Family Legacies Reclaimed: "Building Family Ties Through Genetic Genealogy"

The webinar Family Legacies Reclaimed: Building Family Ties Through Genetic Genealogy, presented by professional genealogist Adwoa Ulzen-Setrakian, explores the transformative role of genetic testing in reconnecting African-descended families across continents. Framed within the broader context of the African Diaspora and historical displacement, Ulzen-Setrakian combines personal experience, case studies, and community-driven research to show how DNA can serve as a powerful tool for healing, identity formation, and historical reclamation. Drawing from her own Ghanaian-Canadian heritage and the work of spanDNA, she shares a deeply human, multi-generational journey that illustrates how science and storytelling merge to rewrite the narrative of African ancestry.

Key Insights from the Webinar:

• Genetic Genealogy as a Bridge Across Time and Trauma
  Ulzen-Setrakian emphasizes how DNA testing can fill the gaps left by colonial erasure, slavery, and migration, especially when traditional records fall short. Through projects like the Transatlantic Genealogy Summit, descendants from Ghana, the Americas, and beyond are uncovering familial ties once severed by historical trauma.

• The Power of Community-Driven Research
  The webinar showcases how Ulzen-Setrakian’s approach goes beyond the individual to foster collective discovery. Through collaboration with family members, DNA matches, and fellow genealogists, she creates safe, supportive environments where shared history can be explored with empathy, especially when confronting sensitive or unexpected findings.

• Centering the Matriarchal Narrative
  One of the most compelling themes is Ulzen-Setrakian’s call to honor often-overlooked female ancestors. She challenges the traditional, patriarchal lens of genealogy by advocating for mitochondrial DNA testing and storytelling that acknowledges the resilience and agency of African women across generations.

This insightful presentation is a must-watch for anyone seeking to deepen their genealogical practice through inclusive, ethical, and emotionally intelligent methods. Ulzen-Setrakian’s work not only redefines how we trace our roots but also models how to build meaningful connections across cultural and national boundaries.

Explore the full webinar to witness how real families have rediscovered lost kinship, reclaimed narratives, and built bridges across the Atlantic. For genealogists at any stage, the accompanying syllabus offers additional resources, tools, and frameworks to begin or enhance your own research journey. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a leader at the forefront of global, community-centered genealogy.