The Meaning of Sankofa

Sankofa is a word from the Akan language of Ghana. It means “go back and get it” — a call to return to what’s essential, to retrieve what was left behind in order to move forward with wisdom and purpose.

The symbol of Sankofa is often depicted as a bird reaching back to take an egg from its back — a powerful image of remembrance, responsibility, and reclamation. For us, it’s more than a concept. It’s a compass.

At Sankofa Leadership, we see reflection not as a luxury, but as a necessity — especially in systems built on urgency, scarcity, and survival. Our work invites practitioners and leaders to pause, look back, and examine how their mindset, practices, and power are shaping the experiences of those they serve.

We believe this act of returning to values, to community, to dignity, is where real transformation begins.

Sankofa reminds us that we don’t have to choose between evolution and integrity. We can do both. We can lead with courage while staying connected to care. We can serve with urgency while honoring humanity. We can shift systems by centering the people most impacted.

That’s the root of our work. And it’s the legacy we’re committed to shaping.