Los Angeles, CA (BlackNews.com) — The next time you see actress LisaRaye McCoy, you might want to put some respect on her new name: Queen Nana Ohema Ama Nyarko I. On Sunday, September 22, 2019, she was enstooled as Queen Mother of Agona Kwanyako of Ghana’s central region. The regal ceremony was held at the Cicada Club in Los Angeles, CA.

Enstoolment, or installation, is one of the last great African tribal traditions. The Ashanti people of Ghana started it in the 17th century. In January 2019, American actor Michael Jai White was enstooled as Nana Akoto III, Odopon, a king of Akwamu in Ghana, and his wife Gillian White were crowned an Ohemaa Queen Mother. McCoy is in good company with other Americans who’ve walked this path before her.

Queen Mothers are leaders and women of power in Africa. They play vital roles in local government. The position comes with a lot of social power and influence. The former first lady of Turks and Caicos, McCoy was carefully selected by King Yahweh, the Paramount Chief of Agona Kwanyako, the first in Ghana’s history to be enstooled in two different villages. The selection committee also included the chiefs and the entire Kyidom Traditional Divisional Councils. Because of her humanitarian efforts and leadership positions she has used to help build strong communities, she was chosen.

The black-tie gala began with a red carpet media blitz followed by dinner and music.

McCoy arrived at the Downtown LA venue in royal style, riding in a stunning white Rolls Royce, wearing a trademark white floor-length dress with a black belt and shimmering gold Cleopatra- like African bangles. She posed for pictures with dignitaries, friends, and family that included her daughter Kai, and her grandchild.