Ghanaian social media influencer Gisela Amponsah has described actress and media personality Nana Ama McBrown as the true definition of an influencer, crediting her as a pioneer in the space long before the term became popular.
“She Was Influencing Before It Had a Name”
Speaking in an interview on Okay FM with Nana Romeo on April 21, 2026, Gisela explained that McBrown’s impact goes back to her early acting career.
“When we want to say who an influencer is, we would give it to McBrown,” she said.
According to her, McBrown was already shaping public perception and promoting brands effectively even before influencing became recognised as a profession.
A Legacy of Brand Influence
Gisela highlighted McBrown’s long-standing relationship with brands, noting her ability to connect with audiences and market products consistently over the years.
She explained that many modern influencers draw inspiration from McBrown’s approach to content and brand promotion.
“She has worked with a lot of brands and how she advertises them… that’s exactly what influencing is,” she added.
Influencing Is Not Just for Women
Beyond praising McBrown, Gisela also addressed gender perceptions within the influencer space.
She stressed that influencing should not be seen as a career limited to women, encouraging more men to take advantage of opportunities in the industry.
“If a woman can show her lifestyle online to inspire followers, why can’t men do the same?” she said.
How Influencing Has Evolved
Gisela further noted that the influencer industry has changed significantly in recent years, particularly after 2020.
She pointed out that:
- Content styles have evolved
- Audience expectations have shifted
- Payment structures have improved
“What we used to do back then is not the same as now,” she explained.
The Bigger Picture: Growth of Ghana’s Influencer Industry
Her comments reflect the rapid growth of influencer marketing in Ghana, where social media personalities are increasingly shaping consumer behaviour and brand visibility.
Figures like Nana Ama McBrown continue to serve as reference points for both aspiring and established influencers.
