Azoumaro Vanessa Salese, also known as Vanessa Selase Azoumaro, is a Ghanaian gamer and university student who achieved international recognition after setting a Guinness World Record for the Longest Video Game Marathon Playing Games in the Ghost of Tsushima Series.
According to GhanaRegions.com, her remarkable gaming endurance and determination made her a symbol of resilience, focus, and representation for African women in gaming.
Early Life and Education
Vanessa Salese was born and raised in Ghana. Although limited public information exists about her early years and family background, she is best known as a student at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi. At the time of her record attempt, she was pursuing a degree in Social Work. Her academic journey and campus involvement reflect a blend of creativity, social consciousness, and a strong drive to challenge boundaries beyond the classroom.
Interest in Gaming
Vanessa developed a keen interest in video games from a young age, inspired by the immersive storytelling and skill-based challenges they present. Over time, gaming became both a hobby and a personal passion — one that led her to explore endurance gaming and the world of Guinness World Record challenges.
Her love for Ghost of Tsushima, a game celebrated for its artistry, narrative depth, and emotional resonance, became the foundation of her record-breaking attempt. She has stated that gaming allows her to express discipline, focus, and mental endurance — traits that ultimately contributed to her achievement.
The Record Attempt
In July 2024, Vanessa organized and executed her Guinness World Record attempt at the Republic Hall Common Area of KNUST. The event attracted attention from students, faculty members, and supporters across the university community.
- Start Date: 26 July 2024
- Location: Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana
- Game Played: Ghost of Tsushima series
- Objective: To break the record for the longest video game marathon in the series
Vanessa played continuously for 56 hours, 30 minutes, and 43 seconds, surpassing her initial 48-hour target and breaking the previous benchmark. The attempt was conducted under official monitoring conditions required by Guinness World Records, including time tracking, witness verification, and rest breaks as per the organization’s strict rules.
Official Guinness World Record Confirmation
After submitting the official evidence package, Guinness World Records verified and confirmed her as the record holder for the Longest Video Game Marathon Playing Games in the Ghost of Tsushima Series.
This achievement not only placed her name in the global Guinness database but also marked her as the first Ghanaian and the first African woman to hold a gaming-related Guinness World Record in this category. The confirmation was celebrated widely across Ghanaian media and social networks, with messages of pride and admiration from gaming enthusiasts, students, and women’s empowerment groups.
Impact and Recognition
Vanessa’s success became a source of inspiration for young Africans, particularly women who aspire to break barriers in male-dominated spaces such as gaming, esports, and technology. Her determination and discipline have been highlighted as examples of what focus and persistence can achieve, even in unconventional fields.
Following the announcement, she received recognition from university bodies, student organizations, and the Ghanaian gaming community. The record has been praised as a symbol of the growing influence of African youth in digital culture and competitive gaming.
Legacy and Future Goals
Beyond her world record, Vanessa continues to advocate for greater inclusion and recognition of African gamers, especially women. She aims to use her platform to encourage young people to pursue their passions — whether in gaming, academia, or other creative industries.
Her story underscores the importance of perseverance, preparation, and a belief that extraordinary accomplishments are within reach for anyone willing to dedicate themselves to their craft.
Azoumaro Vanessa Salese Details
- Full Name: Azoumaro Vanessa Salese (also known as Vanessa Selase Azoumaro)
- Nationality: Ghanaian
- Education: Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) — Social Work
- Record: Longest Video Game Marathon Playing Games in the Ghost of Tsushima Series
- Duration: 56 hours, 30 minutes, 43 seconds
- Date: 26–28 July 2024
- Recognition: First Ghanaian and African woman to hold this gaming-related Guinness World Record
