Dr. Gina Paige, co-founder of African Ancestry, is revolutionizing the way Black people connect with their heritage. Through DNA testing and immersive travel experiences, she’s helping individuals uncover their African roots and transform their lives.
Unlocking African Heritage Through DNA
African Ancestry, co-founded by Dr. Paige, offers a unique service to Black individuals seeking their ancestral origins. The company’s DNA tests focus specifically on African lineages. This specialization sets them apart in the genetic ancestry tracing industry.
“When you’re a Black person in the U.S., the amount of genealogy information available for your family is much more limited,” Dr. Paige explains. Traditional records often fall short due to the impact of slavery and systemic racism.
Overcoming Historical Barriers to Self-Discovery
Black Americans face unique challenges when tracing their lineage. Dr. Paige points out a significant obstacle: “Black people weren’t recorded as human beings on a federal census until 1870.” This historical erasure complicates family research.
Moreover, the dismissal of African governments and cultures has further obscured ancestral connections. “It doesn’t matter how much you know about your family here; you’re not going to get an African answer based on documents,” Dr. Paige notes.
The Psychological Impact of Knowing Your Roots
Understanding one’s origins can have profound psychological benefits. Dr. Paige emphasizes this point: “If you don’t know where you’re from, psychologically, it’s hard to know who you are.” She believes it’s a fundamental human need.
Research supports this view. The Psychiatric Rehabilitation Journal reports that stronger ethnic identity correlates with fewer depressive and anxiety symptoms among Black and Latino/a American adults. This knowledge can be particularly empowering for children in multicultural classrooms.
From DNA Test to Life-Changing Journey
African Ancestry goes beyond just providing DNA test results. The company organizes “African Ancestry family reunions” – birthright journeys to various African countries. These trips allow individuals to experience their ancestral homelands firsthand.
“We’ve had six family reunions in Sierra Leone,” Dr. Paige shares. “We’ve had two in Cameroon. We are adding Nigeria in January, and we are adding Senegal.” These journeys offer a tangible connection to one’s heritage.
Prioritizing Privacy in Genetic Testing
In an era of data concerns, African Ancestry stands out for its commitment to privacy. Dr. Paige proudly states, “We don’t sell or share our customers’ DNA. We never have.” This policy contrasts with other companies that often monetize customer genetic data.
A Personal Mission Rooted in Family
Dr. Paige’s passion for this work stems from her own family experience. She credits her aunt Ocala, her father’s sister, as “the keeper of the family history.” This personal connection drives her mission to help others discover their roots.
Through African Ancestry, Dr. Gina Paige is not just offering a service. She’s providing Black individuals with a key to unlock their past, understand their present, and shape their future. It’s a journey of self-discovery that’s transforming lives, one DNA test at a time.
