GADAT Next-Generation Spreads Holiday Cheer Through Charity Work
This holiday season, the newly formed Ga Dangme Association of Toronto’s Next-Generation branch (GADAT Next-Gen) took a remarkable step toward helping those less fortunate. Led b
Introduction of Ga-Adangbe Association of Toronto
Welcome to the Ga-Adangbe Association of Toronto (GADAT), a vibrant and dedicated community organization that has been at the heart of preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Ga-Adangbe people in the Greater Toronto Area since its re-establishment in 1998.
At GADAT, our mission is to unite heritage and foster futures. We strive to bridge the gap between tradition and progress, ensuring the preservation of our unique cultural heritage while adapting to the diverse Canadian multicultural landscape. Through empowerment and education, we aim to create a community where every voice is heard and valued.
Ga: “Ekome Feemɔ Mli Hewalɛ Yɔɔ”
Adangbe: “Kake Peemi Mli, Hewawɛɛ ŋɛɛ”
English: “There Is Strength In Unity”
We strive to bridge the gap between tradition and progress, ensuring the preservation of our rich cultural heritage while adapting to the diverse Canadian multicultural landscape. Our mission is to empower and educate, creating a community where every voice is heard and valued.
We envision a future where the GaDangbe culture is not only preserved but also thrives within the broader Canadian society. Our goal is to build a community that celebrates cultural traditions, promotes educational and health initiatives, and fosters a sense of belonging for all members.
At the heart of GADAT are our core values: integrity, respect, collaboration, compassion, empathy, inclusivity, and innovation. These values guide our actions and decisions, ensuring we remain true to our purpose and committed to the well-being of our community.
A Brief History of the Ga Adangbe People
The Ga-Adangbe people, originating from the Greater Accra region of Ghana, have a storied past that traces back to ancient Israel. Their journey through Egypt, Nigeria, Togo, and Benin, before settling in Ghana, is a testament to their resilience and adaptability. Known for their rich cultural heritage, the Ga-Adangbe people have contributed significantly to various fields and have been instrumental in the founding of modern Ghana.
Established in the late 1980’s and re-established in 1998, GADAT has a rich history of community building and cultural preservation. The association was revitalized by visionary Ga-Adangbe individuals, led by Mr. Enoch Oblitey and Mrs. Hagar Oblitey, who recognized the need to unite and educate the Ga-Adangbe community in Toronto.
The Chieftaincy Clan, including notable figures like Nii Kwei Aku V and Naa Akuyea Afriyea Sika I, plays a crucial role in maintaining our cultural traditions and providing leadership within the community.
Nii Kwei Aku V
Our executive team is a diverse group of individuals committed to the growth and success of our community.
Ga Mantse of Toronto & Sowotumu Mantse of Accra: Nii Kwashie Kwei Nsro I
Our executive team is a diverse group of individuals committed to the growth and success of our community.
Ga Mantse of Toronto & Weija Mantse of Accra: NII Otokunor Banfro II
Our executive team is a diverse group of individuals committed to the growth and success of our community.
Naa Akuyea Afriyea Sika I
Our executive team is a diverse group of individuals committed to the growth and success of our community.
Sub Ga Manye of Toronto: Naa Merley Abuatu I
Our executive team is a diverse group of individuals committed to the growth and success of our community.
Asafoaste Abuoaboni I
Our executive team is a diverse group of individuals committed to the growth and success of our community.
Sub Ga Manye of Toronto: Manye Kai Mansa Dadekotopon
Our executive team is a diverse group of individuals committed to the growth and success of our community.
Manklalo: Nii Okugya
Our executive team is a diverse group of individuals committed to the growth and success of our community.
Dzaasetse: Nii Ogbame I
Our executive team is a diverse group of individuals committed to the growth and success of our community.
Asafoatse: Nii Okaitei I
Our executive team is a diverse group of individuals committed to the growth and success of our community.
