Crowned with Purpose: The Inspiring Journey of the Queen Mother of Development in Akatakyiwa, Ghana

In a heartwarming story that bridges continents, cultures, and generations, Takara Nikki Nicholson has been crowned as Nana Efua Obonkowa (Queen Mother of Development) in the historic town of Akatakyiwa near Cape Coast, Ghana. 

Her journey is not one of privilege, but of passion, perseverance, and purpose—a testament to the power of ancestral connection and community-driven leadership. From a young age, Nana Efua Obonkowa dreamed of Africa. Though raised in the United States, her heart beat with a yearning to reconnect with her roots. That yearning grew into action when she made it her mission to learn more about Ghana, its people, and the rich heritage from which she descends.

This quest led to the founding of Lady Naps Winery, the first Black-owned winery in Chattanooga, which she co-established with her cousin. What started as a celebration of Black excellence and culture through wine would unexpectedly open doors across the Atlantic. After a feature about the winery was shared online, it caught the attention of George Essoun—a Ghanaian with a shared passion for cultural connection and entrepreneurship. Their virtual introduction quickly evolved into a real-world collaboration rooted in shared values and mutual respect.

Through George, she was introduced to Ibrahim Muntari, a young Ghanaian politician and entrepreneur, and the CEO of the Abraham Smiles Foundation. The trio began working together on a bold new initiative—Connecting Strong Bridges to Africa (CSBAFRICA)—a real estate and development enterprise aimed at fostering meaningful ties between Africa and its diaspora.

Upon her first visit to Ghana, Nana Efua Obonkowa was struck by the contrast between what she'd been told and what she experienced. “There’s so much beauty, opportunity, and unity here,” she often says, “but so many of us have been misinformed.” That revelation sparked a mission: not only to invest in Africa, but to help others rediscover their connection to the continent.

She and her partners began organizing community outreach, visiting orphanages and widows, and offering support wherever possible. Their work did not go unnoticed. Chiefs, elders, and even local royalty took note—not just of her generosity, but of her deep sincerity and commitment to uplift.

Among those leaders was Nana Odeneho Poma, Chief of Akatakyiwa. After witnessing her dedication firsthand, he extended an extraordinary honor: an invitation to serve as the Queen Mother of Development for the town—a role of immense cultural significance, traditionally bestowed upon women who serve as advisors, leaders, and champions of progress.

On September 7, 2024, she was officially enstooled as Queen Mother in a traditional ceremony rich with symbolism, drums, and jubilation. It was a defining moment that marked not just a personal achievement, but a new chapter in Afro-diasporic collaboration. “This isn’t about titles,” she shared in a post-ceremony reflection. “It’s about service. It’s about building sustainable futures, about opening doors for others to find their way home.”

Today, as Queen Mother of Development, she is leading initiatives in education, real estate, women’s empowerment, and cultural exchange. She’s also amplifying conversations around identity and purpose, encouraging African descendants across the world to see Ghana not just as a destination—but as home.

Her journey from a curious child with dreams of Africa to a crowned community leader in Ghana is a stirring example of what happens when passion meets purpose. As she continues her mission to build bridges, empower communities, and honor her roots, one thing is clear—her story is far from over. In fact, it’s just beginning.