About Grin

Grin is a multimedia organization that specializes in art consultancy, communication design, research and networking creatives. Our main mission is to promote the economic growth and development of African artists within the cultural and creative industries. We do this through research, art consultancy, curating exhibitions, pedagogy, networking, teamwork and collaborative workshops to understand the art market and deliver the best to satisfy our clients and the arts community. At Grin, we’re dedicated to improving, strengthening, and creating access to modern art, new media, culture and indigenous Knowledge systems in Africa. Grin has a solid team of highly experienced researchers, curators, artists, writers and multimedia content creators to serve the needs of Ghana’s expanding creative industries. We add more intrinsic value to art and artists through curatorial practice, communication design, branding and effective art marketing strategies. Grin also serves as a creative network to brand, promote and connect creatives for collaborative projects. Through art literacy, we connect artists, writers, researchers, curators, art investors, cultural producers and creative professionals to a wider global audience. Through this system of professional networking, we’re able to give more visibility to artists based in Africa to the larger global art community. Collaboration between creative professionals is integral to the growth of any Art industry. Grin Studios is passionate about ensuring this creative growth. We strongly believe that art can change the world. Being creative professionals gives us the opportunity to use our skills to transform lives in our society. Art also gives us the authority to empower, educate and shape minds for a paradigm shift towards social development in Africa. At Grin, we curate art exhibitions, brand corporate bodies and execute projects in Animation, Illustration, Design, Film and Photography. Grin also hosts a series of public lectures and art education workshops. Our research projects aim at using art as a tool in documenting, curating and promoting African art and culture. Grin has a curatorial focus on women, child prodigies, students, self-taught artists, indigenous artists, physically challenged artists, marginalised and underrepresented artists in local Ghanaian communities. Grin hopes to expand its curatorial focus to cover the West African Sub-region in the near future.

OUR CORPORATE POLICY

  • This document outlines the policies and procedures set forth by Grin Studios Limited to ensure ethical, legal, and professional standards are maintained across all operations and interactions. These policies apply to all employees, contractors, and partners engaged with Grin Studios Limited.

  • 1. Financial Procedures

    Purpose — To ensure accuracy, transparency, and integrity in the organization's financial management and reporting.

    Scope — Covers all financial transactions, including accounting, billing, and auditing.

    Key Policies —

    Adherence to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP): All financial statements will be prepared in accordance with GAAP to ensure consistent and reliable reporting.

    Transparent Financial Reporting: Grin Studios Limited will provide timely and transparent financial reports to relevant stakeholders, including investors, creditors, and management.

    Roles and Responsibilities —

    Chief Financial Officer (CFO): Responsible for overseeing the organization's financial management, reporting, and compliance with accounting standards.

    Finance Department: Responsible for recording financial transactions, preparing financial statements, and assisting with internal controls.

    Management: Responsible for reviewing financial reports and ensuring compliance with financial policies.

    External Auditors: Independent third-party professionals engaged to provide an objective assessment of the organization's financial statements.

    Compliance Mechanisms —

    Regular review of financial controls by internal audit and management.

    Comparison of financial statements to industry benchmarks and best practices.

    2. Anti-Fraud

    Purpose — To prevent, identify, and address fraud within the organization.

    Scope — Applies to all forms of fraud affecting the organization, including asset misappropriation, fraudulent financial reporting, and billing schemes.

    Key Policies —

    Zero Tolerance for Fraud: Grin Studios Limited has a zero-tolerance policy for any fraudulent activity and will take appropriate disciplinary action, which may include termination of employment and legal prosecution.

    Mechanisms for Reporting Suspected Fraud: The company provides various confidential channels for employees to report suspected fraud, such as a dedicated hotline, email address, or online reporting system.

    Investigation and Disciplinary Procedures for Fraudulent Activities: Allegations of fraud will be promptly investigated and addressed through a fair and consistent disciplinary process.

    Roles and Responsibilities —

    Management: Responsible for fostering a culture of honesty and ethical conduct, promoting awareness of fraud risks, and implementing effective anti-fraud controls.

    Employees: Responsible for reporting any suspected fraudulent activity and adhering to the organization's financial and accounting policies.

    Internal Audit: Responsible for identifying and investigating potential fraud risks and irregularities.