High Chief Priest: Nii Nai Wulomo
Nii Nai Wulomo (High Priest): Nii Akrong Belemifo
Manklalo: Nii Okugya
Our executive team is a diverse group of individuals committed to the growth and success of our community.
Ga-Adangbe Association of Toronto Executive Team
GADAT is led by a team of dedicated volunteers and passionate leaders, each bringing unique skills and perspectives. Our executives, including President Mrs. Christiana Nuamah and Vice-President Mr. John Ahoni, work tirelessly to uphold our mission and vision.Our executive team is a diverse group of individuals committed to the growth and success of our community. They are responsible for steering the association towards achieving its goals and objectives.
President
Our executive team is a diverse group of individuals committed to the growth and success of our community.
Vice-President
Our executive team is a diverse group of individuals committed to the growth and success of our community.
Secretary
Our executive team is a diverse group of individuals committed to the growth and success of our community.
Assistant Secretary
Our executive team is a diverse group of individuals committed to the growth and success of our community.
Treasurer
Our executive team is a diverse group of individuals committed to the growth and success of our community.
Financial Secretary
Our executive team is a diverse group of individuals committed to the growth and success of our community.
Public Relations Officer (PRO)
Our executive team is a diverse group of individuals committed to the growth and success of our community.
Organizing Secretary
Our executive team is a diverse group of individuals committed to the growth and success of our community.
We have actively engaged in various philanthropic activities, providing support and aid to those in need within our community and beyond.
We offer scholarships to deserving students, fostering educational advancement and supporting the next generation in their academic pursuits.
Our organization is deeply involved in community engagement activities, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration among our members.
We have partnered with various organizations to support and uplift communities within Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area.
Our membership has grown significantly, reflecting the increasing interest and involvement of the GaDangbe people in our cultural and social initiatives.
We have been active in health support and awareness campaigns, including community participation in COVID-19 testing and support.
Our members have participated in community cleaning initiatives, contributing to the beautification and upkeep of our local environment.
Our Homowo Festival is a highlight of our cultural calendar, celebrating our heritage and bringing together members of the community in a vibrant and meaningful way.
The aims and objectives of the Association are as follows:
Announcements
Monthly: 3rd Sunday of each month (No meetings in August & December) Time: 3:00pm - 5:00pm Venue: Driftwood Community Centre, 4401 Jane Street, North York, Ontario
Joining the Ga-Adangbe Association of Toronto (GADAT) as a member is a meaningful way to connect with our community, actively participate in cultural initiatives, and contribute to the collective growth of the Ga-Adangbe people in the Greater Toronto Area. At GADAT, our mission is to unite heritage and foster futures. We strive to bridge the gap between tradition and progress, ensuring the preservation of our unique cultural heritage while adapting to the diverse Canadian multicultural landscape. Through empowerment and education, we aim to create a community where every voice is heard and valued.
Organization set up to provide help and raise money for those in need
This holiday season, the newly formed Ga Dangme Association of Toronto’s Next-Generation branch (GADAT Next-Gen) took a remarkable step toward helping those less fortunate. Led b
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Nii Kwei Aku V
Ga Mantse of Toronto & Sowotumu Mantse: Nii Kwashie Kwei Nsro I
Ga Mantse of Toronto & Weija Mantse: NII Otokunor Banfro II
Evelyn Neequaye, Ga-Dangbe Manye of Toronto, descends from the esteemed Atupai clan and the Addy-Kwabena family of Accra. Since GADAT's revival in 1989, she has served as a Queen Mother, embodying dedication, respect, and commitment. Her contributions were instrumental in forming Ga-Adangbe International (GDI), where she continues to influence as a member of Ga-Adangbe of North America.
Sub Ga Manye of Toronto: Naa Merley Abuatu I
Nii Odoi Yemoh, from La, Accra, is the Executive Director of Reality Capital Management and a Mathematics and finance professor at Humber College. Serving as an External Advisor at Black Advisory Hub and on the Economic Advisory Board of the Mayor of Brampton, Nii's expertise and leadership extend beyond academia into significant community and economic development roles.
