Sankofa Bridge, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, offers cultural experiences at no cost to youth in New York City and Westchester County from low-income households and those at-risk. The flagship program, Sankofa Travel, provides national and international travel opportunities to eligible youth. To qualify for international travel, applicants must be aged 15-18 and have no prior international travel experience. For full eligibility requirements, visit sankofabridge.org/apply.
As part of the acceptance package, Sankofa Bridge covers the expenses for obtaining passports, as well as any necessary Visas and vaccinations.
In August of 2024, Sankofa Bridge embarked on a cultural exploration and pilgrimage to Accra, Ghana with Kwadwo, a 15-year-old youth from Brooklyn, NY selected as a scholarship recipient in the Sankofa International Travel program.
On this journey, I hope to experience different ways of listening, embracing, and experiencing life. - Kwadwo Magloire
W.E.B. Du Bois Center for Pan-African Culture
Our journey at the W.E.B. Du Bois Museum immersed us in history and culture. Exploring Du Bois's former home and artifacts, we delved into his impact on society and dedication to social justice. Visiting his final resting place, we felt a deep bond with his legacy, reflecting on his enduring influence.
Makola Market
It is crucial to visit Accra's Makola Market for shopping. You can discover a wide range of items such as fresh shea butter, Kente fabrics, clothing, and jewelry, all available at very reasonable prices.
Assin Manso Slave River Site
On the journey to Cape Coast, about a 3-hour drive from Accra, we stopped at the Assin Manso Slave River Site. The Assin Manso Slave River Site marks the location in Ghana where enslaved Africans took their "last bath" before continuing their harrowing journey to the castles, from where they would be shipped to the Americas.
Kwame Nkrumah Museum and Mausoleum
Located in Accra, Ghana, the Kwame Nkrumah Museum and Mausoleum is a significant historical site honoring Ghana's first president, showcasing exhibits detailing his life, role in Ghana's independence, and legacy in African politics. The mausoleum houses Nkrumah's final resting place, offering a reflective space for visitors to pay their respects. This site provides a unique opportunity to explore Ghana's history and understand Nkrumah's impact on the nation and Africa.
Cape Coast Castle
During the trip, a significant attraction was the visit to Cape Coast Castle, a port where numerous enslaved Africans were traded and transported to the Americas to endure chattel slavery.
Mable's Table Guest House and Restaurant
Visiting Mable's Table before departing Ghana is essential. Situated just a short distance from Elmina Castle, this restaurant overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. Rabbi Halevi, originally from Mount Vernon, NY, has been living in Ghana for over 25 years. The restaurant is named in honor of his wife. Rabbi Halevi also serves as the Executive Director of the Panafest Foundation, organizing the yearly Pan-African Festival.
Student Cultural Exchange
During our visit to Manna Mission Academy in Accra, Ghana, the staff and youth from Sankofa Bridge had the opportunity to meet the energetic elementary and middle school students. We exchanged information about our respective cultures.
Day of Service
The team from Sankofa Bridge, including both staff and young members, paid a visit to Manna Mission Hospital in Accra, Ghana. During the visit, Coreen McCall, the CEO & President of Sankofa Bridge, personally went to see the sick children and women in post-operative care, offering her support and prayers. Meanwhile, Kwadwo assisted the hospital's IT department by aiding in document organization.
Help Support Our Programs
To support the expansion of the Sankofa International Travel program for young people, you can participate in the Membership program and sponsor a youth for $25 per month at sankofabridge.org/membership. For contributions of any size, visit sankofabridge.org/donate.
For more photos from the trip, visit sankofabridge.org/event-photos.
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