Recess Model Agency grows from modelling group into events and hospitality brand

What began in 2011 as a group seeking modelling opportunities has grown into Recess Model Agency, a Ghanaian talent management and events company providing services across modelling, hosting, marketing, hospitality, event staffing, planning and coordination.

Founded by Ruth SEFAKOR Akumiah, the agency's origins are closely connected to her own experience as a model and marketer. Akumiah says she encountered situations where female talents felt pressured to remain polite to male leads despite disrespectful or inappropriate behaviour because they needed the jobs.

That experience motivated her to create what she describes as a safer space for women seeking to build careers in the industry.

Recess initially operated as a modelling agency before expanding its services to include hostesses, marketers, waiters and event planning and coordination. Today, the company says it focuses on creating seamless experiences for guests while helping clients manage the demands that come with organising events.

Akumiah believes event staffing is often underestimated.

“Most events and planners think event staffing is unimportant or is a minor part of the whole process,” she said. “But we play a very important role in your event. Your event can go wrong in different ways without the right staff.”

The agency has worked on a wide range of events, including weddings, seminars, concerts and conferences. Its stated clients and projects include Caveman Watches, Mastercard Foundation, Accra Brewery, GTBank, Accra Games 2023, the Afrexim conference and the World Trade Center conference.

According to Akumiah, Recess also goes beyond simply providing staff for an event. Its event planning background allows its team to identify and address issues that may arise, including matters outside the original assignment.

“We walk through the whole event process and make sure no stone is left unturned,” she said.

The company currently operates in Accra, Cape Coast, Takoradi, Kumasi and Sunyani, with ambitions to expand further and introduce additional services aimed at improving event experiences.

Alongside its event and talent management work, Recess is also the sole organiser of the annual Heels and Muscles Fashion Show, known as HNM Fashion Show.

The platform brings established designers together with student and emerging designers, giving younger creatives an opportunity to showcase their work and reach potential customers.

The 2026 edition, HNM26, is scheduled for October 10 at the National Theatre Exhibition Hall and will be held under the theme “Rebirth.”

Akumiah is keeping details of the show under wraps, saying, “Prepare to be mind blown!”

Designers participating in HNM26 are expected to interpret the theme in their own creative ways, while attendees will also have the opportunity to purchase fashion pieces directly from the runway.

Among the established designers listed for the show are Cozy Couture, Odefille, Bushai Weave, Klenam Chis Place and Trulyblack.

Regular tickets are priced at GH₵150, while VIP tickets cost GH₵250 and include front-row seating and HNM Fashion Show souvenirs.

For Recess, however, the broader ambition extends beyond one fashion show. The agency wants to become a household name for event staffing and seamless event services in Ghana.

“We keep your requests in mind and give you updates to make sure we are in sync with your preferences,” Akumiah said.

More about Recess Model Agency, its journey, services and the story behind HNM Fashion Show can be read on Recess Model Agency: From modelling to event staffing, hospitality and the HNM Fashion Show -TrenderHQ.