Media personality, actor, and event producer George Quaye has issued a bold public statement addressing what he sees as an increasingly troubling trend in the entertainment and events industry — the commercialization of awards schemes.
In a passionate and no-nonsense message shared on his social media platforms, Quaye called out award organizers who demand payment from nominees or winners in exchange for participation or recognition.
Quaye’s statement reads:
“NOTICE TO ALL AWARDS SHOW ORGANIZERS! Please if there will be any form of payment; either for a chair, table, spoon, food or drink, the plaque itself, the music, the venue or any other thing, PLEASE DO NOT NOMINATE ME!” Twa!
This declaration captures growing sentiments among creatives and professionals who believe that awards should be based on merit, not the ability to pay. By sarcastically listing items such as a “spoon” and “food,” Quaye highlights how trivial and excessive some of these charges have become.
While he did not name any specific organization, Quaye’s message is a direct critique of practices within some award schemes that have turned recognition into a revenue model. These may include charging for nomination confirmation, requiring winners to purchase plaques or tickets to attend ceremonies, or tying awards to sponsorships and “support packages.”
The implication is clear: such practices undermine the credibility of the awards and diminish the value of the honor bestowed. They create a system where financial commitment overshadows genuine achievement.
George Quaye, who has played a significant role in Ghana’s entertainment industry — including as a former communications head for Charterhouse, organizers of the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (VGMA) — is no stranger to the workings of award systems. His criticism is therefore not just from the perspective of a recipient but also someone with insider experience in organizing such events.
His message echoes a wider call for transparency and ethics in how creative professionals are recognized. Many believe that if awards are to serve their true purpose — celebrating talent, impact, and hard work — then the process must be devoid of financial obligations or backdoor dealings.
Since posting his message, many creatives, especially those in the music, film, and media industries, have voiced support. Social media users have praised Quaye for speaking out, calling his stance brave and necessary.
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As more industry players begin to speak up, it remains to be seen whether this growing discontent will lead to reform or greater accountability from award organizers.
George Quaye’s message is more than a personal stance — it’s a public call to uphold the dignity and integrity of creative recognition. As the industry evolves, it’s voices like his that may drive much-needed changes in how talent is honored — not through cheques and tables, but through fairness and genuine appreciation.
