A Journey of Culture, Sisterhood, Service, &
Self-Discovery
DIPO: Girls' Rites of Passage in Ghana
DIPO is a traditional rite of passage practiced by the Krobo people of Ghana, marking an important transition in a young girl's life.
In April 2027, The Free Me Life invites girls ages 13–17 to Somanya, Ghana, for a culturally immersive journey rooted in sisterhood, service, self-discovery, and connection.
Through participation in cultural traditions, community experiences, and opportunities for reflection, the girls will discover more about themselves, one another, and a world beyond their everyday surroundings and experiences.
The Experience: What Awaits Our Girls
The DIPO journey offers girls an opportunity to experience Ghanaian culture through participation, connection, and discovery.
From traditional Krobo rites of passage to community service, shared experiences, and moments of personal reflection, each part of the journey invites the girls to explore something new.
These experiences are designed to encourage sisterhood, broaden perspectives, and give each girl opportunities to notice more about herself and the world around her.
The DIPO Rites of Passage
Tradition, Culture & Community
The DIPO Ceremony
Preparing for the DIPO Ceremony
The Experience: More Than A Ceremony
The DIPO Rites of Passage is more than a ceremony. It is an opportunity for girls to experience Ghanaian culture firsthand, build meaningful connections, and discover more about themselves through participation in a living tradition.
Throughout this journey, the girls will engage with community, explore new surroundings, and experience moments that invite curiosity, reflection, and personal discovery.
At The Free Me Life, we believe that every experience offers an opportunity to notice something about ourselves and the world around us. This journey creates space for each girl to do just that.
Meet the Team
Behind this journey is a team committed to creating meaningful experiences for young girls. Together, we bring education, cultural knowledge, community leadership, and a shared commitment to helping each participant discover more about herself and her connection to the world.
Nana Abena
Founder & Experience Architect | The Free Me Life
Nana Abena is an educator, world traveler, and founder of The Free Me Life, where she creates experiences that encourage people to discover more about themselves through living. With a passion for cultural exploration and human connection, she brings years of international travel and community-building experience to this journey. Her vision is to give young girls opportunities to experience the world, connect with their heritage, and discover more about who they are.
Carol Johnson - Williams
Program Coordinator
Carol Johnson-Williams is an experienced educator, former school principal, and community leader with a passion for supporting the growth and development of young people. Her background in education, leadership, and personal development brings valuable experience to the Ghana Girls' Rites of Passage journey. As Program Coordinator, Carol helps guide the participants' experience, encouraging reflection, cultural understanding, meaningful connections, and personal discovery throughout the program.
Nene Djaba Agblezee IV
Traditional Chief & Royal Host | Somanya
Plau Division Palace, Ghana
Nene Djaba Agblezee IV is the traditional Chief of the Plau Division in Somanya, Ghana, and serves as Royal Host for the Ghana Girls' Rites of Passage experience. Through his leadership and connection to the Krobo community, he helps create opportunities for participants to experience Ghanaian traditions, cultural heritage, and the significance of the DIPO rites of passage. His involvement provides an important connection between the visiting girls and the community that welcomes them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do girls apply?
Applications are by interest only and reviewed individually.
Who can participate?
African-American girls ages 13 to 17. Ten girls in our first cohort.
When and where?
April 2027 in Ghana, West Africa, with the DIPO Rites of Passage in Somanya, Krobo area.
Can parents or guardians join?
Parents and guardians are welcome to participate. Details discussed during the application process.
What is included?
Cultural immersion, sisterhood, community engagement, personal discovery, and participation in the DIPO Rites of Passage. Detailed itinerary and inclusions will be provided to selected families before registration.
What is the cost?
Proposed at $4,950 per girl. Final pricing and inclusions will be confirmed.
What makes this different?
The Free Me Life creates experiences that invite participants to notice themselves and how they experience life through culture, sisterhood, service, and tradition.
How can families learn more?
Join our virtual information session on November 12th, 2026.