Chukwudi Ewa: African Genealogy: An Integral Part of the Future of Genealogical Research
Date/Time
14-Dec-2026
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Eastern
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Eastern
Event Registration
Event Type(s)
Public Event
Event Description
This presentation brings awareness to the issues and misconceptions regarding African genealogical research and explores how they affect both African and diaspora researchers worldwide. A central focus is the vital role African genealogical research plays in helping people of African ancestry reconnect with their actual families and ancestral communities in Africa. By addressing these challenges, genealogists can provide meaningful, accurate connections that go beyond generalized ethnicity estimates.
Drawing on experience as a Nigerian family history researcher trained in Western genealogical standards, the session highlights misconceptions, errors, and structural barriers in African ancestry research. It also presents practical and ethical solutions, including expanding African-led DNA reference panels, integrating DNA results with oral and historical sources, reframing ethnicity reporting, promoting education and awareness about genealogical research in Africa, and fostering collaboration between African and diaspora genealogists.
Attendees will gain insight into the complexities of African ancestry research and leave equipped with strategies to conduct more accurate, inclusive, and ethically responsible genealogy, ultimately helping African-descended families reconnect with their roots.
Drawing on experience as a Nigerian family history researcher trained in Western genealogical standards, the session highlights misconceptions, errors, and structural barriers in African ancestry research. It also presents practical and ethical solutions, including expanding African-led DNA reference panels, integrating DNA results with oral and historical sources, reframing ethnicity reporting, promoting education and awareness about genealogical research in Africa, and fostering collaboration between African and diaspora genealogists.
Attendees will gain insight into the complexities of African ancestry research and leave equipped with strategies to conduct more accurate, inclusive, and ethically responsible genealogy, ultimately helping African-descended families reconnect with their roots.
Details
About the Presenter
Chukwudi Emmanuel Ewa is a Nigerian family history researcher and genealogist currently residing in the United States. He is a student at Brigham Young University (BYU), Provo, where he is pursuing advanced studies in Family History and Genealogy, building on formal training in genealogical research, documentation, and analysis. Chukwudi has a keen interest in African and African American genealogy, with a strong focus on Nigerian ancestry. He combines cultural and historical knowledge of West Africa with Western genealogical methodologies, enabling him to bridge gaps that often exist in African diaspora research. He has volunteered with multiple genealogical organizations and research initiatives, contributed to community-based ancestry projects, and delivered presentations for international audiences, including the Society of Genealogists (SOG). Chukwudi is also a co-founder of AfroGen Global Resources, an organization dedicated to improving access to African genealogical records and expanding research opportunities across Nigeria and West Africa. Through research, education, and collaboration, Chukwudi is committed to preserving African family histories and empowering people of African descent worldwide to reconnect with their ancestral heritage.Outlook/vCalendar/Google
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