Inspiring Hearts | Strengthening Characters | Celebrating Achievements | Nurturing Resilience
The Foundation & Framework
The Ackermann-Froebel Enrichment Program (AFEP) is a research-driven enrichment initiative for Children/Youth (girls only), Women and 70+ Women. The program, valuing the wisdom of life is designed to harness resilience, critical thinking, emotional and social intelligence, and purpose-driven influence. These are achieved through engaging with immersive, niche and dynamic Japanese themed projects.
Grounded in timeless philosophical traditions and enriched by Japanese cultural projects, AFEP equips the three demographic groups with unique skills.
Through the program, girls are empowered with critical thinking skills, ability to set boundaries, take charge, manage, lead and cope with environmental challenges.
The Women's program is meant to celebrate women and their sacrificial nature. Women, knowingly or unknowingly exert enormous influence in their environments. The program allows women to rediscover their purpose and passion, so they are enabled to rediscover themselves in a 'sisterhood' environment.
The program recognizes and values the life lessons the 70+ women have acquired. The younger women stand on the shoulders of giants! s
Through hands-on innovative individual and collaborative projects, participants progress along a trajectory that is unique to them. While the identified outcomes are different for the three groups, the pinnacle point is the same!
AFEP is a journey of Becoming! It is a journey rooted in timeless wisdom for purposeful self-awareness and purpose.
What Makes AFEP Unique
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The program is founded on ancient wisdom of Socrates and stoicism. Its framework is based on the foundational philosophical work of Edith Ackermann's 'Whole Child Development' and on the Froebelian Principles introduced by Friedrich Froebel. For hands-on learning participants will engage in Japanese themed projects that will enhance cognitive, intellectual, social and coping skills.
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The program includes the following:
The 'Ikigai' Womens Circle: Finding purpose, passion and strategy through projects while building a community of 'sisterhood'.
The 'Sofubo' 70+ Women: Passing to the next generation through projects that capture family stories, traditions and lessons learned.
The Samurai program for Girls: Learning differently to support learning through project-based initiatives and experiential learning with community partner engagement.
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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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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.
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, learning experience. Our mission is to cultivate the full and unreserved potential of girls, women, and 70+ women 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 pathways.
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.