Ghanaian media personality and executive producer Dede Chancelor has opened up about stepping away from the media spotlight at the height of her career, describing the decision as a necessary transition focused on family, growth and long-term purpose.
Speaking on The Dish hosted by Miriam Uduack Mensah, Dede Chancelor reflected on her journey into broadcasting, revealing that she entered the industry without formal media training or established connections.
According to her, she relied on passion, consistency and patience while learning the ropes behind the scenes before gradually transitioning into on-air roles.
“I was just glad to be present,” she said. “I knew I was in the right place, even if I was not yet in the right position.”
Over time, she built a successful career in broadcasting, working as a newsreader, co-host and programme host, while also becoming a recognizable voice in commercial brand campaigns.
Despite her growing success, Dede Chancelor revealed that she made the deliberate decision to relocate abroad and focus on family life, a move that generated public speculation at the time.
Clarifying the decision, she stated that she never abandoned her career but simply embraced a different phase of life.
“I did not quit. I simply stepped into another phase, knowing I would return when the time was right,” she explained.
During her time away from mainstream media, she became involved in building a family real estate business while raising her children and supporting her household through major transitions.
Now a mother of three, she described the experience as a defining period that reshaped her understanding of success, stability and personal fulfillment.
She has since returned to the creative industry through Chancellor Productions Africa, a platform focused on improving production standards and advancing African storytelling.
Dede Chancelor also stressed the need for stronger structures and investment within the creative arts industry, arguing that talent alone is insufficient for sustainable growth.
“There is so much talent here, but we need stronger foundations to carry it forward,” she said.
Her appearance on The Dish forms part of Season 5 of the programme, which features conversations with women making impact across media, entrepreneurship and personal development.
