I’ve been blessed to visit Ghana twice now, and honestly, both journeys changed me in ways I never could have imagined. Ghana isn’t just a destination you check off a list—it’s a homecoming. It’s a place that reaches deep into your spirit and stirs something ancient, something powerful. It’s not a vacation; it’s an experience that speaks directly to your soul.

The moment I set foot on Ghanaian soil, I felt an overwhelming sense of belonging. It was as if the land itself whispered, “Welcome home.” And from that very first greeting, the warmth of the people embraced me. Ghanaians have a way of making you feel seen, heard, and valued. Their smiles are genuine, their hospitality unmatched. Every handshake, every conversation, every shared laugh felt like reconnecting with a long-lost family.

The culture is alive in every corner—in the colors of the kente cloth, in the rhythm of the drums that echo through the streets, in the intricate art and timeless traditions passed lovingly from generation to generation. There’s an energy in Ghana that’s hard to put into words. It makes you want to dance, to celebrate, to live fully in each moment.

And then there’s the food. Oh, the food! Every meal felt like a warm embrace. From the spicy, flavorful jollof rice to the comforting waakye, from fresh-caught tilapia grilled to perfection to the sweet, juicy pineapples that taste like sunshine—every bite told a story of love, tradition, and pride. Sitting down to eat in Ghana isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s about connection. It’s about sharing, about community, about savoring not just the food but the people and the stories that come with it.

But beyond the beauty, the culture, and the flavors, what touched me the most was the rhythm of life in Ghana. There’s a slower pace, a sense of presence that invites you to pause, breathe, and truly feel each moment. Watching children play in the streets, hearing the call to prayer in the distance, seeing elders sit together and share wisdom—it all reminded me that life is meant to be lived with intention and gratitude. Ghana has a way of stripping away the noise and busyness of the world and bringing you back to what truly matters: connection, heritage, and heart.

Yet, the most profound part of my journey was standing in the places where history still lingers heavy in the air. Visiting Cape Coast and Elmina castles was an emotional, almost sacred experience. Walking through those dungeons where my ancestors were once held, feeling the chill of the stone walls, hearing the echoes of their pain and resilience—it’s something I will carry with me forever. I cried. I stood in silence. I prayed. In those moments, I wasn’t just a visitor. I was a witness. I was a descendant. I felt the weight of their suffering, but also the strength of their spirit. It was humbling and deeply healing.

And this—this—is why I believe that everyone needs to experience Ghana at least once in their lifetime. Especially our young people. At a time when there are efforts to erase, distort, or downplay our history, there is nothing more powerful than standing on the very ground where our story began. No textbook can replace the feeling of walking through those castles. No classroom can capture the spirit you feel when you connect with your roots face to face.

Our young people need to see this, to feel this, to know where they come from—not just to honor the pain, but to celebrate the strength, resilience, and beauty of our ancestors. Ghana reminds us that we are more than what history books say. We are survivors. We are builders. We are dreamers. And we are deeply connected to a rich and enduring heritage.

Both of my trips to Ghana left me transformed. I returned home each time feeling more grounded, more centered, more aware of who I am and where I come from. Ghana has a way of shifting something deep inside you—in the best way. It teaches you through its history, its people, its landscapes, and its traditions. It holds a mirror up to your soul and reminds you of your strength, your beauty, and your place in the world.

That’s why Ghana will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s a place that doesn’t just welcome you—it embraces you fully. It doesn’t just teach you—it transforms you. And even now, long after my visits, I carry a piece of Ghana with me wherever I go.

If you ever feel called to visit, I can only say: open your heart, take your time, and let Ghana speak to your spirit. Because once it does, you’ll never be the same—and that’s a beautiful thing.