Ackermann-Froebel Enrichment Program
(AFEP)
Harnessing ancient wisdom to meet contemporary and emergent societal, cultural and technological challenges
The Ackermann-Froebel Enrichment Program (AFEP) is a non-clinical, research-driven enrichment initiative that develops resilience, critical thinking, emotional and social intelligence, and purpose-driven leadership with immersive, engaging and dynamic project-driven programs for children, youth, women and seniors.
Grounded in timeless philosophical traditions and enriched by Japanese cultural projects, AFEP equips individuals of all ages with the skills needed to navigate contemporary and emergent societal, cultural and technological challenges with clarity and confidence.
Through hands-on innovative individual and collaborative projects, participants learn to think critically, regulate emotions, communicate effectively, set boundaries, and lead with integrity.
AFEP is a journey of becoming—supporting participants to stand rooted, self-aware, and purposeful in a rapidly evolving world.
What Makes AFEP Unique
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The conviction that every human being is born with enormous potential but at risk by uncontrolled technological advances, chaos through societal influences and peer pressures.
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The program is robust, engaging and research driven. The longitudinal nature of the program ensures that learning is transformative.
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Multi-pronged approach through ancient and contemporary techniques and innovative hands-on projects ensures participants - young and the young at heart develop powerful perspectives and unique skills to navigate unprecedented complex challenges that assail all humanity.
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Comprehensive and multi-dimensional.
At AFEP, we recognize that there are many paths to a meaningful and fulfilling life. Each participant forges their own journey, supported by the tools, guidance, and community AFEP provides. Our purpose is to cultivate confident, capable leaders—individuals who think independently, act with intention, and lead with integrity, not passive followers.
All forms of Bullying Must Stop!
The AFEP is an alternative strategy for ensuring the eradication of this societal evil Plaguing schools, institutions & homes
The AFEP Program has a special heart for those who have and continue to experience all forms of bullying. While we, as a collective are sensitive to bullying in schools, bullying also takes place in institutions and homes. Children, youth, women and seniors remain vulnerable to bullying.
The Ackermann-Froebel Enrichment Program is now equipped with a robust project-based, non-clinical, curriculum founded on ancient wisdom not only for the victim but also for the Perpetrator and the Bystander. The ethos that drives this is due to the conviction that the Perpetrator and the Bystander have been exposed to varied forms of bullying and abuse. The intention is to mitigate the bullied transitioning to the Bully and the abused transitioning to the Abuser. The AFEP also offers project-based non-clinical programming for family members and primary care givers of victims.
The curriculum includes additional projects focused on restoring confidence and identifying safe strategies to mitigate emotional and physical safety concerns. Our community collaborations provide the added resources for sustainable restoration of confidence and valour, and the mitigation of emergent and current threats to personal safety.
The framework of the program and its projects contribute to developing Samurai strategies for leading change and facilitating a safe space for others.
Transformation of a victim into a Samurai Leader.
Values Statement
We believe in the transformative power of learning rooted in curiosity, creativity, and connection. Our values reflect the principles that guide every aspect of our program:
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Curiosity – We encourage questions, exploration, and wonder as the foundation of growth.
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Creativity – We celebrate imagination and innovation in every learner’s journey.
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Confidence – We foster self-belief through experiential learning and personal empowerment.
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Responsibility - we nurture leaders to who take responsibility for life's journey while lending a hand to those who need a lift.
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Respect – We honor diverse perspectives and cultivate mutual understanding.
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Self-Discipline – Inspired by Stoic philosophy, we promote inner strength and thoughtful action.
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Dialogue – Through the Socratic method, we value inquiry, reflection, and meaningful conversation.
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Tradition & Innovation – We blend timeless educational philosophies with modern approaches.
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Inclusivity – We create a safe, welcoming space where every participant feels seen, heard, and valued.
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Lifelong Learning – We inspire a mindset of continuous growth and discovery.
Our Mission
The Ackermann-Froebel Enrichment Program (AFEP) is dedicated to empowering individuals across generations by nurturing their confidence, wisdom, and resilience through a values-based, non-clinical learning experience. Our mission is to cultivate the full and unreserved potential of children, youth, women, and seniors by integrating ancient philosophical wisdom with modern life tools - enabling each participant to navigate the complexities of today’s world and actively shape their own futures.
Grounded in the enduring legacies of Stoicism, the Socratic Method, Froebelian self-directed learning, the Samurai discipline and grit and Dr. Ackermann’s Whole Child framework, our program bridges classical thought with contemporary applications. Through immersive, project-based learning and reflective dialogue, participants gain critical skills in emotional regulation, intellectual curiosity, cognitive strength, sound decision making, setting firm boundaries, cooperation, collaboration, leadership, respect, honor, identifying danger, Communication, and social responsibility.
We believe that wisdom should not be confined to a few elites! AFEP is opening doors so they could share this ancient wisdom with the anticipation that as humanity advances, individuals advance alongside safely and securely. The AFEP provides all individuals a safe, nurturing space to grow, question, create, and lead. By fostering intergenerational partnerships and promoting a “pay-it-forward” ethos, AFEP builds not only individuals, but stronger, more connected communities.
The AFEP aims to create a global network of lifelong learners, confident in the decisions that are made and ethical leaders who are deeply rooted in character, community, and critical thought. Through meaningful mentorship, cultural literacy, and resilient problem-solving, AFEP will shape individuals who are not only prepared for life’s challenges -but who rise to meet them with courage, creativity, and grace.
We see the future not as something to be feared, but as something to be thoughtfully designed - by the hands and hearts of those empowered through knowledge, guided by purpose, and grounded in wisdom.
Our Vision
We envision a world where ancient truths illuminate the way forward as we navigate contemporary and emerging societal, cultural and technological challenges. We envision a world where its leaders are equipped with specific tools and skills to chart not just their own destinies but the destinies of communities within an increasingly complex world.