IVAS (International Vision for African Solidarity) is a global organization dedicated to preserving African heritage, reconnecting the diaspora with ancestral roots, and fostering cultural continuity across generations. Founded on the principles of Sankofa—looking back to move forward—we bridge the gap between past and present, honoring our ancestors while empowering future generations.
Our Philosophy
"Legacy is not what we leave behind, but what we carry forward. It is the living memory of our ancestors, the cultural DNA that shapes our identity, and the responsibility we bear to future generations."
Our Founding Story
IVAS was established in 2005 by a collective of diaspora leaders, traditional elders, and cultural preservationists who recognized the urgent need to address the cultural dislocation caused by centuries of separation from the African continent. The organization emerged from a series of historic "Return to Source" journeys to Ghana's Cape Coast, where participants experienced profound healing through reconnection with ancestral lands.
What began as informal gatherings of diaspora returnees evolved into a structured organization with programs spanning three continents. Today, IVAS operates cultural centers in Ghana, the United States, and the United Kingdom, serving thousands of diaspora members each year through education, cultural programming, and return journeys.
Our Core Values
Sankofa
Learning from the past to build a better future. We honor ancestral wisdom while innovating for contemporary challenges.
Ubuntu
"I am because we are." We believe in interconnectedness and collective responsibility for community wellbeing.
Justice
Commitment to historical truth, reparative justice, and equitable access to cultural reconnection.
Sustainability
Building programs that endure across generations, ensuring cultural continuity long after we're gone.
Our Global Reach
Diaspora Members Served
Through return journeys, cultural programs, and educational initiatives since 2005.
Communities Engaged
Across Ghana, the Caribbean, United States, United Kingdom, and Brazil.
Years of Impact
Building bridges between the African diaspora and the continent since 2005.
Our Leadership
Dr. Kwame Abena
Historian and cultural anthropologist with 25 years of experience in diaspora studies. PhD from University of Ghana.
Nana Ama Serwaa I
Queen Mother of Abura Traditional Area and cultural preservation expert. Leads all traditional ceremonies and rituals.
Akosua Mensah
Former community organizer with 15 years of experience connecting diaspora communities across three continents.
Our Partners & Affiliations
IVAS collaborates with a global network of organizations committed to cultural preservation and diaspora reconnection:
Get Involved
IVAS is more than an organization—it's a movement. Join us in preserving cultural heritage and reconnecting the African diaspora with ancestral roots:
- Participate: Join a return journey or cultural program
- Volunteer: Offer your skills to support our mission
- Donate: Support our programs financially
- Partner: Collaborate with us on cultural initiatives
- Advocate: Spread awareness about diaspora reconnection