Award-winning musician, Stonebwoy has urged students of the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), to cherish and uphold their cultural values.
Speaking at the 2024 UPSA Cultural Day Celebrations, he highlighted the significance of cultural heritage in shaping personal and national identity.
Sharing his personal life journey, Stonebwoy revealed how his Ghanaian roots have significantly influenced his music and artistry.
He disclosed that even though he has experienced different cultures through his international exposure, his “roots in Ghana” hold a special place in his heart.
“The traditions, rich history, and resilience of my people have profoundly shaped my journey as an artist,” Stonebwoy said as he addressed local and international students.
“I believe that my cultural background not only informs my artistic expression but also enriches the narratives I share with the world.”
He stressed that music serves as a powerful vehicle for expressing cultural values and telling stories that communicate emotions, traditions, and experiences in ways that words alone cannot convey.
“Through my music, I draw inspiration from Ghanaian rhythms and African themes, especially from the Jamaican culture, creating a sound that is both local and universal,” he added.
This, he said, allows him to tell stories that resonate with people from diverse cultures, transcending language barriers and forming connections across generations.
Stonebwoy commended UPSA for organising the annual Cultural Day event, lauding its role in promoting cultural awareness and diversity among the youth.
He encouraged students to take pride in their traditions, advising them to showcase Ghana’s richness and diversity through their unique perspectives in whatever field they find themselves.
“Whether you’re in academia, the arts, business, or any other domain, your contributions reflect the vibrancy of our culture. Embrace your role as a bridge between cultures, and tell your stories with pride,” he urged.
The annual Cultural Day celebration was organised by the UPSA Centre for International Education and Collaboration (CIEC).
This year’s event was themed “Bridging Cultures, Shaping Futures.”
It brought together a diverse community of students, faculty, diplomats, and cultural enthusiasts, as well as some high-profile dignitaries. They included His Excellency Maher Kheir, Lebanese Ambassador to Ghana, Mr. Ben Gomado-Cobblah, Country Director of the Commonwealth Enterprise and investment Council and Prof. John Kwaku Mensah Mawutor, Pro Vice Chancellor of UPSA.
The event also provided a platform for international students from Equatorial Guinea, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, and Gambia, among other countries, to showcase their unique cultures and traditions laced with a series of talks, experience sharing, and performances.
