FOR media personality Miriam Uduack Mensah, enough is enough. She is tired of seeing women in the media reduced to their looks rather than their brains, skills or talent.
The fixation on sensuality over substance is breeding a damaging illusion among young women in the media that they must “trade decency for visibility.”
In an exclusive chat with Graphic Showbiz on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, the award-winning presenter didn’t mince words as she condemned the rising trend of sexualising female brands, calling it “toxic and deeply unhealthy.”
“It’s unfortunate that in today’s media space, a woman’s worth is often tied to how much skin she shows instead of what she brings to the table,” she said.
“We are unconsciously teaching young girls that visibility must come at the cost of decency and self-respect.”
Recently crowned TV Personality of the Year at the Ghana Entertainment Awards (USA), Miriam believes it’s time the media and the public began celebrating women for their talent, intellect and contribution rather than their sensual appeal.
This is because this mindset is not only damaging to women’s confidence but also to creative authenticity.
“Branding should be about talent, authenticity and purpose, not about conforming to sexualised stereotypes. There are countless brilliant, hardworking women who deserve recognition for their craft, not their curves,” she emphasised.
Miriam was, however, quick to point out that embracing femininity isn’t the problem; the imbalance is.
“There’s nothing wrong with being stylish and confident, but it becomes harmful when that’s all people see. Balance is key, you can be feminine and still be respected,” she said.
When asked whether she had ever felt pressured to use her femininity as leverage in her career, the presenter admitted she had, but said she would rather be treated with the same respect as her male counterparts.
“I want to be treated like my male counterparts. I don’t want anyone to say, ‘Oh, because she’s a woman.’ I won’t use my femininity as bait to get ahead. I want to merit everything I earn. I will not compromise my ethics,” she stated.
When the conversation turned to whether the media space is safe for young women, Miriam’s tone turned serious.
“It’s a lion’s den. You have baby lions — the cubs and the mother lions. If you’re lucky to have a mentor or support system, you’re protected. But for many young women, I don’t think we are very protected in this industry because certain truths are not told us,” she lamented.
She called on female media figures to use their platforms to mentor and safeguard the next generation, emphasising that emotional safety and professional guidance are essential for progress.
“I think a lot of young women need more mentorship. We must protect young women and even young men from predators, from exploitation, and even from their own self-doubt. Real empowerment is helping them realise they are enough without losing themselves for attention,” she urged.