    Compliance Mechanisms:

    Implementation of a robust internal control framework to prevent fraudulent activities.

    Regular training for employees on fraud awareness, detection, and prevention.

    Establishing a clear and transparent whistleblowing policy.

    3. Bribery and Corruption

    Purpose — To prohibit bribery and corrupt practices in all business dealings.

    Scope — Includes all employees and business transactions, both domestic and international.

    Key Policies —

    Compliance with the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and similar regulations: Grin Studios Limited strictly complies with the FCPA and all applicable anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws and regulations.

    Strict No-Bribery Policy: Offering, promising, authorizing, or giving anything of value to obtain an improper business advantage is strictly prohibited.

    Training on Recognizing and Avoiding Bribery and Corruption: The company provides regular training to employees on recognizing and avoiding bribery and corruption risks in various business situations.

    Roles and Responsibilities —

    Management: Responsible for setting the tone at the top by demonstrating ethical leadership and ensuring compliance with anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws.

    Compliance Officer: Responsible for overseeing the implementation of the anti-bribery and anti-corruption program and providing guidance to employees.

    Employees: Required to understand and comply with the company's anti-bribery and anti-corruption policy and avoid any actions that could constitute bribery or corruption.

    Compliance Mechanisms —

    Conducting due diligence on business partners and third-party vendors.

    Maintaining clear and transparent financial records.

    Implementing a system for reporting and investigating potential violations of the anti-bribery and anti-corruption policy.

    4. Whistleblowing

    Purpose — To provide a safe and confidential means for reporting wrongdoing.

    Scope — Covers all types of misconduct, including illegal, unethical, or unsafe practices.

    Key Policies —

    Protection for Whistleblowers from Retaliation: Grin Studios Limited prohibits retaliation against employees who report suspected wrongdoing in good faith.

    Anonymous Reporting Channels: The company offers multiple anonymous reporting channels for employees to report suspected wrongdoing, such as a dedicated hotline, email address, or online reporting system. These channels are managed by an independent third party to ensure anonymity and confidentiality.

    Investigation and Response Protocol for Reported Concerns: All reported concerns will be promptly investigated by a designated team, and appropriate corrective action will be taken based on the findings. The reporting individual will be kept informed of the investigation process and outcome to the extent possible, while maintaining confidentiality.

    Roles and Responsibilities —

    Management: Responsible for creating and maintaining a culture of open communication and trust, where employees feel comfortable raising concerns without fear of retaliation.

    Compliance Officer: Responsible for overseeing the whistleblowing program, receiving and managing reported concerns, and coordinating investigations.

    Employees: Responsible for reporting any suspected wrongdoings in good faith through the designated channels.

    Compliance Mechanisms:

    Regularly communicating the whistleblowing policy to all employees and providing training on its procedures.

    Conducting independent investigations into reported concerns and taking appropriate disciplinary action where necessary.

    Monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of the whistleblowing program and making improvements as needed.

    5. Conflict of Interest

    Purpose — To identify, disclose, and manage conflicts of interest that may arise between personal and professional interests.

    Scope — Applies to situations where personal interests of an employee, contractor, or business partner could influence their professional judgment or actions, potentially harming the organization's interests.

    Key Policies —

    Mandatory Disclosure of Potential Conflicts: Employees, contractors, and business partners are required to disclose any potential conflicts of interest to the relevant manager or compliance officer immediately upon their identification.

    Procedures for Managing Conflicts: Identified conflicts will be managed through various means, such as recusal from decision-making processes, divestment of conflicting interests, or establishing appropriate safeguards to mitigate potential harm.

    Restrictions on Participation in Decision-Making When Conflicts Exist: Individuals with conflicts of interest will be restricted from participating in decision-making processes that could be influenced by their personal interests.

    Roles and Responsibilities —

    Employees, Contractors, and Business Partners: Responsible for disclosing potential conflicts of interest and avoiding situations that could create conflicts.

    Managers: Responsible for receiving disclosures and managing conflicts within their teams.

    Compliance Officer: Responsible for providing guidance on identifying and managing conflicts of interest, and maintaining a register of declared conflicts.

    Compliance Mechanisms —

    Regular training for employees, contractors, and business partners on identifying and disclosing conflicts of interest.

