Rhythms of Opportunity

Transforming Lives Through Ghana’s Drumming Heritage

The Drumming Up From Poverty Foundation stands at the intersection of cultural preservation and sustainable development, harnessing the power of traditional Ghanaian drumming arts to create meaningful change in communities facing economic hardship. Since 2007, we have transformed the lives of hundreds of youth through comprehensive training in drum craftsmanship, performance arts, and entrepreneurial skills.

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Our Story

Founded by master drummer Michael Kweku Owusu, our foundation emerged from personal experience. Growing up in Accra’s vibrant but challenging Arts Centre, Kweku witnessed how traditional arts could provide both cultural identity and economic opportunity. What began as informal mentoring to 25 children has evolved into a registered NGO with international recognition and partnerships.

Our vission

Our vision extends beyond teaching drumming—we aim to preserve Ghana’s rich cultural heritage while building sustainable pathways out of poverty. Through our integrated approach, participants develop:

in authentic drum-making techniques passed down through generations. Students learn precise wood selection, carving methods, and skin preparation techniques that honor ancestral practices while meeting contemporary quality standards. Our master craftsmen guide learners through every aspect of the intricate creation process.

in traditional rhythms from diverse Ghanaian ethnic traditions. Participants master not only the technical execution of complex polyrhythms but also develop a deep understanding of each pattern’s cultural significance, historical context, and proper ceremonial application. This preservation of knowledge ensures these traditions continue for future generations.

to transform artistic abilities into sustainable livelihoods. We equip participants with practical entrepreneurial skills including pricing strategies, export logistics, digital marketing, and customer relationship management. This business foundation enables graduates to successfully navigate both local markets and international opportunities in the global arts economy.

including confidence, discipline, and community leadership. Through our structured mentorship approach, students develop core life skills that extend far beyond artistic practice—from effective communication and time management to ethical leadership and cultural ambassadorship. Many graduates report these personal growth aspects as the most transformative elements of their experience.

The Senya Beraku Cultural Arts Center

The crown jewel of our initiatives is the developing Senya Beraku Cultural Arts Center, located on an acre of coastal land 50km west of Accra. This purpose-built facility represents the evolution of our mission—creating a dedicated space that serves multiple purposes:

Training Hub

Purpose-built workshops for intensive drum-making instruction

Cultural Preservation

Spaces dedicated to documenting and teaching traditional rhythms

Community Resource

Educational facilities serving local youth and community members

Sustainable Model

Agricultural components including mango orchards providing supplementary income

International Exchange

Accommodations and performance spaces for cultural immersion programs

Impact Through Numbers and Stories

Our impact extends beyond statistics, though the numbers tell part of our story:

youth directly trained in professional drum-making since inception

of advanced students now earning sustainable income from their craft

program retention rate among enrolled participants

of graduates now serving as mentors to new students

Comprehensive Programming

Our holistic approach encompasses three integrated program streams:

1. Master Craftsman Initiative

Our flagship training program teaches authentic Ghanaian drum creation through structured apprentice-to-master progression. Students learn:

  • Djembe drums with their distinctive goblet shape and penetrating sound
  • Talking drums (Dondo) that mimic the tonal qualities of spoken language
  • Kpanlogo drums central to Ga cultural celebrations
  • Fontomfrom ceremonial drums played at royal gatherings

2. Cultural Performance Arts

Beyond instrument creation, we nurture performance abilities through:

  • Instruction in regional drumming patterns and ensemble techniques
  • Traditional dance forms aligned with specific rhythmic traditions
  • Vocal training in folk songs that accompany drumming ceremonies
  • Understanding the cultural context and significance of different rhythms

3. Community Development

We extend our impact through:

  • School outreach programs introducing cultural arts to younger children
  • Mentorship pairing established craftspeople with new learners
  • Entrepreneurship training in pricing, marketing, and business management
  • Agricultural initiatives teaching sustainable farming alongside artistic skills

Partnership Opportunities

We thrive through meaningful partnerships with individuals and organizations who share our vision. Ways to engage include:

  • Authentic Instrument Purchase: Acquire hand-crafted drums created by our artisans, with proceeds directly supporting our programs
  • Cultural Immersion Experiences: Join curated workshops and tours experiencing Ghana’s rich traditions firsthand
  • Skills-Based Volunteering: Contribute expertise in areas like construction, education, business development, or marketing
  • Sponsorship Programs: Support a student’s complete journey through our training programs
  • Infrastructure Development: Contribute to specific capital projects at our Senya Beraku facility

Looking Forward: 2025 Initiatives

As we continue growing, our strategic priorities include:

  • Completing the main instruction facility at Senya Beraku
  • Launching our digital documentation project preserving traditional rhythms
  • Establishing formal exchange partnerships with international music education programs
  • Expanding our agricultural initiatives to enhance sustainability
    Developing advanced business training for graduate artisans
learn more about our initiatives