AKUA’S STORY

Founder and Co-Adventurer at Dream Catcher Global

 

About Theresa ''Akua'' Powell

I’m Akua—the Founder and Co-Adventurer of Dream Catcher Global, dedicated to helping women ready for a change bring their dreams to life through one-on-one coaching and transformational travel.

I’ve travelled to over 80 countries, immersing myself in indigenous cultures, trekking remote routes, and scaling mountainous terrains. These experiences fuel my passion for creating journeys that go beyond sightseeing, uncovering deeper insights and opportunities for personal growth.

During an adventure in the Asante region in central Ghana, I was honoured with the name 'Akua' by a village chief, meaning helper and leader. This name embodies my commitment to creating transformative experiences that empower women to lead and create their own paths—just as I’ve done on my own journey.


 

Formerly the Deputy Chief of People & Performance at New York University in Abu Dhabi, I bring my expertise in leadership, human potential, and personal development to Dream Catcher Global.

With a bachelor's degree in Leisure & Tourism Management and a master's degree in Human Resources Management, I've always been passionate about creating environments where people can thrive.

Driven by this passion, I have extensively trained in Neuro-Linguistic Programming and earned my master coach certification from the Neuro Leadership Institute. I’ve also pursued advanced training in meditation and self-development arts.

“Through my own travel adventures I had pushed my comfort boundaries and taken risks, and leveraging on these experiences would be a pathway to creating my dream life.”

— Akua

The Journey

In my solitude during the global pandemic, journaling and meditation became my daily rituals, allowing me to find a deeper sense of inner peace. As a new journey began unfolding within me, I realized my passion was shifting—I no longer felt fulfilled by my day job.

Gradually, I was drawn to the path of entrepreneurship, craving the freedom to make my own decisions and build a life that truly reflected who I am at my core.

It became clear that my calling was to find the courage to embark on this new journey and create a space where women could break free, embrace their authentic selves, and realize their limitless potential.

 
red rock ropes course

The Transformation

With my love for travel and people, a life-changing opportunity presented itself—one that allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and into my soul’s purpose. Though stepping into the unknown brought an overwhelming sense of fear, my travel adventures had already pushed my comfort boundaries and taught me to take risks, and leveraging these experiences became my pathway to creating my dream life.

In that moment, I knew my purpose was to help women transform their lives through travel and my one-on-one guidance. I wanted to create opportunities for women who felt stuck or had forgotten their dreams, guiding them to rediscover their courage and authentic selves, and to experience adventures that would make them think, “wow, if I can do this, I can do anything.”