    Maintaining a clear and accessible policy on conflict of interest, outlining disclosure and management procedures.

    Periodic review of declared conflicts by the compliance officer and management.

    6. Modern Slavery

    Purpose — To prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within the organization and its supply chains.

    Scope — Covers all business operations and supply chains, both domestically and internationally.

    Key Policies —

    Compliance with the Modern Slavery Act and Similar Legislation: Grin Studios Limited is committed to complying with all relevant modern slavery legislation and ensuring its operations are free from the risks of forced or compulsory labor.

    Due Diligence Procedures for Suppliers: The company will implement due diligence procedures to identify and assess modern slavery risks within its supply chains. This includes risk assessments, supplier audits, and contractual provisions addressing modern slavery.

    Training on Recognizing and Preventing Modern Slavery: The company will provide training to relevant employees and suppliers on recognizing signs of modern slavery and procedures for reporting suspected instances.

    Roles and Responsibilities —

    Management: Responsible for setting high ethical standards and implementing measures to prevent modern slavery within the organization and its supply chains.

    Procurement and Supply Chain: Responsible for conducting due diligence on suppliers and ensuring compliance with policies.

    Employees: Expected to be aware of the signs of modern slavery and report any concerns through appropriate channels.

    Compliance Mechanisms —

    Conducting regular risk assessments of the supply chain.

    Including anti-slavery clauses in supplier contracts.

    Monitoring and auditing supply chains for potential risks.

    7. Health and Safety

    Purpose — To ensure a safe and healthy work environment for all employees, contractors, and visitors, and to protect them from work-related injury and illness.

    Scope — Includes all workplaces, activities, equipment, and work processes.

    Key Policies —

    Compliance with Occupational Health and Safety Regulations: Grin Studios Limited will strictly adhere to all applicable health and safety legislation, regulations, and industry standards.

    Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment: The company will regularly conduct hazard identification and risk assessments to identify potential hazards and implement appropriate control measures.

    Safe Work Procedures: Safe work procedures and protocols will be developed and documented for all potential hazardous tasks and processes.

    Procedures for Reporting and Addressing Safety Concerns: The company will implement clear and accessible procedures for employees to report any health and safety concerns and ensure that those concerns are promptly investigated and addressed.

    Provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): The company will provide and maintain appropriate PPE where necessary, and ensure employees are trained in its proper use.

    Emergency Preparedness: Emergency plans and procedures will be developed, communicated, and regularly practiced to ensure effective responses in the event of accidents, incidents, or natural disasters.

    Incident Reporting and Investigation: All accidents, incidents, and near-misses will be promptly reported, investigated, and corrective actions taken to prevent reoccurrence.

    Roles and Responsibilities —

    Management: Responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing the health and safety program, and providing the necessary resources.

    Health and Safety Committee/Representative: Responsible for providing advice on safety and health matters, developing safety procedures, and monitoring compliance.

    Employees: Required to comply with safety procedures, report hazards, participate in safety training, and use PPE as required.

    Compliance Mechanisms —

    Regular workplace inspections and audits to identify and address potential hazards.

    Training and education programs for employees on health and safety practices.

    Maintenance of records related to workplace health and safety, including training, incidents, and inspections.

    8. Data Protection

    Purpose — To protect personal data and ensure compliance with privacy laws and regulations.

    Scope — Applies to the collection, use, storage, and disclosure of personal data, such as customer information, employee records, and business partner data.

    Key Policies —

    Compliance with GDPR and Other Data Protection Laws: Grin Studios Limited will comply with all relevant data protection laws and regulations, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

    Data Privacy Notices and Consent Procedures: The company will provide clear data privacy notices and obtain necessary consent from individuals before collecting, using, or disclosing personal data.

    Data Breach Notification Processes In the event of any suspected data breach, protocols will be in place to contain the breach, assess the impact, notify the relevant data protection authorities and affected individuals as mandated.

    Roles and Responsibilities —

    Data Protection Officer: Responsible for overseeing compliance with data protection laws, data management practices, and handling data access requests.

    Managers: Responsible for implementing data protection measures within their teams.

    Employees: Required to handle personal data responsibly, in accordance with policies and training.

