About Us
AkomaAsa Arts is a multi-disciplinary arts and cultural education empowerment organisation that has been running for over 10 years. The Academy offers dance, music, drama and performance training through two arts educational programmes: African Diaspora Dance forms & Music and Performing Arts. These programmes are made accessible to children and young people (CYP) aged 6- 16+.
Founded by
Akosua Boakye BEM
Akosua Boakye is the founder and director of AkomaAsa Performing Arts Academy and a distinguished leader in the performing arts community. As a director, dance educator, and performing arts movement practitioner, Akosua has made significant contributions to arts education and cultural empowerment. She served as the Cub Academy Coordinator and Children's Casting Director for Disney's West End musical, The Lion King, in London and on the UK tour for over 8 years.
Akosua's work empowers children and young people through arts, culture, and heritage, helping them develop essential skills for dance and performing arts, build strong relationships and networks, and enhance their health and well-being. She has also built partnerships with various organisations to provide better access and valuable learning opportunities for dancers, thereby enhancing dance education accessibility.
In 2019, she co-founded the Thea Barnes Legacy Fund (TBLF), an independent fund supporting individuals in creative fields that reflect Thea's interests in arts and education.
Recognised for her leadership role and impact in the arts sector, Akosua was awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) from the New Year's Honours list. She has also received accolades such as the Association of Dance of the African Diaspora (ADAD) Trailblazer Fellowship and the One Dance UK Teaching Mentoring Programme.
Her pedagogical approaches also examine the influence of social and cultural factors on students' experiences in performing arts training, fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
Our Vision, Mission and Values
Our vision
To be a prominent cultural arts education institution specialising in Western and African dance forms, music, and performing arts training for children and young people (CYP) aged 6-16+.
Our core values
Anti-Racism
Community
Culture
Creativity
Partnership
Collaboration
Dedication
Discipline
Diversity and Inclusion
Education
Enjoyment and Fun
Empowerment
Family
Identity
Accessibility
Collaborative Working
We actively participate in the continuous process of teaching and learning about African, Caribbean, and Western social, cultural, and historical connections. Through collaborative working relationships, the organisation tailors its programs to cultivate creativity, confidence, and skills in the next generation of young creators.
Our Mission
Develop Diverse, Inclusive Programs. Establish a Strong Foundation: Create high-quality dance, music, performing arts, and cultural education programs. Nurture skilled and versatile performing artists through disciplined training.
Pathways and Progression Routes: Offer pathways into educational and professional realms, motivating and inspiring children and young people (CYP).
Build Partnerships: Collaborate with parents, individuals, and organisations to provide better access and valuable learning opportunities for dancers, enhancing dance education accessibility.
Empower Young Individuals: Provide practical, hands-on training and experience to equip young people with the skills needed to enter the workforce.
Promote Mental Well-being. Supportive and Safe Spaces: Increase mental well-being through arts and cultural learning programs. Create environments that foster cultural and social innovation, allowing CYP to thrive.
Inspire Change Through National and International Opportunities. Ensure access for marginalised groups. AkomaAsa Arts is dedicated to providing national and international opportunities that bring together children and young people (CYP) from diverse backgrounds. We ensure that, regardless of their circumstances or abilities, all young individuals gain firsthand access to arts and cultural education. By collaborating with parents, individuals, and organisations, we strive to inspire change and promote inclusivity through our ISCEE and other projects.
Multi-disciplinary Arts
AkomaAsa Arts is a multi-disciplinary arts education and cultural empowerment organisation. We deliver dance, music, drama and performance training for children and young people (CYP) aged 6- 16+.
The academy offers two arts educational programmes: African Diaspora Dance & Music and Performing Arts.
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