“What would you do if we moved to Ghana?” Harry’s question sparked conversations that had always lingered on the edges of our thoughts. The idea of raising our children in Ghana, surrounded by their cultural roots, had been a recurring theme in our discussions. The decision to make the move was not just about a change in geography; it was a deliberate choice to offer our children an upbringing grounded in their Ghanaian identity. The journey back home unfolded with meticulous planning. Setting a deadline, we sold our London house and shipped our belongings to Ghana. The prospect of entrepreneurship beckoned, and armed with training in Neuro-Linguistic Programming and image consulting, I founded ‘Amazing U.’ The Labone office space, though beautiful, echoed the uncertainties of entrepreneurship in an emerging economy. Networking, speaking engagements, and training became the stepping stones to opportunities, proving that sowing seeds in unfamiliar soil could yield a harvest of success. The challenges of paying bills and navigating the unpredictable waves of entrepreneurship were met with faith and a positive mindset. Connecting with returnee ladies and the formation of Sankofa International Ladies Association (SILA) provided a supportive community, an essential anchor in the tumultuous seas of change. The dream of building a home in Ghana took eight years to materialize, teaching us resilience, dedication, and the joy of seeing dreams come to fruition. As we settled into our new home, the applause from our children echoed the sentiments of disbelief turned into appreciation for our unrelenting commitment to family and heritage. Returning to Ghana granted me the priceless joy of spending over a decade bonding with my grandmother, who played a crucial role in shaping my upbringing. We shared laughter and joy while celebrating my 50th birthday in August 2023. The next month, on September 23, I went to visit her, and we flipped through my Birthday Journal, reveling in pride at the journey she had witnessed. Sadly, on October 2, only 9 days later, she fell, and at the remarkable age of 109, peacefully passed away on October 24th, 2023. Our last time together became an indescribably priceless moment, etched in my heart, Her wisdom, love, and the shared celebration of my life in Ghana deeply resonate with me. This incredible journey from the bustling streets of London to the comforting warmth of Ghana isn’t just about a series of events—it’s a deeply personal story of love, purpose, and resilience. It’s about rediscovering the profound importance of family ties and embracing the rich heritage and roots that have played a pivotal role in shaping who I am today. 40 The Birthday Journal
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTAyMTM3NQ==