Sankofa Club – iamherescholarship.org

Community and Mentorship

THE SANKOFA CLUB

A living community of scholars, mentors, and future leaders united by one conviction: the further you go, the more responsibility you carry to reach back.

The Meaning

What is Sankofa?

The word Sankofa originates from the Akan tribe of Ghana, whose people believe the past serves as a guide for shaping the future. History reports it was this tribe’s quest for knowledge and the challenges encountered that provoked their critical review, and scholarly and enduring conviction of the importance of wisdom in learning. The profound meaning of these three syllabic words translates as follows:

SAN (Return)
KO (Go)
FA (Look, Seek and Take)

The Sankofa principle and symbolism, a mythical bird with its feet firmly planted forward and its head turned backwards convey an emphatic powerful truth: “it is not taboo to fetch what is at risk of being left behind” or in native Akan: “Se wo were fi na wosankofa a yenkyi”

In literal terms this Adinkra belief is a charge to evoke the responsibility to move forward, but never forgetting to reach back to lift others who still await opportunities, as we rise.

In the spirit of Sankofa, the I AM HERe Scholarship is a bridge between the past and future, carrying forward the dreams of those who are on a quest for knowledge while opening doors for others who will follow. After all, progress is not a solitary journey—it is a shared path.

Four Pillars of the Club

The Sankofa Club is built on four interlocking pillars that support scholars not just during their time at Keta SHTS, but for life.

Mentorship

I AM HERe scholars are awarded both gifts of opportunity and guidance. Each student is paired with a professional mentor in their chosen field, someone to offer wisdom, encouragement, and a direct link to the professional world students are preparing to enter. These mentors are more than advisors. They are role models, connectors, and champions who help scholars see what is possible.

Skill Building

At the I AM HERe Scholarship, learning doesn’t stop at textbooks or in-classrooms lectures—it extends to accessing essential skills that life demands. Through regular workshops, scholars gain more than academic knowledge; they are equipped with the tools to thrive in every aspect of their journey. From leadership and communication to financial literacy, career planning, and other critical skill building activities, these workshops are designed to empower students to confidently step into their future. They provide practical wisdom, real-world strategies, and the know-hows to confidently navigate challenges Beyond the Classroom.

Peer Tutoring

Scholars share the responsibility of giving back by tutoring other students. Through this act of service, they honor the wisdom of the past while empowering the future, reinforcing the SANKOFA principle—the guiding bedrock of this scholarship. Thus, strengthening their own academic mastery while empowering the next generation of learners, and fostering a culture of collaboration, leadership, and academic excellence. This commitment builds a much stronger, more collaborative school community.

Lifelong Network

Once a Scholar, Forever a Steward. Membership with the Sankofa Club does not expire. Graduates become part of a growing alumni network, future mentors, donors, and advocates who embody the responsibility to give back. The continuing legacy of Helping and Empowering, ensures that each generation uplifts the next and perpetuates a lasting cycle of giving back. It is a lifelong bond, a cycle of support that grows stronger with every voice, every hand, and every heart committed to the mission.

What We Do

Club Activities

Throughout each academic year, the Sankofa Club brings scholars together for a range of structured and informal activities.

Monthly Mentorship Sessions

One-on-one and group sessions with assigned industry mentors, covering career pathways, academic challenges, and personal development.

Career Exposure Days

Visits to organisations and institutions in the scholars' fields of study, providing real-world exposure and helping scholars make informed decisions about their university and career paths.

Personal Life Plan Reviews

Scholars revisit and refine their Personal Life Plans each term, setting new goals and reflecting on progress with support from their mentors and the Mentorship Lead.

Junior Tutoring Programme

Scholars commit a minimum of 2 hours per week to tutoring Form 1 students in their strongest subjects. This is a core Sankofa obligation, giving back to the community that supported them.

Leadership Workshops

Quarterly workshops on leadership, public speaking, teamwork, and conflict resolution, designed to build confidence and prepare scholars for leadership roles in school and beyond.

Community Service Projects

Each cohort undertakes a community service project of their choosing, from literacy drives to health awareness campaigns, connecting scholarship with responsibility beyond the school gates.

Apply to Join!

Ready to join the Sankofa Club?

Membership begins the moment you receive the scholarship.

Apply today and start your journey.