richie, Sika Osei, and many more friends of the brand, each bringing their own style, flair, and energy to the night.

But amid the music and motion, one moment stood out. The lights dimmed, a cake rolled in, and the room turned reflective. In a surprise gesture, Labadi Beach Hotel, our gracious partners, presented a stunning anniversary cake to mark ten years of EMY Africa. As the cake was cut, glasses were raised to a decade of storytelling, recognition, and community, and to the decade ahead.

Because EMY Africa has always been about more than awards. It’s about the motion; the people, the culture, and the energy that move Africa forward. And on that night, the motion was in full swing.

Next up, The 10th EMY Africa Awards.