    Compliance Mechanisms —

    Implementation of technical and organizational security measures to protect personal data.

    Regular privacy training for employees.

    Periodic audits of data management practices.

    9. Ethics

    Purpose — To uphold high ethical standards in all organizational activities.

    Scope — Covers all employees and aspects of business conduct, including interactions with customers, suppliers, partners, and communities.

    Key Policies —

    Code of Ethics: Grin Studios Limited will maintain a comprehensive Code of Ethics outlining the ethical principles and values guiding organizational behavior and decision-making.

    Training on Ethical Decision-Making: Employees will receive training on the Code of Ethics and ethical decision-making frameworks to equip them to navigate ethical dilemmas.

    Mechanisms for Reporting Unethical Behavior: The company will provide accessible channels for reporting ethical concerns and ensure thorough investigation of any reported unethical behavior.

    Roles and Responsibilities —

    Board of Directors and Management: Responsible for setting the ethical tone, modeling ethical behavior, and enforcing the Code of Ethics.

    Employees: Expected to adhere to the Code of Ethics and act with integrity.

    Compliance Mechanisms —

    Integration of ethical considerations into decision-making processes.

    Regular communication and reinforcement of ethical expectations.

    Disciplinary procedures for ethical violations.

    10. Research Governance and Integrity

    Purpose — To ensure integrity and ethical standards in research activities and to promote responsible conduct of research.

    Scope: Applies to all research undertaken by the organization, including research involving human subjects, animal subjects, and sensitive data.

    Key Policies —

    Adherence to Research Ethics and Standards: Grin Studios Limited will conduct research in accordance with recognized ethical standards, relevant professional guidelines, and applicable laws and regulations.

    Review and Approval Processes for Research Projects: Research projects will be reviewed and approved by an appropriate research ethics committee or board to assess ethical implications and ensure compliance.

    Informed Consent: Where relevant, informed consent will be obtained from human research participants.

    Data Management and Publication Ethics: The company will adhere to responsible data management practices and publish research findings in a complete, unbiased, and transparent manner.

    Roles and Responsibilities —

    Researchers: Responsible for conducting research ethically, adhering to research standards, and obtaining regulatory and ethical approvals as necessary.

    Research Ethics Committee/Board: Responsible for reviewing research proposals, ensuring ethical considerations are addressed, and monitoring ongoing research activities.

    Management: Responsible for supporting a culture of research integrity, providing resources for compliance, and addressing research misconduct.

    Compliance Mechanisms —

    Training on research ethics and responsible conduct of research for researchers and relevant staff.

    Regular assessment and monitoring of research projects for ethical adherence.

    Established procedures for reporting and investigating research misconduct.

    11. Environment

    Purpose — To minimize the environmental impact of the organization's activities and strive towards sustainable practices.

    Scope — Includes all operational aspects affecting the environment, such as energy use, waste generation, resource consumption, and pollution.

    Key Policies —

    Environmental Sustainability Goals: Grin Studios Limited will establish clear environmental sustainability goals and implement strategies to achieve them.

    Compliance with Environmental Regulations: The company will adhere to all applicable environmental laws and regulations.

    Initiatives for Reducing Carbon Footprint and Waste: The company will implement initiatives to conserve energy, optimize resource use, reduce waste generation, and promote recycling and responsible disposal practices.

    Roles and Responsibilities —

    Management: Responsible for setting environmental sustainability goals, developing plans, allocating resources, and monitoring progress.

    Sustainability Committee/Officer: Responsible for developing and implementing environmental policies, assessing environmental impacts, and promoting environmental awareness.

    Employees: Expected to comply with environmental policies, make conscious choices in resource use, and participate in sustainability initiatives

    Compliance Mechanisms —

    Assessment of the organization's environmental footprint.

    Regular environmental training and awareness programs for employees.

    Monitoring and reporting on environmental performance against targets.

    12. IT

    Purpose — To ensure the security, availability, and integrity of IT systems and data, protecting them from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction.

    Scope — Covers all IT infrastructure, systems, and data management practices.

    Key Policies —

    IT Security Protocols: Grin Studios Limited will implement robust IT security policies and protocols to manage access controls, data encryption, threat detection, and incident response.

