How traditional djembe drumming can help heal trauma | Francis Agyakwa | TEDxMileHigh

Growing up in Ghana, Francis Agyakwa witnessed the power of communal drumming rituals firsthand. Now, as a social work researcher, he’s investigating how this traditional practice can help people heal from trauma. In this eye-opening talk, Agyakwa explains how drumming can promote increased resilience, energy, creativity, and connection – and why Western scientists should investigate indigenous practices. Francis Agyakwa is a first-generation Ghanaian immigrant, the father of two amazing boys, and an Adjunct Professor at the University of Denver, Graduate School of Social Work. As a Trauma-Informed Specialist and certified Compassion Fatigue Trainer, he’s held various positions in child welfare, including nine years at the Denver Department of Human Services. His research-based therapeutic program, “Drumming Out Stress,” is deeply rooted in the traditional Ghanaian belief system. He is joined on stage by Aimee Alcorn, Bethany Kammerer, Dawn Crosswhite, Marco DiFerreira, and Marnesia Bryant. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at