Planting People Growing Justice Leadership Institute (PPGJLI) proudly announces its forthcoming ‘2024 Ghana: Back to My Roots’ cultural and educational trip from Friday, June 28, to Saturday, July 6, 2024. This year marks the premiere of a thought-provoking documentary film, reflecting on the profound journey of African-Americans returning to the motherland.
Founded by Dr. Artika Tyner, PPGJLI is an organization deeply invested in fostering literacy and leadership skills among youth and preserving the rich cultural heritage of people of African descent. The announcement coincides with global recognition of the United Nations-declared International Decade for People of African Descent, spanning 2015–2024.
In the words of Dr. Tyner, “They must return to the source,” alluding to the Sankofa bird’s message that advocates reaching back to knowledge gained in the past to make positive progress in the present. Dr. Tyner is joined by community members, educators, and business leaders seeking to connect with their roots and celebrate shared history and humanity. As part of the pilgrimage celebration, Dr. Tyner is also premiering a documentary that encapsulates the candid emotions of Africans on their year of return.
‘The Elders Reflections – Year of Return Pilgrimage’ is a powerful documentary featuring first-hand accounts from participants of the previous journey during the ‘Year of Return’ in 2019. The film captures emotions that surface when walking through heritage sites, engaging with local communities, and understanding the resilience of one’s ancestors. The testimonies explore themes of homecoming, reflection, and the responsibility to keep history alive.
PPGJLI remains committed to empowering the leaders of tomorrow through initiatives underpinning leadership, innovation, and education. A signature component is the annual youth leadership summit at Senchi Ferry Library in Ghana, where young minds are nurtured through mentorship and diverse reading materials that honor their lineage and expand horizons.
This year, PPGJLI continues to bridge gaps within local communities in Ghana while calling on global partners to support its mission. Supporters can contribute by making donations for school supplies or purchasing literature featuring African heritage, including the special edition ‘Amazing Africa: A to Z.’
Signing up for the trip is an investment in oneself and an act of solidarity with the institute’s efforts in Ghana. In the lead-up to the 2024 journey, following Dr. Tyner’s footsteps signifies a new chapter in each participant’s personal discovery and investment in collective history.
For more information or to reserve a spot for the ‘2024 Ghana: Back to My Roots’ trip, please visit the PPGJLI website.
To contribute to PPGJLI’s leadership events or book donations in Ghana, interested parties can contact the institute directly or use the donation portal on its website.
About Planting People Growing Justice Leadership Institute:
PPGJLI advocates for global literacy and leadership development while endorsing cultural pride across the African Diaspora. Led by Dr. Artika Tyner, a celebrated educator and advocate for justice, PPGJLI continues to influence change—locally and globally—through education, outreach, and advocacy.
Media Contact
Company Name: Planting People Growing Justice® Leadership Institute
Contact Person: Media Relations
Phone: (651) 303-6566
City: Saint Paul
State: Minnesota
Country: United States
Website: www.ppgjli.org
