In this perspective, Atlantic Fellow Susana Lay reflects on the transformative experiences and profound connections forged during GBHI Leadership Week in Accra, Ghana, where cultural immersion and collaborative learning shaped a deeper commitment to advancing brain health equity.
From left to right: Atlantic Fellows Muluken Yenesew, and Carolina Bidó gather in Accra, Ghana during GBHI Leadership Week. Photo courtesy of Kiggundu Rodney Erismas.
The capital city of Ghana, Accra, is blazing with sunlight in the early hours as members of the Atlantic Fellows for Equity in Brain Health 2024 cohort step out of the Kotoka International Airport. Suddenly, we're sucked into the heat of the tropics, with a view of busy streets crowded with girls balancing big bowls on their heads and little market stalls selling sliced half pineapples. The dynamic energy and tropical warmth set the stage for a journey of connection, insight, and collaboration—a journey dedicated to advancing brain health equity.
Immersed in Ghana’s Culture and History
Ghana, with its vibrant traditions and bustling life, is not just a backdrop—it’s an integral part of our learning. This leadership gathering is meant not only to encourage insights, discussions, and bonding, but also to provide a cultural immersion in this West African nation, from whose ports millions of Africans were forced to set off to North America, Latin America, and the Caribbean. But mostly to learn from and engage with a network of enthusiast academics, physicians, educators, and artists who are transforming the conditions of life in Ghana.
One of our first sessions is with Kobby Ankomah Graham, a writer, DJ, and sociomusicologist who exemplifies the power of African creativity. He introduces us to the Akans, who historically migrated from Ghana and now make up most of the Ivory Coast's population, as well as the Sunsum, the most active part of our soul. His session connects us to African musical heritage, introducing us to the talent of Alté artists and the latest Afro beat sensations—African brilliance that many of us are only now discovering.
During free time, we wander the streets, experiencing traffic, mothers in vibrant clothing with babies on their backs, and kids leading us to market stalls. Here, as an "Obruni"—or white person in Fante local language—I gain insights into the local rhythms of life. The idea of the Atlantic Fellows for Equity in Brain Health program, which invests resources, time, and energy in bringing us all to another continent, is to inspire genuine connection with its people, and this is how it happens.
Left: Leadership Week participants explore the Agape Academy in Accra, Ghana, engaging with its initiatives; Right: Participants visit the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, learning about Ghana's rich history. Photos courtesy of Selorm Attikpo.
Reflections on Equity and Resilience
Our visit to Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital is among the most impactful parts of our journey. Guided by David Brodie-Mends, a neurologist and Atlantic Fellow who works at the hospital, we meet his medical colleagues who share their perspectives on Ghana’s healthcare challenges, especially in dementia care. Walking through the hospital's corridors, we learn how resource limitations and cultural beliefs shape brain health care, and a panel discussion highlights topics from community outreach to the role of traditional healers. Professor Albert Kwaku Akpalu, president of the Neurology Society of Ghana, emphasizes "the importance of bringing ourselves to the levels of the communities"—a principle that resonates with our mission as fellows.
The next day, we travel to Cape Coast Castle. The three-hour drive reveals patches of lush greenery and bustling markets. As we approach the imposing fortress, originally constructed in the 1650s, we sense the weight of history. Standing in the dark, airless dungeons, we listen as our guide recounts the brutal experience of captive Africans. This powerful visit compels us to reflect on our own understandings of history and equity in today’s world.
The idea of the Atlantic Fellows for Equity in Brain Health program, which invests resources, time, and energy in bringing us all to another continent, is to inspire genuine connection with its people, and this is how it happens.
—Susana Lay, Atlantic Fellow for Equity in Brain Health
Later in the week, we visit the Agape Academy, a school providing quality education to children from vulnerable backgrounds. Led by the director, we wander through the school's hallways, meeting remarkable young people like a student who came to Agape when he was two years old and is now seventeen and preparing to go to law school. Our time here culminates in a mural project with local artists and students, creating art that promotes awareness about healthy aging. As we finish, the phrase "Brain health matters" shines under a ray of sunlight—a simple message capturing the spirit of our journey.
As we prepare to return home, we carry with us the understanding that advancing brain health equity begins with mutual respect and shared understanding and continues with collective action. The connections made and insights gained during Leadership Week have reaffirmed that our shared goal demands not only knowledge, but empathy, sustained collaboration, and a willingness to learn across cultures. The mission calls for both local partnerships and global resolve—a mission that, as fellows, we are more committed to than ever.
Participants gather in front of a community mural—co-designed by Atlantic Fellow Kiggundu Rodney Erismas and local artist Kingsley Deffor—at the Agape Academy in Accra, Ghana. Photo by Selorm Attikpo.
Authors
Susana Lay, BA
Writer, Researcher
