Sports News of Saturday, 4 August 2012

Source: Ghanasoccernet

Stephen Appiah to receive top showbiz award

Former Ghana captain Stephen Appiah will receive an award at the second edition of the annual Showbiz Honours Festival.

The award scheme which was constituted in 2011 is aimed at recognizing the immense contributions of Ghanaian celebrities towards society.

Aside leading the Ghana national team to two consecutive World Cup finals Appiah is also noted for his generosity.

His foundation StepApp has brought several reliefs to deprived communities in Ghana.

The 31-year-old who hanged up his international boots after the 2010 World Cup will receive the flagship award at a planned ceremony at the State Banquet Hall on December 24.

It is during the grand event that the former Black Stars captain will receive a cash prize of Ghc 20,000, a one-year office paid sponsorship for his foundation, an honourary plaque and an all paid weekend get away with his wife.

The flagship award is determined by a confidential committee (the college) for any individual within the entertainment circles for at least five years.

Chief Executive of the awards organizers Emklan Group Stacy Amoateng explained the choice of Stephen Appiah for the award at a press lunch on Friday.

“I believe the selection committee did a very good job in selecting Stephen Appih due to his rich football record,” she said.

“He also has a foundation which gives a lot back to the community and I am sure there are other things he does to better the lives of deprived people.

“He was the first captain to take the Black Stars to the World Cup ever and we are proud to work with him.

“I hope this is the start of greater things to come for Stephen Appiah and we are proud to be associated with him.”

The festival kicks off in October where a soccer event will be organized to unearth budding talents who will receive a scholarship to a reputable football academy in Ghana.