Ms. Emily S. Fertik is a distinguished American diplomat currently serving as the Acting Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) and Counselor for Public Diplomacy at the United States Embassy in Accra, Ghana. In this dual role, she provides strategic leadership in U.S.-Ghana relations and oversees the embassy’s public engagement initiatives, cultural diplomacy, and educational outreach efforts.
With a strong background in foreign service and public diplomacy, Ms. Fertik brings a wealth of experience in fostering media development, academic cooperation, and civic empowerment across West Africa. As Acting DCM, she serves as the second in command at the U.S. Mission in Ghana, playing a critical role in managing diplomatic operations and advancing bilateral relations.
A key area of Ms. Fertik’s expertise lies in media capacity building. She has led several initiatives aimed at training Ghanaian journalists in ethical photojournalism, fact-checking, and visual literacy. These efforts, often in partnership with local organizations such as the Dikan Center, seek to combat misinformation and support credible, peaceful election reporting in Ghana.
In the realm of educational diplomacy, Ms. Fertik has championed initiatives that connect Ghanaian students and institutions with opportunities in the United States. Under her leadership, the U.S. Embassy has facilitated university partnerships, hosted academic fairs, and enhanced access to scholarships through programs like EducationUSA. She has engaged with students and faculty at institutions such as the University of Ghana and KNUST, encouraging knowledge exchange and long-term collaboration.
Ms. Fertik is also a passionate advocate for gender equity and youth empowerment. As a keynote speaker at the launch of GirledUp Ghana, she inspired young women to pursue leadership in entrepreneurship and STEM. She regularly speaks at public forums, where she emphasizes the importance of inclusive leadership and the transformative power of youth engagement.
A compelling public speaker, Ms. Fertik has addressed high-profile platforms including the West Africa Media Excellence Conference and Awards (WAMECA), where she promoted “peace journalism” and the role of the press in democratic consolidation. She is also known for her strong engagement with the Ghanaian diaspora, urging students studying abroad to return and lead transformative change at home. “We want you, we love you,” she has told them. “Come back and lead your countries.”
Ms. Fertik’s leadership exemplifies a deep commitment to transparency, cross-cultural understanding, and the development of resilient democratic societies. Her work continues to build bridges between the United States and Ghana—through education, media, and civic dialogue.