    Data Backup and Disaster Recovery Plans: The company will maintain comprehensive data backup and disaster recovery plans to ensure data integrity and business continuity in the event of disruptions.

    Acceptable Use Policy for IT Resources: The company will establish an Acceptable Use Policy outlining appropriate and prohibited use of IT systems, networks, and data.

    Roles and Responsibilities —

    IT Department: Responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining security measures, and responding to security incidents.

    Management: Responsible for providing resources and support for IT security, and setting expectations for secure IT practices.

    Employees: Required to comply with IT security policies, report IT security issues, and use IT resources responsibly.

    Compliance Mechanisms —

    Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing of IT systems.

    Employee training on IT security awareness and best practices.

    Monitoring and auditing of IT systems for compliance.

    13. Safeguarding

    Purpose: To protect individuals, specifically children, young people, or vulnerable adults, from harm, abuse, and neglect within the organization's sphere of influence.

    Scope: Applies to all situations where employees or contractors interact with vulnerable groups or where the organization's activities might have an impact on their safety and well-being.

    Key Policies —

    Safeguarding Procedures and Reporting Mechanisms: Grin Studios Limited will develop and implement clear safeguarding procedures, including mechanisms for reporting and responding to concerns or allegations of abuse or neglect.

    Training on Recognizing and Responding to Safeguarding Issues: The company will provide safeguarding training to employees and relevant stakeholders to help them identify signs of abuse or neglect and follow appropriate reporting protocols.

    Compliance with Relevant Safeguarding Laws and Standards: The company will adhere to applicable laws, regulations, and professional standards related to safeguarding.

    Roles and Responsibilities —

    Management: Responsible for establishing a safeguarding culture, developing and implementing policies, and ensuring compliance.

    Safeguarding Officer: Designated to oversee safeguarding procedures, provide advice and guidance, and manage safeguarding concerns within the organization.

    Employees: Expected to be aware of safeguarding issues, report concerns, and act in the best interests of vulnerable groups.

    Compliance Mechanisms —

    Pre-employment screening practices for roles that involve working with vulnerable groups.

    Collaboration with external agencies or authorities in the investigation and response to safeguarding concerns.

    Regular review and updates to safeguarding policies and procedures.

OUR SERVICES

  • We offer a wide range of communication design services. Our core areas include drawing and producing digital illustrations for children’s literature, comics, graphic novels, storyboards, interactive media, public health manuals and textbooks. We also design mascots, characters, logos and brand manuals for institutions and corporate organisations. Our graphic design team specialises in book cover design, typesetting, poster designs, billboards, album art, infographics and web banners. Our multimedia services focus on developing effective brand strategies for start-ups, established institutions and corporate bodies. We specialise in social media management, content development and online advertising strategy. We also produce digital images, short documentaries, animation, architectural visualisation and visual effects for film productions.

  • Research has been integral to the growth and development of thriving economies. Through our field experience, we've been able to travel and explore all the regions of Ghana for research-related activities. We engage in various research work and field activities including data collection, market surveys, data visualisation and qualitative/quantitative data analysis for corporate bodies and academic institutions. Our data collection activities include ethnographic filming, field photography, digital archiving, audio recording and transcription of field data. Our research team is equipped with the technical expertise in using data analysis applications to generate accurate data, archive data, analyze data and disseminate research findings. The research areas we’ve worked in cover a broad range of disciplines including Legal Research, Religious Studies, Visual Anthropology, Economics, Philosophy, Psychology, Art History, Linguistics, New Media, Performance Studies, Journalism, Sociology, Policy, Creative Entrepreneurship, Environmental Studies, Design, Public Health, Conflict Studies etc.

  • We firmly believe the Ghana art ecosystem needs to thrive on professionalism and expert art advisory for more creative development. Grin's art advisory service is dedicated to guiding collectors, institutions, and art enthusiasts in the acquisition and appreciation of African art. We offer expert advice on building and managing art collections, whether for investment, educational, or aesthetic purposes. Our team stays abreast of the latest trends and developments in the art market, providing clients with informed insights into the value and significance of various artworks. We assist in sourcing artworks, negotiating purchases, and ensuring the authenticity and provenance of each piece. Our advisory services also include art appraisal, collection management, and guidance on display and conservation, ensuring that our clients make informed decisions that enhance their connection with African art and culture.

