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The Sankofa Scholars Program is a Petersburg-based year-round youth heritage education and cultural exchange program. It teaches leadership, cultural education, and global citizenship. Designed for students ages 12 and up, the program empowers young people in the Petersburg, Richmond, and tri-cities area to explore their African heritage, develop leadership skills, engage in community service, and build meaningful connections across the African diaspora.
Through monthly workshops, guest speakers, cultural activities, service projects, and hands-on learning experiences, students explore topics such as African and African American history, leadership, entrepreneurship, food, music, arts, agriculture, and social justice. The program encourages students to develop pride in their identity while gaining the knowledge and confidence needed to become leaders in their schools and communities.
A signature component of the program is the opportunity for selected students to participate in a cultural immersion journey to Ghana, West Africa, where they experience history firsthand, connect with local youth, and deepen their understanding of the global African experience. Students also participate in service-learning projects and cultural exchange activities that promote mutual understanding and international friendship.
The Sankofa Scholars Program is built on the principle of “Sankofa”—a Ghanaian concept meaning “go back and get it.” By learning from the past, students gain the tools to shape a stronger future for themselves and their communities. The program seeks to cultivate culturally grounded, socially conscious, and globally minded young leaders who are prepared to make a positive impact in the world.
Our partnership with the Virginia State University Dr. Charlie W. Hill Honors College and the Division of Global Leadership and Academic & Talent Development creates unique opportunities for Sankofa Scholars to expand their educational, leadership, and global experiences. Through this collaboration, students gain access to a college pipeline program, international travel opportunities, the Pan-African Summer Institute at VSU, student internships and experiential learning experiences, and participation in the annual Sankofa Diaspora Fest. Together, these initiatives help prepare scholars for academic success, leadership development, cultural engagement, and future career opportunities.
The Mission: To empower young people through cultural education, leadership development, community engagement, and global experiences that connect them to the African diaspora and inspire them to lead with purpose.
The Sankofa Scholars curriculum combines leadership development, African and African American history, cultural education, entrepreneurship, STEAM learning, community service, language study, and global engagement with Ghana. Through hands-on projects and volunteer work through our relationship with Peterburg Rotary, cultural arts, agricultural learning, mentorship, and advocacy initiatives though our partnership with the Petersburg NAACP Youth Council, students develop leadership skills, cultural awareness, critical thinking, and a deeper connection to their heritage while preparing to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
The Sankofa Scholars Program helps students develop a strong sense of identity by educating them on their history, culture, and the contributions of Africa and the African diaspora. Through engaging lessons, cultural activities, and discussions, scholars learn to appreciate their heritage, understand their place in a global community, and draw inspiration from the achievements of those who came before them.
Sankofa Scholars equips young people with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to become effective leaders and engaged citizens. Students learn how to communicate effectively, advocate for issues they care about, and take an active role in improving their schools and communities. The program encourages leadership rooted in service, integrity, and responsibility.
The program teaches that meaningful leadership begins with serving others. Through volunteer projects and community partnerships, scholars develop a commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those around them. These experiences help students build empathy, teamwork, and a lifelong dedication to community engagement.
Sankofa Scholars broadens students’ perspectives by connecting them to the global African diaspora and cultures around the world. Through cultural exchanges, guest speakers, and international travel opportunities, students gain a deeper understanding of global issues, develop cross-cultural communication skills, and learn how their actions can contribute to a more connected and inclusive world.
The program prepares students for success in college, careers, and life by helping them develop practical skills and personal discipline. Scholars engage in activities focused on goal setting, financial literacy, career exploration, entrepreneurship, and character development. By investing in their growth today, students are empowered to build purposeful and successful futures.
Click the link below to apply. Slots are limited. Application deadline is August 30th.
Your donation helps us expand access to educational resources, mentorship opportunities, and cultural programs that empower youth to thrive.
Use the donation form below to make a contribution today.
The Sankofa Scholars Program is open to students ages 12 and older who live in the Central Virginia region and maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA. We welcome students who are eager to develop leadership skills, explore African heritage and culture, engage in community service, and participate in meaningful educational experiences that broaden their worldview.
Yes. A key component of the Sankofa Scholars Program is the opportunity to participate in a transformative educational and cultural exchange experience in Ghana. Students who successfully complete program requirements and fundraising goals may be eligible to travel, where they will engage with local communities, learn about African history and culture firsthand, and build meaningful global connections.
There is no cost to apply to the Sankofa Scholars Program. Program activities, workshops, and educational opportunities are supported through fundraising efforts, sponsorships, donations, and proceeds from Sankofa Travels. Participants are asked to assist with fundraising activities to help offset the cost of special events and international travel experiences.
The Sankofa Scholars Program is a year-round leadership and cultural enrichment program. Students participate in ongoing workshops, mentorship opportunities, service projects, cultural learning experiences, and leadership development activities throughout the year. Scholars are encouraged to remain active in the program throughout their middle and high school years to maximize their growth and impact.
How is the Program Funded
The Program is made possible through the generous support of individual donors, community partners, local businesses, and sponsoring organizations that believe in investing in the next generation of leaders. Contributions help fund educational programming, leadership development activities, cultural experiences, mentorship opportunities, field trips, and international exchange initiatives. Every donation and partnership helps expand opportunities for Central Virginia youth to learn, grow, and connect with their heritage while developing the skills needed to lead in an increasingly global society.
Community support is essential to the success of the Sankofa Scholars Program. Individuals, businesses, and organizations can support our scholars by making a tax deductable financial contribution, sponsoring a student, providing mentorship opportunities, partnering on educational initiatives, or volunteering their time and expertise. Every contribution helps create life-changing opportunities for Central Virginia youth to learn, lead, and connect with their global heritage. Contact us to learn more.
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