Diaspora Programs

Connecting African Diaspora Communities Across the Globe

spanDNA Families by the Edward A. Ulzen Memorial Foundation

spanDNA Families is an initiative of the Edward A. Ulzen Memorial Foundation (EAUMF), dedicated to reconnecting families with African ancestry through DNA testing, genealogy, and storytelling. Anchored in Ghana and the Southern United States, two regions integral to the African diaspora’s history, this program builds bridges between communities worldwide.

spanDNA Families is an initiative founded by Adwoa Ulzen Setrakian, who began exploring genealogy as a teenager in 2000. Her personal journey inspired this initiative to uncover and share hidden histories, family stories, and cultural connections. Today, spanDNA Families invites individuals, families, and organizations to join a mission of reconnection, healing, and discovery.

CTA:

• Learn More About spanDNA Families. Start Your Journey Today.

Why Ghana and the Southern United States?

Ghana, geographically the closest country to the intersection of the Equator and Prime Meridian (Wikipedia), serves as a starting point for uncovering African heritage and connections. Meanwhile, the Southern United States is a vital center of the African diaspora’s legacy, representing resilience, cultural evolution, and family stories that span continents.

By focusing on these two regions, spanDNA Families provides pathways for meaningful dialogue, family reconnections, and cultural preservation.

CTA:

• Discover the Power of Connection. Explore More.

What We Offer

spanDNA Families invites members of the Global African Community to reconceptualize what we know about history and identity. This initiative uncovers truths often omitted from education or buried by historical erasure, inviting humility and openness in the learning process.

spanDNA Family Members (FMs), who have typically taken a DNA test or have relatives who have, play a critical role in connecting families across the diaspora. These efforts foster spiritual, emotional, and physical homecomings, allowing families to restore memory, recognize shared heritage, and strengthen ties across generations.

CTA:

• Ready to Join the spanDNA Family? Sign Up Here.

The Annual Transatlantic Genealogy Summit (2025)

Our flagship event unites genealogists, family researchers, health practitioners, educators, artists, and wellness experts to explore ancestral histories, discover connections, and honor shared legacies. The summit also emphasizes wellness and holistic healing, reflecting EAUMF’s commitment to global health initiatives.

CTA:

• Don’t Miss This Transformative Event. Register for the Summit Now.

• Sponsor the Summit and Make an Impact. Explore Sponsorship Opportunities.

How We Journey Together

• Restore memory: Rediscover ancestral stories through DNA and genealogy.

• Reclaim our narratives: Preserve and share family legacies.

• Strengthen community ties: Connect families in Ghana and the diaspora.

• Embrace wellness: Support emotional and physical healing.

• Reconceptualize knowledge: Uncover truths to reshape historical understanding.

• Explore history and culture: Deepen appreciation of our shared journey.

CTA:

• Start Your Journey Today. Join the spanDNA Family.

Support Our Mission

Are you ready to reconnect with your roots and support a future of learning, healing, and connection?

• Register for the Transatlantic Genealogy Summit: Sign Up Now.

• Become a Sponsor, Vendor, or Donor: Support spanDNA Families.