Unsung Heroines: Driving Change One Story at a Time

How Vice Versa Media Ghana and the Tima Kumkum Foundation are shifting the spotlight to Ghana’s invisible heroines—starting with Khadija, the fearless woman behind the wheel.

In a society where women are frequently confined to subordinate roles, often leading to shattered dreams and unrealized potential, “Unsung Heroine” steps forth as a vital support system for these women. This initiative aims to rekindle their derailed aspirations and honor their resilience amidst relentless struggles. The Unsung Heroine Initiative was inspired by the observation that countless Ghanaian women, who make significant contributions to their families, communities, and society at large, frequently go unnoticed and uncelebrated. These mothers, sisters, and daughters courageously stand as breadwinners against countless odds, embodying strength and perseverance.

Among these remarkable women is Ismatu Yakubu, affectionately known as Khadija, who was featured in the inaugural episode of Unsung Heroine. Khadija is not just a name but a symbol of tenacity; she is a commercial vehicle driver who made the profound sacrifice of discontinuing her own education at the Primary 6 level so that her younger sister could continue pursuing her academic dreams. Leaving her hometown of Chereponi in the Northern Region of Ghana, Khadija embarked on a challenging journey to Accra, driven by the hope of a better life and the promise of greener pastures.

Watch first episode of Unsung Heroine – Khadija’s Story here:

The debut episode, now available for streaming on YouTube, immerses viewers in the inspiring story of Ismatu Yakubu, a courageous woman whose daily life is a vivid testament to grit, selflessness, and an unyielding spirit. As a commercial driver, Khadija navigates not only the bustling streets of Accra but also the complexities of life, showcasing her unwavering determination and the profound impact she has on those around her.

From Waakye Seller to the Steering Wheel

Khadija’s journey begins in Chereponi, a quiet town in Ghana’s Northern Region. With limited means but an expansive heart, she gave up her own education in Primary 6 so her younger sister could continue school. Years later, she arrived in Accra in search of a better life, navigating everything from sleeping arrangements to odd jobs—first as a waakye assistant, then as a security guard. But it was in the chaos of the streets that she found her calling.

“I realized I could not survive on the meager earnings I was receiving as a security guard,” she recounts. “So I convinced a driver to let me be his mate. I showed up the next morning ready to hustle.”

That hustle birthed a transformation. From bus conductor to licensed driver, Khadija now works the Madina–Tema Station–Ogbojo route with confidence and command—daily confronting and defeating gender stereotypes in Ghana’s bustling public transport system.

Yet, her story is far from over.

“I still want to start my own business, but I need to own a car. Right now, I make a daily sale of GHS220 to my boss, whether or not business is good. If I had my own car, I could plan, save, and maybe help others like me.”

Khadijah on the left and Cynthia Tima Yeboah

A Platform with Purpose

This is what Unsung Heroines is about: giving voice to the invisible pillars of our society. These women may never walk red carpets or grace magazine covers, but they hold families together, power communities, and carry hope in the most impossible of circumstances.

“This is not just about visibility,” explains Naana Yaa Boatemaa Asiedu, Country Coordinator of Vice Versa Media Ghana. “It’s about action. We want Khadija and others like her to access the tools they need to thrive. We want to help her get a vehicle—not as charity, but as a launchpad for autonomy and legacy.”

The Heart Behind the Voice: Meet Tima Kumkum

Guiding this emotional and transformative storytelling journey is none other than Cynthia Tima Yeboah, widely known as Tima Kumkum—a celebrated Ghanaian media personality, philanthropist, and women’s empowerment advocate. Tima brings authenticity, warmth, and empathy to every interview. As host and co-producer of Unsung Heroines, she creates a space where women like Khadija feel seen, heard, and honored.

Through her foundation, the Tima Kumkum Foundation, she has long championed the rights of vulnerable women and children across Ghana. This collaboration with Vice Versa Media Ghana is a natural extension of her lifelong mission: to uplift those whose lights have been dimmed by circumstance.

From Story to Change: How You Can Help

Unsung Heroines is not just a docuseries. It is a growing movement to change lives one story at a time. But no movement thrives without a community behind it.

We are calling on individuals, businesses, NGOs, and international development partners to join us. Your support can help Khadija and others like her acquire life-changing resources—commercial vehicles, business training, mentorship, and more.

Imagine Khadija as the owner of her own transport business. Imagine her mentoring the next generation of female drivers. Imagine the ripple effect.

You Can Be the Spark

• Watch the first episode: Unsung Heroine – Khadija’s Story
• Partner with us: gh@viceversaglobal.com
• For Donations Contact: +233 20 849 9223 / +233 30 396 2742 / +233 54 038 2106
• Follow our journey: YouTube @ViceVersaMediaGhana | Instagram: viceversamedia_gh | Facebook: Vice Versa Media Ghana | Twitter: viceversa_gh | LinkedIn: Vice Versa Media Ghana | TikTok: vice.versa.media

Every heroine has a story. Let’s make sure the world hears it—and helps write the next chapter.