WHILE many have dismissed the Guinness World Record (GWR) attempts in Ghana as frivolous, reigning holder for Longest Make-up Application Marathon, Roselyn Akosua Mantey, argues these challenges have potential to shine a spotlight on the country’s creative industry globally given attention and support.
Roselyn, a make-up artist, who recently broke the previous world record of 24 hours and set a new one by clocking 103 hours, 25 minutes and 33 seconds, said the GWR’s platform provided validation that could elevate Ghana’s creative scene to international standards.
She stressed the importance of leveraging such global exposure to influence policies, investment and public perception.
“When people search for the record holder in this category (make-up), all eyes turn to Ghana. That is visibility which boosts our creative space and puts us on the global map. Achieving this record proves Ghanaian creatives are capable of global excellence.”
“But it should go beyond applause. Let this achievement spark real conversations about building infrastructure, developing creative policies, and investing in talent.
“We must stop seeing the arts as mere entertainment—the sector is a tool for empowerment and national branding.”
“I believe the nation’s creative sector is pulling its weight, and with a stronger push from institutions, it will indeed take the world,” she said.
And so, she further called for a more deliberate effort from stakeholders, government and private sectors as well as the media to champion growth in the creative sector.
“Ghanaian talents can shine globally. It takes a collective effort—from policymakers, private sector actors, and the media—for us to be heard louder on the global stage. We have the talent. Now we need the system to amplify it,” she added.
The make-up artist also called for greater recognition of the beauty industry, which she believes has been largely overlooked in Ghana.
Explaining, Roselyn said the beauty industry had vast economic potential and there was the need to reframe how it is perceived.
According to her, make-up artistry is a lucrative field in other countries. The sector contributes significantly to their economies—not just through beauty services but also in areas such as special effects and film production.
