One evening during my time at film school, a group of friends and I had a unique opportunity to step onto the set of the popular TV show ‘It Takes Two’ as contestants.
This was a turning point for us, as we were usually behind the scenes as production assistants or set hands. Being part of the main action was a rare and exciting experience for us.
The set was located behind the Lancaster Hotel, previously known as the Golden Tulip Hotel.
The moment I saw a familiar face, Kwame Sefa-Kayi, who I would later collaborate with on various TV projects, commercials, and live events, my excitement reached new heights. It was like Christmas had come early for me.
However, my attention was soon diverted by a sharp, authoritative voice that pierced through the controlled chaos of the television set.
Stepping forward was Brenda Antwi, the director, a ‘tiny’ lady who exuded complete command over the set. Observing Brenda take charge that night was a revelation for me.
Despite having worked at Crystal Television in Kumasi, I had limited exposure to female directors in Ghana at the time. Names like Veronica Quarshie rang a bell from watching Ghanaian films, but my encounter with female television directors up close was minimal.
This changed when I witnessed Brenda in action, perfectly embodying what I aspired to achieve in my career with grace, confidence, and audacity.
Although our team lost the charades segment to the male contestants that night, the experience of watching Brenda work left a lasting impact on me.
She effortlessly called the shots from the control desk, showcasing her leadership skills. Following the shoot, I had a brief interaction with Brenda, during which I saw a reflection of my future self in her.
Brenda was already making waves during her time at NAFTI, winning multiple awards and accolades. Her talent and creativity were evident in her student film, ‘Weekend Fever,’ which received a nomination at the prestigious FESPACO festival in 2004.
After graduating, she continued to excel in the television industry, leading the creative direction of popular shows like ‘It Takes Two,’ ‘Agroooo,’ and ‘Miss Malaika.’
Despite her remarkable achievements, Brenda’s name is not as widely recognized as on-screen personalities in the industry.
She worked tirelessly behind the scenes, focusing on delivering quality content rather than seeking the spotlight. Colleagues and collaborators commend her attention to detail, preparation, and leadership skills, highlighting her commitment to excellence.
Like many women in demanding fields, Brenda faced the challenge of balancing her career ambitions with family responsibilities.
She made the difficult decision to step away from the fast-paced television industry to prioritize her family, a choice that resonates with many women navigating similar challenges. However, her return to the industry with renewed determination and passion underscored her commitment to her craft.
