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Georgia Tech Alumni Brothers & Family reconnect with the Ancestors in Ghana

  • Writer: Maurice Cheetham
    Maurice Cheetham
  • Jan 13
  • 4 min read

Updated: Jan 15


Recently African Roots Travel, had the honor of curating a deeply personal and impactful journey for three families brought together by their father/husbands shared ties as Georgia Tech Alumni. Each of these men met at Georgia Tech and have maintained there friendship for 25 plus years.


Mike Gyamfi, a native Ghanaian who grew up in the U.S., reached out to African Roots Travel with a heartfelt request: he wanted to design a trip that would allow him and his Georgia Tech Alumni Brothers —who are more like family—to reconnect with their ancestors while also creating opportunities to engage with the local community. This would be more than a cultural trip, it also be the first that the Gyamfi, Leason and Gregory Families planned a vacation on African Soil.

Mike Gyamfi, Proud Ghanaian, Georgia Tech Alumnus and member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. reached out to African Roots Travel to curate a intimate Ghana Travel Experience for his friends.


A Community Connection Through STEM

One of the most unique and rewarding moments of the trip was the group’s visit to the Jack and Jill Brooklyn Ghana STEM Center, home to the Africa STEM Academy Scholars. This wasn’t just a typical tour—our guests were immersed in a collaborative and fun STEM challenge that paired them with program scholars


Sean Gregory, one of the Georgia Tech Alumni, shared how this experience stood out as a highlight for him. The STEM challenge created an environment for organic interaction, where participants worked together to solve problems, share ideas, and build friendships across cultures. The activity showcased the power of education and technology to bring people together while leaving a lasting impact on the students and guests alike.

Sean Gregory, Georgia Tech Alumnus and member of The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. listens to a student discussing the use of  coding  used to program sensors
Sean Gregory, Georgia Tech Alumnus and member of The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. listens to a student discussing the use of coding used to program sensors

Ghana Family Day: A Celebration of Tradition and Togetherness

Another highlight of the trip was Ghana Family Day, a heartwarming experience that took place in an Accra family compound. This intimate setting allowed the group to learn about Ghanaian clan traditions, family life, and the significance of cooking rituals.


The families also participated in a traditional naming ceremony, an emotional moment that connected them to Ghanaian culture in a profound and personal way. These authentic interactions allowed our guests to experience Ghana beyond the surface, creating memories they will cherish for a lifetime.

A joyful gathering at Ghana Family Day in Accra, featuring traditional attire and vibrant decorations.
A joyful gathering at Ghana Family Day in Accra, featuring traditional attire and vibrant decorations.

Honoring the Ancestorsh

The most emotional and unforgettable part of the journey was visiting the Assin Manso Slave River, the site of the last slave bath, and the Cape Coast Slave Dungeons. For many, this was more than a historical visit—it was a spiritual pilgrimage.


Dr. Aneatria Leason, of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., native of Selma Alabama stands joyfully with open arms, honoring her ancestors by the ocean in a spirit of celebration and gratitude.
Dr. Aneatria Leason, of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., native of Selma Alabama stands joyfully with open arms, honoring her ancestors by the ocean in a spirit of celebration and gratitude.

Standing in the very places where stolen captives were held, enduring unimaginable suffering, was an overwhelming and humbling experience. The group took time to honor the spirits of their ancestors, celebrating their resilience and sacrifice. This solemn yet powerful moment served as a reminder of the strength and courage of those who came before us, bridging the past and present in a deeply personal way.


Courtney Gregory, Spelman Alumnus of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc  stands in front of The Door of Return celebrating her  ancestors sacrifice and strength.
Courtney Gregory, Spelman Alumnus of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc stands in front of The Door of Return celebrating her ancestors sacrifice and strength.

Building Bridges Between Cultures

This Ghana Family Trip exemplified the mission of African Roots Travel: creating experiences that connect people not just to the Motherland but also to its vibrant communities. From learning alongside the Africa STEM Academy Scholars to embracing Ghanaian traditions and paying tribute to the ancestors, the journey was a powerful blend of education, culture, and connection.

Leason, Gregory and Gyamfi Families proudly pose in front of the statue of Ghana's first president, Kwame Nkrumah, at the memorial park dedicated to his legacy.
Leason, Gregory and Gyamfi Families proudly pose in front of the statue of Ghana's first president, Kwame Nkrumah, at the memorial park dedicated to his legacy.

Mike Gyamfi’s vision to bring together three families with shared roots and values was brought to life, creating bonds that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re seeking a cultural immersion, a community-focused trip, or a meaningful journey to honor your heritage, African Roots Travel is here to guide you every step of the way.

Georgia Tech Alumnus, Malcolm Leason enjoys learning about the history of Assin Manso Slave Markets during a visit focused on the Trans Atlantic Slave Trade.
Georgia Tech Alumnus, Malcolm Leason enjoys learning about the history of Assin Manso Slave Markets during a visit focused on the Trans Atlantic Slave Trade.
Dr. Rashida Govan Gyamfi, Morgan State Alumni and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc Member, visited the Jack & Jill Brooklyn Ghana STEM Center, inspiring young scholars during her trip to Ghana.
Dr. Rashida Govan Gyamfi, Morgan State Alumni and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc Member, visited the Jack & Jill Brooklyn Ghana STEM Center, inspiring young scholars during her trip to Ghana.

Maurice Cheetham, president of African Roots Travel says "Bringing families, friends, classmates, and teammates together to come home and honor their ancestors' sacrifice is special. I'm proud to have the opportunity to curate these experiences that will be shared with future generations".



Ready to start your own journey to the Motherland? Contact African Roots Travel today to curate your personalized experience. Let us help you connect with Ghana, its people, and its history in a way that resonates with your soul.

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