The Founder
Augustina “MS.ABA” Austin
Photography: © BlackImagegh
Augustina Austin, known culturally as MS.ABA, is the founder, a dynamic multimedia personality, communications adviser, and cultural entrepreneur. With a diverse career spanning media, music, and strategic communications, she is committed to building platforms that amplify African and Diaspora voices.
Augustina is the founder of BYAustin, a communications agency dedicated to helping brands, from start-ups to governments, build visibility and meaningful impact in international and African Diaspora markets. She also co-founded De Knit, a production company that creates shows centering Black voices in the Netherlands.
She currently leads two talk shows: Women About Business and How We Are Making It (formerly Africa on Focus), where she highlights stories of leadership, innovation, and resilience among Africans and Diaspora professionals.
Augustina is also a communications adviser to institutions and governments, specializing in strategic storytelling, branding, and community outreach. She is frequently sought after to moderate panels, host events, and advise on platforms that spotlight African business, cultural diplomacy, and Diaspora engagement.
As a board member of Epitome Entertainment, she helps lead talent development for New Skool Rules , the largest MOBO (Music of Black Origin) industry festival outside the U.S.
Connecting Africa and the Diaspora
Since 2010, Augustina has passionately worked to connect young African Diaspora professionals with the African continent. Her journey began in 2009 when she was crowned Face of Ghana Netherlands, representing the Dutch-Ghanaian community and leading charitable efforts for organizations in Ghana.
She served for over seven years as a board member and communications executive for Young Ghanaian Professionals Benelux, advocating for career growth and professional networks.
Her mission is to foster Diaspora-led development by linking professionals and entrepreneurs to opportunities in Ghana — including return migration, investment, tourism, knowledge transfer, and philanthropy. Through initiatives like SHERO Collective, Women About Business, and Africa on Focus, she continues to build communities that drive transformation.
Media and Public Engagement
As a presenter and interviewer, MS.ABA has engaged with high-profile leaders and changemakers, including:
- Bozoma Saint John (Netflix)
- Rehmah Kasule
- H.E. Ameenah Gurib-Fakim (former President of Mauritius)
- Lucy Quist
- H.E. John Kumah
- H.E. Gifty Ohene-Konadu
She has also shared stages or interviews with music and entertainment personalities such as Sauti Sol, Wiyaala, Dobet Gnahoré, and Eddie Kadi.
As a speaker, she has been featured at events like Africa Talks, Village Diaries Amsterdam, and the Purpose Woman Seminar, where her voice resonates across themes of empowerment, entrepreneurship, cultural identity, and innovation.
Artist and Educator
Beyond media, MS.ABA is a recording artist with a passion for Afro-soul and spoken word. Her debut EP Rooted was released in October 2020, with a follow-up project set for release in 2025. She performs regularly in Ghana and the Netherlands.
Augustina also provides training in media pitching, presentation, and content strategy, helping entrepreneurs and creatives communicate their value with clarity and confidence.
Recognition
- Best Radio Presenter of the Year, Afro-Diaspora Influential Awards (2019, Sweden)
- Outstanding Vision and Service Award, Tema Citizens Club NL (2018)
Get in touch
Do you want Augustina to speak or moderate at your event?
Do you need help with your brand, projects or business idea? Get in touch with Augustina for advice in a free 15-min call.
