A Historic Night: GUBA Foundation Co-Hosts Welcome Reception for First African Woman Commonwealth Secretary-General

On 5th June 2025, the GUBA Foundation and GUBA Enterprise had the honour of co-hosting the official welcome reception for the newly appointed Commonwealth Secretary-General, Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, in partnership with the Commonwealth Secretariat. The event took place at the esteemed Lancaster House, a fitting venue for a momentous evening of unity, vision, and global leadership.

Hon. Shirley Botchwey, the first African woman to assume the role of Commonwealth Secretary-General, delivered a moving and visionary keynote. In her powerful address, she emphasized: “The challenges are real, but so is our power to meet them.”

She called for unity, progress, and partnership across the Commonwealth’s 56 member nations, outlining a future built on cooperation, shared values, and transformative leadership.

The event was graced by an inspiring assembly of leaders, dignitaries, cultural icons, and representatives from Commonwealth-accredited organisations, all gathered to mark this historic occasion and reaffirm their commitment to a vibrant, inclusive Commonwealth.

As event organiser, sponsor, and co-host, the GUBA Foundation was proud to work alongside the exceptional Satvinder  Bindra, Director of Communications at the Commonwealth, to bring this vision to life.

Guests were welcomed in true Ghanaian style with a dynamic performance by the BLEMA African Drum & Dance Ensemble, uplifting live steelpan music, and a high-energy showcase that brought the vibrancy of the Commonwealth to life.

We extend our deepest gratitude to our incredible sponsors : Ben Delo Foundation, KGL Foundation, MyZeePay, and Comsec — for believing in the mission and making this event possible.

A special thank you to Fred Darko, CEO of e_voluntionint, for delivering yet another flawless production, and to every hand and heart behind the scenes who contributed to this unforgettable evening.

In addition to our role as co-host and organiser, the GUBA Foundation proudly showcased its flagship initiative, “I Am Not A Stigma”—a powerful advocacy programme raising awareness and breaking down barriers surrounding Autism in African & Asian ethnic minority communities. Through a dedicated display table at the event, guests were invited to engage with the impactful work we’re doing to challenge stigma, drive education, and support families across the diaspora and the continent.

Together, we are shaping a renewed Commonwealth – one of shared purpose, deeper partnerships, and collective progress.