  • Publishing high-quality research work has been a core guiding principle of Grin’s editorial team. Our editorial board is made up of scholars and editors with professional experience in assessing, proofreading and editing manuscripts for publication. Through our expert editorial consultancy, we’ve worked with academic institutions, publishers, government bodies, design firms, film producers, writers and independent scholars to edit and review published materials.  Our team of editors provide editorial consultancy to assist all your academic needs.

  • We specialise in curating contemporary art with a special focus on Art from indigenous communities. Grin's curatorial practice is centered around creating meaningful and engaging art experiences. Our team of experienced curators specializes in conceptualizing and organizing exhibitions that not only showcase the artistic talents of African artists but also tell compelling stories that engage and educate audiences. We focus on thematic exhibitions that explore contemporary issues, historical narratives, and cultural contexts, offering a platform for both established and emerging artists. Our curatorial expertise extends to selecting and arranging artworks, designing exhibition layouts, and providing insightful interpretive materials. We are dedicated to promoting diverse voices in the art world, with a special focus on underrepresented groups such as women, child prodigies, and indigenous artists, ensuring a rich and varied representation of African art and culture.

  • At Grin, we understand that branding is not just about creating a visual identity but about telling a story that resonates with the audience. Our branding expertise lies in crafting unique and compelling brand narratives that capture the essence of our clients, be it corporate bodies, individual artists, or cultural institutions. Our approach integrates innovative design, strategic thinking, and cultural understanding to develop brands that stand out in the competitive creative industry. We specialize in creating cohesive brand identities, including logos, color schemes, typography, and brand voice, ensuring consistency across various media platforms. Our branding services extend to developing comprehensive brand manuals and guidelines that help our clients maintain a consistent brand image in all their endeavors.


  • Multimedia Strategist

    Michael Nii Dodoo Darku is a product of the National Film and Television Institute with an educational background in Multimedia Production. Michael’s key skillset includes Web design, Graphic Design, Videography, Photography and 3D design. His training in multimedia practices and working experience has broadened his perception of art, design and the creative process. Michael’s endless passion to be a goal-driven creative has equipped him with various other skills and digital studio practices to produce effective multimedia projects. Through his creative productions, Michael has developed and demonstrated consistent design sense and aesthetics to meet the demands of his clients and target audience. He works as a multimedia strategist at Grin.


  • Editor-in-chief

    Mawuli Adzei is a scholar in English, Folklore and Cultural Studies. He has been teaching Creative Writing, Postcolonial Literature, Oral Literature, Popular Genres, African Poetry and other courses at the Department of English, University of Ghana, since 1999. He has published Taboo (novel, 2011), Testament of the Seasons (poetry, 2012), The Jewel of Kabibi (novel, 2013), The Witch of Lagbati (novel, 2014), Filaments (poetry, 2018), Guilty as Charged (short stories, 2018), Bakudi's Ghost (novel, 2019) and Zadokeli (poetry, 2021). He is the recipient of the Valco Trust Literary Award (1996), Atukwei Okai Poetry Prize (2018, 2019), Ama Ata Aidoo Short Story Prize (2019) and the Ayi Kwei Armah Novel Prize (2019).

GRIN TEAM

  • Founder

    Sela works as a senior art critic for Grin. Grin is a self-funded creative start-up he founded in 2012 as part of his initiative to preserve and promote African Art and Culture through art exhibitions, public lectures, cultural programs, children’s storybooks and academic publications.


  • Head of Cinematography

    Amenyo Awoonor is a product of the National Film and Television Institute. With a background in Design, Photography, Film and Documentary Production, Amenyo has rich experience in Multimedia Production. He has consulted for reputable organizations, institutions and corporate bodies. Through his professional expertise, Amenyo has firmly established his career trajectory in the field of Multimedia. He is well-trained in various aspects of multimedia content creation and equipped with all the technical expertise and skillset required to deliver high-quality productions. He works as a lead consultant for the cinematography unit at Grin.

CONTACT GRIN

If you have any questions or comments, please contact us via email or phone, or send us a message using the contact form.

Phone
+233242125591

Email
info@gringhana.com