Leadership

Anani Yao (AY) Kuwornu is a Ph.D. candidate in Strategic Communication and Public Relations at the University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland. He researches the use of strategic narratives in public diplomacy during crises and understanding how digital media facilitates communication in the context of civic or political action: intersecting between crisis communication, public relations and public diplomacy. Mr. Kuwornu is an accomplished industry leader with a proven track record of senior-level roles in international development, diplomacy, and corporate relations, spearheading institutional relations and implementing impactful communication strategies in diverse and complex environments. The ability to navigate and influence key stakeholder landscapes, consistently delivering strategies that improve reputation, foster brand loyalty, and effectively manage crises, is the hallmark of his career. For two decades in industry, Kuwornu worked with global brands like the United States Department of State, United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Tullow Oil Plc and Bank of Africa. He brings to GRASAG-USA, extensive leadership, having served as GRASAG General Secretary at the University of Ghana, Board Member for Life Link Friendship Schools and National President for the Ghana United Nations Students and Youth Association (GUNSA) - two leading institutions in model U.N. education in Ghana. He is a youth at heart with a passion for leadership development, diplomacy, and communication excellence. As President of GRASAG-USA, A.Y. Kuwornu commits to expanding the association’s reach and impact by developing strategic partnerships and deploying innovative programs to equip members with critical information, build community, and provide inspiration for members to succeed in graduate education and successfully transition to the workforce.