Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Model Abena Jon'el Shatters Disability Stigma on Ghana Runway

1/28/2026

47 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Abena Christine Jon'el, a Ghanaian-American model and writer, used a fashion show in Ghana to advocate for the visibility of people with disabilities.
Jon'el lives with a prosthetic leg and aims to change perceptions of disability in Ghana, where stigma persists.
Her journey began at age two when cancer caused amputation.
After moving to Ghana, Jon'el found belonging and purpose, and her runway appearance showed that disabled people can shine.

1 of 1

Story summary

Abena Christine Jon'el, a Ghanaian-American model and writer, used a fashion show in Ghana to advocate for the visibility of people with disabilities.
Jon'el lives with a prosthetic leg and aims to change perceptions of disability in Ghana, where stigma persists.
Her journey began at age two when cancer caused amputation.
After moving to Ghana, Jon'el found belonging and purpose, and her runway appearance showed that disabled people can shine.