Sub Ga Manye of Toronto: Manye Kai Mansa Dadekotopon
Manklalo: Nii Okugya
A founding member of GADAT, Samuel Papanii Glover has been an active and dedicated member since March 1, 1998. Serving on the board of Directors, he has significantly contributed to GADAT's growth. As the head of the Homowo Committee, Samuel has led numerous successful celebrations, enriching the community's cultural heritage.
Dzaasetse: Nii Ogbame I
Enoch Oblitey, a founding member, played a pivotal role in reviving GADAT in 1998 and establishing GDI in Toronto. His suggestion for the name "GDI" was unanimously accepted. Enoch's dedication is evident in his perfect attendance at annual GDI conferences and GADAT functions, serving as a kind and generous advisor.
Asafoatse: Nii Okaitei I
Sub Ga Manye of Toronto: Manye Kai Mansa Dadekotopon
Dr. Isaac Nii Akrong, a distinguished professor at York University and a beacon of African culture in Toronto, hails from LA, Accra. As a founding member of the Ga-Adangbe Association of Toronto (GADAT), he has significantly contributed to the community through the scholarship committee and cultural performances. His leadership in The African Dance Ensemble since 2001 has been pivotal in promoting African arts. Dr. Akrong's philosophy, "We deem it human to share what Africa has to offer – a smile on your face and goodness in your hearts," reflects his dedication to cultural sharing and community service.
Hailing from Ada and arriving in Canada in the 1980s, Mrs. Christiana Nuamah has carved an illustrious career in Canadian banking, ascending to a prominent management role through sheer dedication and excellence. Beyond her professional achievements, she is a revered community leader passionately dedicated to preserving Ga-Adangbe and Ghanaian culture. As President of the Ga-Adangbe Association of Toronto and Chairperson for the Council of Representatives of Ga-Adangbe International in North America, her efforts in cultural preservation, community service, and mentorship have been pivotal. Serving on the City of Brampton Heritage Board and as a board member of Ghanaian News Toronto, her leadership extends to being an assistant leader of the GCAO Senior's Wing. Her advocacy for cultural preservation and community unity has earned her numerous accolades, reflecting her role as a cultural ambassador and a beacon of inspiration, especially for the youth. A loving mother and grandmother, her legacy is a testament to the power of determination and service.
Patricia Osekre, originating from LA, Accra, is a cornerstone of the Ga-Adangbe Association of Toronto (GADAT) through her exceptional executive administrative leadership. Her tireless support and ability to navigate GADAT's challenging administrative tasks have made her an inspirational figure within the association. Recognized with multiple presidential awards, her dedication and contributions have significantly propelled GADAT's progress. Despite her notable public service role in Canada, specifics remain undisclosed due to policy constraints, underscoring her commitment to professional and community engagements.
Patricia Osekre, originating from LA, Accra, is a cornerstone of the Ga-Adangbe Association of Toronto (GADAT) through her exceptional executive administrative leadership. Her tireless support and ability to navigate GADAT's challenging administrative tasks have made her an inspirational figure within the association. Recognized with multiple presidential awards, her dedication and contributions have significantly propelled GADAT's progress. Despite her notable public service role in Canada, specifics remain undisclosed due to policy constraints, underscoring her commitment to professional and community engagements.
Boss Osekre, with roots in Teshie and born in La, Accra, has been a steadfast GADAT treasurer since 2008. His dedication was honoured in 2015 with the President's Choice Award by the Mayor of Brampton, Linda Jeffery, acknowledging his loyal service. His exceptional work performance has been recognized with two Best Employee awards, highlighting his invaluable contributions to GADAT's success.
Nii Odoi Yemoh, from La, Accra, is the Executive Director of Reality Capital Management and a Mathematics and finance professor at Humber College. As an External Advisor at Black Advisory Hub and on the Economic Advisory Board of the Mayor of Brampton, Nii's expertise and leadership extend beyond academia into significant community and economic development roles.
