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Growing Minds, Honoring Roots.
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.
Students develop a strong sense of identity by exploring African and African Diaspora history, culture, and contributions. Through engaging lessons, cultural activities, and discussions, scholars deepen their appreciation of their heritage, strengthen their connection to their community, and draw inspiration from the achievements of those who came before them.
Scholars build the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to become effective leaders and engaged citizens. They learn to communicate effectively, advocate for issues they care about, and take an active role in improving their schools and communities while developing leadership rooted in service, integrity, and responsibility.
Meaningful leadership begins with serving others. Through volunteer projects and community partnerships, scholars cultivate empathy, teamwork, and a lifelong commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those around them.
Scholars broaden their perspectives by connecting with the global African Diaspora and cultures around the world. Through cultural exchanges, guest speakers, and international travel opportunities, they gain a deeper understanding of global issues, strengthen cross-cultural communication skills, and learn how their actions contribute to a more connected and inclusive world.
The program prepares students for success in college, careers, and life by developing practical skills and personal discipline. Scholars participate in activities focused on goal setting, financial literacy, career exploration, entrepreneurship, and character development, empowering them to build purposeful and successful futures.
Click the link below to apply. Slots are limited. Application deadline is August 30th.
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