Reclaim the past.

About

Sankofa

Sankofa is a word and concept originating from the Akan people of Ghana, West Africa. The term "Sankofa" comes from the Akan language, specifically the Twi language, and is made up of two parts: "san" meaning "to return" or "to go back," and "kofa" meaning "to fetch" or "to take."

Sankofa is often represented by a mythical bird with its feet facing forward and its head turned backward, symbolizing the idea of moving forward while looking back. It is commonly depicted with an egg held in its beak, representing the future.

The concept of Sankofa embodies the idea of learning from the past in order to build a better future. It encourages individuals and communities to reflect on and draw wisdom from their history, traditions, and cultural heritage. Sankofa teaches that one must understand and appreciate their roots in order to make meaningful progress and create a positive future.

In essence, Sankofa serves as a reminder to embrace the valuable lessons of the past and use them as a foundation for personal growth, community development, and cultural preservation. It promotes the importance of cultural identity, historical awareness, and the intergenerational transmission of knowledge.

I believe that literature holds the power to connect generations, bridge gaps, and foster understanding. Just as the mythical Sankofa bird looks backward while moving forward, we recognize that by engaging with the literary works of Black writers, we can draw profound lessons and inspire transformative change in the present.

Bri

owner, writer

Drawing inspiration from the concept of Sankofa, I have dedicated my career  and life's work to creating a space that embraces the past, present, and future of diverse storytelling. By curating a diverse collection of books, my hope is that Sankofa Books stands as a beacon of inclusivity and cultural awareness, celebrating the literary heritage of various communities.

My journey in the literary industry began with a deep appreciation for the transformative nature of literature. Recognizing the power of books to educate, inspire, and ignite change, I embarked on a mission to uplift marginalized voices and foster a more inclusive literary landscape. With an unyielding commitment to literary excellence, I established the Sankofa Books literary agency to provide a platform for emerging and established writers to share their narratives with the world. My personalized approach to literary representation ensures that each writer receives the guidance, mentorship, and professional expertise necessary to elevate their craft.

Qualifications + Achievements

Bachelor of Arts, Liberal Studies/English

Master of Science, English and African American Literature

Certified Book Editor

Author of Emani Takes a Deep Breath (2022) and This Loud Silence (2023)