It was a proud and emotional moment for Ghana as Wendy Shay emerged victorious at the 9th AFRIMA Awards, winning the coveted title of Best Female Artist in West Africa. In a category packed with heavyweights, the Ghanaian singer stood tall, beating the likes of Tiwa Savage, Ayra Starr, Amaarae, and Moliy to claim the prestigious continental honour.
For Wendy Shay, this win was not just another trophy. It was validation.
Taking the stage in Nigeria, the singer delivered a heartfelt and emotional acceptance speech that quickly became one of the most talked-about moments of the night. With raw honesty, she thanked God, Ghana, her loyal fans, and everyone who stood by her through the highs and lows of her career. Her message was simple but powerful: never give up.
At one point, Wendy Shay jokingly but boldly told the audience, “Thank you, AFRIMA, for breaking my virginity,” a line that sparked laughter, applause, and endless conversations online. It was classic Wendy Shay — confident, unapologetic, and real.
This win did not come easy. Over the years, Wendy Shay has faced intense criticism, online trolling, and doubts about her place in the industry. Many questioned her sound, her branding, and even her longevity. But instead of slowing down, she kept pushing. Song after song, performance after performance, she stayed consistent.
And now, AFRIMA has crowned her efforts.
When Wendy Shay arrived back in Ghana after the awards, the love was overwhelming. Fans gathered to cheer her on, celebrating her as a national icon who has once again put Ghana on the continental music map. Videos of the welcome flooded social media, showing just how much this victory meant to her supporters.
The Best Female Artist West Africa award is not only a personal achievement for Wendy Shay but also a strong statement for Ghanaian music. At a time when competition in West Africa is fierce, this win proves that Ghanaian female artists can still dominate on the biggest stages.
Many fans have praised Wendy Shay for inspiring young girls and upcoming musicians, especially those who feel discouraged by criticism or gatekeeping in the industry. Her journey is now being cited as proof that persistence, resilience, and self-belief can silence even the loudest doubters.
As conversations continue online, one thing is clear: Wendy Shay has earned her flowers. This AFRIMA win cements her status as one of West Africa’s most impactful female artists and marks a defining chapter in her career.
From Ghana to the rest of Africa, Wendy Shay’s message is ringing loud and clear — don’t give up, your time will come.
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