Ghana’s Esther Cobbah takes up presidency of International Public Relations Association from 2026 – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

In a landmark development for the global public relations industry, Ghanaian leader and founder of Strategic Communications Africa Ltd (Stratcomm Africa), Esther A. N. Cobbah, has been elected as the upcoming president of the International Public Relations Association (IPRA) starting in 2026. The announcement was made during the 2025 IPRA Golden World Awards (GWA) Gala Dinner held at the Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra, Ghana. This milestone not only highlights the growing influence of African professionals in the global PR landscape but also underscores the importance of ethical communication in fostering international cooperation.

Analysis

Esther Cobbah’s Professional Trajectory

Esther A. N. Cobbah is a trailblazer in the public relations sector. As the founder of Stratcomm Africa, she has spent decades building reputations for businesses and organizations across the continent. Her expertise lies in crafting campaigns that resonate with diverse audiences while aligning with global standards. Prior to this appointment, Cobbah served as the president of the Institute of Public Relations (IPR) Ghana, further cementing her leadership credentials in Africa’s PR community.

The Strategic Role of IPRA

The International Public Relations Association (IPRA) is a non-profit, non-governmental organization established in 1947 to promote ethical communication practices worldwide. With 100 member countries and thousands of professionals, IPRA sets benchmarks for PR excellence and fosters cross-cultural dialogue. Cobbah’s election as president positions Ghana as a key player in shaping the association’s future, emphasizing inclusivity and innovation in global communication strategies.

Summary

During the 2025 IPRA Golden World Awards Gala in Accra, Esther Cobbah was lauded for her contributions to public relations as she assumed the presidency of IPRA. The event drew PR practitioners from across the globe, celebrating award-winning campaigns and honoring the industry’s adaptability. Outgoing president Natasa Pavlovic Bujas praised Cobbah’s appointment, calling it a testament to IPRA’s commitment to diversity. Cobbah, a vocal advocate for communication-driven peacebuilding, vowed to prioritize collaboration and empathy in her leadership.

Key Points

Practical Advice

Build Bridges, Not Barriers

Aspiring PR professionals can emulate Cobbah’s approach by prioritizing cross-cultural collaboration. Engaging with diverse stakeholders and emphasizing empathy in messaging can enhance trust and facilitate global partnerships.

Advocate Ethical Communication

Cobbah’s focus on integrity aligns with IPRA’s core values. Practitioners should adopt transparent, evidence-based strategies to maintain credibility and foster long-term relationships in an increasingly polarized media landscape.

Points of Caution

Navigating Cultural Nuances

While Cobbah’s election represents progress, public relations leaders must balance global standards with local contexts. Misinterpreting cultural sensitivities could undermine campaigns, particularly in regions with distinct historical or political narratives.

Managing Organizational Challenges

Leading IPRA in a post-pandemic, AI-driven world requires adaptability. Professionals must stay updated on emerging technologies and address ethical dilemmas such as misinformation, which Cobbah may need to tackle to maintain IPRA’s relevance.

Comparison: Cobbah vs. Other PR Leaders

Unlike traditional PR pioneers who focused on corporate branding, Cobbah’s legacy centers on leveraging public good. Her work with Stratcomm Africa on climate change campaigns and youth engagement initiatives highlights a shift toward socially responsible PR. Comparatively, figures like Sir Basil Galst, founder of PRSA, emphasized professional ethics, while Cobbah bridges this with grassroots activism and regional empowerment.

Legal Implications

As IPRA’s new leader, Cobbah must navigate the legal frameworks governing international PR practices, including data privacy laws and intellectual property rights. For instance, cross-border campaigns must comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe and similar regulations elsewhere. Additionally, her role may involve addressing legal disputes arising from misinformation or defamation—a growing concern in global PR discourse.

Conclusion

Esther Cobbah’s leadership promises to elevate IPRA’s global influence while amplifying African voices in public relations. By championing ethical practices and cross-border collaboration, she aims to redefine the profession’s role in solving worldwide challenges. As Ghana watches this historic moment, her vision for a connected, empathetic world offers a blueprint for PR professionals seeking to make an impact beyond their borders.

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