About us
Meaning of Sankofa
The Sankofa bird, featured in our logo, is a powerful symbol originating from the Akan people of Ghana. The term “Sankofa” translates to “go back and fetch it,” and the symbol—a bird with its head turned backward carrying an egg in its mouth—embodies the importance of learning from the past to build a better future. In Akan culture, symbols and proverbs are esteemed for their ability to convey wisdom and meaning more effectively than words alone. Understanding and using these symbols is considered a mark of wisdom.
The Sankofa bird’s gesture of retrieving an egg signifies the belief that it is never wrong to return to one’s roots or help others, a sentiment that aligns with the values of Sankofa International. This philosophy mirrors the challenge of climbing a hill, where some have reached the top while others are still struggling with obstacles at the bottom. The founders of Sankofa International, inspired by the opportunities their education provided, chose this symbol to represent their mission: to go back and offer similar opportunities to underserved communities in Ghana. By helping to remove barriers and extend a helping hand, we aim to empower others to overcome challenges and achieve their potential.
Founding of Sankofa
International
Belinda Wireko, originally from Ghana, emigrated in the 1980s to support her family and build a new life. Despite starting a family of her own abroad, she has maintained a strong connection to her roots, frequently visiting Ghana and staying in her childhood home, which is located across the street from the school she attended. During these visits, she kept in close contact with the school’s leadership and became acutely aware of the challenges they faced. The school’s difficulties ranged from inadequate facilities, such as a lack of toilets that forced teachers to end classes early, to a shortage of educational resources, including the absence of actual computers, which led students to rely on books to learn about technology. These observations and experiences inspired Belinda to establish Sankofa International, aiming to address these disparities and improve educational opportunities for Ghanaian youth through enhanced access to technology.
About Sankofa International
Sankofa International was established to bridge the gap in technological education in Ghana. Recognizing the critical need for technology in today’s educational landscape, the organization aims to prevent children from falling behind by equipping them with essential digital tools. As a 501(c)(3) organization, Sankofa International is committed to creating and investing in opportunities for underserved Ghanaian youth. The primary goal is to provide the necessary resources, such as computers, tablets, and internet access, to enhance learning and empower students. Additionally, the organization addresses foundational needs, starting with basics like toiletries and safe facilities, to ensure a conducive learning environment.
Board of Directors
Belinda Wireko
President
Belinda is a retired Nurse Practitioner and worked as a nurse for over 25 years in several companies throughout the Cincinnati, Ohio area. Belinda was born in Kumasi, Ghana and settled in the United States in 1989 with her husband to build a family. Since retiring, Belinda spends his time between the US and Ghana with a focus on giving back to the next generation
Fred Wireko
Vice President
Fred is a retiree from Procter & Gamble where he worked in research and chemistry for over 30 Years. Fred was born in Accra Ghana and traveled from Ghana to the US with stops in Israel and Canada. Fred utilized education to to enable him throughout his life and is looking to provide others with the same opportunity
Michael Wireko
Treasurer
Michael is a Ghanaian American and one of the sons of Fred and Belinda Wireko, He attended The Ohio State University and has established a successful career as an executive at a tech company. Michael brings extensive experience in finance, analytics, and operations to contributing to the organization's mission