Celebrated Europe-based Ghanaian actress, model, author, and philanthropist, Dayan Kodua, was moved to tears at the Kotoka International Airport upon her return to Ghana after thirty-four years living in Germany.

She was overcome by her emotions when her foot stepped in Ghana for the first time after several decades.

Speaking to journalists at the airport on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, Madam Dayan Kodua said,

“I left Ghana when I was just ten years old,” she told journalists at the airport as she wiped tears off her face. Coming back to Ghana is like being more grounded in my roots."

She received a warm and emotional welcome at Kotoka International Airport in Accra on Wednesday, July 9, 2025.

Kodua, made history in 2001 as the first Black woman to win the Miss Schleswig-Holstein beauty pageant in Germany.

Though she has spent many years living in Germany, Dyan Kodua continues to hold her Ghanaian her Ghanaian roots close to her heart.

She takes pride in her Ashanti background and is fluent in multiple languages, including twi, german, English and French.

In Europe, she has built a reputation as more than just a performer.

She is recognized for using her platform to amplify diverse voices and cultural naratives.

After earning an economics degree from Kiel University of Apllied Sciences, she went on to study acting at respected institutions in Berlin and Los Angeles.

His screen work spans popular American and German productions, including roles in Boston Legal, Passions, Crank, and various local TV shows.

Running to Ghana holds deep meaning for Deyan as it symbolizes a profound reconnection and reaffirmation of the values she has spent her life promoting identity, empowerment, and cultural pride.