Abena Christine Jon'el: Redefining Disability and Identity Through Fashion

Sun Feb 01 2026 12:55:05 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Abena Christine Jon'el, a Ghanaian-American model, challenges perceptions of disability and beauty with her kente-cloth prosthetic leg, making a powerful impact on representation in Ghana.

Abena Christine Jon'el, a model who lost her leg to cancer at a young age, now embraces her identity in Ghana through fashion and disability advocacy. At a recent fashion show, she showcased her kente-wrapped prosthetic leg, symbolizing her love for the country and the importance of visibility for people with disabilities. Abena's journey from cancer survivor to a prominent figure in the fashion industry highlights the need for greater representation and challenges stereotypes about disabled individuals.

It was hard to miss 33-year-old model and writer Abena Christine Jon'el's appearance at a recent major fashion show in Ghana. Walking the runway with her prosthetic leg wrapped in a colourful African print, her presence made a significant impact.

The Ghanaian-American aimed to elevate the visibility of people with disabilities, building on her years of advocacy in the US and Ghana. At just two years old, Abena faced an aggressive form of cancer, leading to the amputation of her leg. Today, she embraces this choice as a pivotal moment in her life.

After growing up in Chicago, Abena felt a profound connection to Africa, which intensified after her first visit to Ghana in 2021. She moved there permanently, now considering herself Ghanaian by ancestry and adoption. Her kente-wrapped prosthetic has become a symbol of her identity and love for the country.

Abena highlights the differences in how disabled individuals are perceived and treated between the US and Ghana, advocating for greater representation and positive visibility. At the 15th edition of Rhythms on the Runway, she took a significant step towards inclusivity, presenting her story not just as one of survival, but of reclamation.

Through her advocacy and style, Abena seeks to alter the narrative around disability, urging society to recognize the abilities and beauty of disabled individuals. 'Ghana is my home,' she declares, as she continues to shine a light on the intersection of disability, identity, and culture.