Marion Ashton, the CEO and founder of "The Sankofa Foundation of Canada", minutes before her interview with Mount Royal University. (Sukh Dhillon, CMRU.ca)
The foundation
Founded by the passionate and visionary Marion Ashton, the Sankofa Foundation of Canada is making waves in Calgary’s non-profit landscape. Rooted in the Akan tradition of Ghana, “Sankofa” means “go back and fetch,” symbolizing the importance of learning from the past to build a stronger future. This ethos guides the foundation’s mission to empower youth through arts, music, and community engagement.
The focus
Initially focused on introducing children from diverse backgrounds to classical music, Sankofa has since evolved into a vibrant organization with a broader cultural mandate. At its core, however, is the belief that music and art serve as transformative tools for fostering identity, leadership, and social responsibility among youth.
Memories
One of the foundation’s standout initiatives is Black Grad, Alberta’s first event of its kind celebrating the achievements of Black Canadian grade 12 students. For Marion Ashton, the event is more than a milestone—it’s a reflection of what Sankofa is all about. “Watching youth from all backgrounds come together, their commitment to the vision, and their joy in creating a space that reflects their identity is something I take great pride in,” she shared. The event’s behind-the-scenes moments, where collaboration and dedication shine, are what make it truly unforgettable for her.
The impact
The impact of Sankofa ripples far beyond its programs. Many alumni return as mentors, nurturing the next generation of young leaders. Ashton measures the foundation’s success by the personal growth of its youth and their willingness to give back to the community. “It’s about building social responsibility,” she says.
Future goals
Looking ahead, Sankofa has exciting projects in the works, including their popular summer camp, which promises opportunities for volunteers and mentors. “We’re always looking for people passionate about youth development, art, and music,” Ashton encourages.
Through its programs, Sankofa is not just shaping talented artists or students—it’s cultivating a sense of belonging, cultural pride, and a commitment to community. To support their mission by donating, mentoring, or volunteering, visit their social media platforms.
As Ashton puts it, Sankofa is about more than the final product; it’s about the journey, the collaboration, and the reflection that leads to meaningful change.
Personal Reflection
Reflecting on the work of the Sankofa Foundation of Canada, I feel deeply moved by the impact that art, music, and cultural identity have on shaping young lives. Marion Ashton’s commitment to empowering youth through these tools is truly inspiring, especially in a world where so many voices go unheard. The meaning behind “Sankofa”—to go back and retrieve what was lost—feels so personal. It’s a reminder to honor our roots while striving for a brighter future, a lesson that feels incredibly relevant in my own life.
Hearing about events like Black Grad hits home for me. The idea of celebrating Black Canadian youth in a way that truly reflects their identities and accomplishments feels both uplifting and overdue. It reminds me how important it is to create spaces where people feel seen and celebrated for who they are.
What stands out the most is how many alumni return to mentor younger participants. That sense of giving back, of lifting others as you climb, is so powerful. It shows the strength of the community Sankofa has built—a place where growth and support go hand in hand.
Sankofa’s work makes me think about my role in the community. How can I help create spaces where people feel they belong? How can I support others in reclaiming and celebrating their own “Sankofa”? These questions challenge me, but they also inspire me to act. It’s a reminder that even small contributions can create ripples of change.
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