About AkomaAsa
Building creative futures through arts, culture and opportunity.
AkomaAsa Arts is a multidisciplinary arts and culture organisation where children and young people explore, develop and express themselves through dance, music, drama and performance.
For over a decade, we have created opportunities for young people to develop their creative skills, confidence and understanding of culture and heritage, while building pathways towards further education and careers in the creative industries.
Our work brings together high-quality artistic training, cultural education and practical experience, creating an environment where young people can discover their potential, build lasting skills and grow as confident, creative individuals.
From first steps to future possibilities, AkomaAsa is about giving young people the space, support and opportunities to thrive.
What we offer:
From specialist arts training to career pathways and international opportunities, AkomaAsa creates spaces for young people to learn, perform, connect and grow.
DANCE & MUSIC
Specialist training in African Diaspora dance, music, drumming and cultural practice, developing skilled and confident young artists with a strong connection to heritage.
African Diaspora Dance & Music
CAREER & EMPLOYMENT
Practical training and work experience designed to bridge the gap between arts education and the creative industries.
Skills Beyond the Studio
PERFORMING ARTS
Develop skills in acting, singing, vocal technique, musical theatre, improvisation and performance through professional-standard training.
Drama, Musical Theatre & Performance
INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE
International cultural exchanges give young people opportunities to travel, collaborate, experience new cultures and build global creative connections.
Arts Without Borders
YOUTH PERFORMANCE COMPANY
A dedicated performance company giving young artists the opportunity to develop their craft, gain performance experience and work towards professional pathways.
Train. Perform. Progress.
CULTURAL EDUCATION
We use arts and culture to help young people understand their heritage, develop confidence and build a stronger sense of identity and community.
Identity. Heritage. Belonging.
AkomaAsa is building futures, nurturing identity, and creating the next generation of skilled, confident artists.
From first steps to future possibilities, we create the space, support and opportunities for young people to thrive.
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.
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
Cultural Duality & Heritage Pride
Holistic Development
Innovation & Transformation
Excellence Without Compromise
Inclusion & Belonging
Responsiveness & Partnership
Empowerment Through Education
Community & Connection
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.
