Iyabo Gathers

Restoring and Reclaiming as Revolution

Join "Iyabo Gathers" from September 6-16, 2024, for a journey of self-discovery and reconnection in Ghana's splendor. Engage in community, culture, and healing amidst the beauty of our ancestral land.

Cultural Reconnection

Re-member and rediscover your roots through immersive cultural experiences, from historical site visits to traditional culinary sessions. Embrace Ghana’s customs, sounds, and tastes as you journey back to the origins of our heritage.

Healing, Love, & Self Care

Nurture your spirit in a space dedicated to wellness and reflection. Engage in activities designed for mental and physical rejuvenation, including meditation, spa treatments, and ceremonies that honor our collective resilience.

Community & Empowerment

Build lasting bonds in a community that uplifts and supports. Participate in dialogues, workshops, and group activities that foster personal growth and empower us to be the leaders of our narrative.

Arrival

September 6

"Iyabo Gathers" Ghana Retreat Itinerary

September 6-16, 2024

Day 1: Arrival in Ghana

  • Airport Pickup: Welcome and transportation to the hotel.

  • Meals: Lunch or dinner depending on the time of arrival.

Day 2: Explore Accra

  • Accra City Tour: Includes transportation, entrance fees, and meals.

    • Black Star Square

    • National Museum

    • Kwame Nkrumah Museum

    • Makola Market

    • Evening: Experience Accra's vibrant nightlife.

Day 3: Cape Coast Heritage

  • Festival Participation: Join the Bakatue Festival.

Day 4: Ancestral Walk

  • Walking with Our Ancestors:

    • Assin Manso Slave River

    • Cape Coast Slave Castle

    • Naming Ceremony: "Coming Home to Ourselves."

Day 5: Elmina's History

  • The Door of No Return:

    • Elmina Slave Castle

    • Elmina Fishing Market

    • Elmina Township

Day 6: Wellness Day

  • Relaxation: Massage at the beach to relax and reflect.

Day 7: Cultural Immersion

  • Cook & Learn:

    • Ghanaian Cooking Class

    • Twi Language Lesson

Day 8: Nature's Splendor

  • Natural Beauty of Ghana:

    • Shai Hills Game Reserve

    • Scenic Boat Ride

Day 9: Ghana's Resources

  • *Natural Resource Exploration

  • Aburi Botanical Garden

  • Tetteh Quarshie Cocoa Farm

Day 10: Farewell Ghana

  • Bringing the Motherland Home:

    • Shopping at Art and Craft Centre

    • Final Dinner

Departure

September 16

Invest in Your Journey: $6500

Embark on an enriching adventure with "Iyabo Gathers" and invest in an experience that transcends the ordinary. Your $ 6,500 investment covers a comprehensive 10-day cultural immersion that promises to connect you with the heart of Ghana and foster personal growth and communal bonds that will last a lifetime.

What Your Investment Includes:

  • Roundtrip airfare from the US to Accra, Ghana.

  • In-country transportation accompanied by a knowledgeable Ghanaian guide.

  • Entrance fees to all historical sites and special events.

  • Comfortable, safe, and welcoming lodging with air conditioning and Wi-Fi amenities.

  • Most meals that offer a taste of Ghana's rich culinary heritage.

  • Cultural experiences designed to enlighten and inspire.

Your investment is not merely a cost but a gateway to memories that will enrich your life's tapestry. With "Iyabo Gathers," you're not just a traveler; you're a vital part of a story that weaves the past, present, and future together.

Ready to gather in the Motherland?

Take the first step on this life-changing journey. A $500.00 deposit is required by 2/12/2024 to secure your spot in the "Iyabo Gathers" family. The 500.00 deposit, full payment, and ongoing payments can be made via PayPal; reserve your spot; it is going to be amazing! The Motherland needs you! Spaces are limited to ensure an intimate and impactful experience.

Plan to attend at least 2 of the 3 informational sessions via Zoom: February 11th, May 19th, and June 30th, 2024.

About Dr. Pamela Twyman Hoff

Founder & Visionary of "Iyabo Gathers"

Dr. Pamela Twyman Hoff, the heart and soul behind "Iyabo Gathers," is a beacon of inspiration for the community. She holds a Ph.D. in Educational Studies and is an Endowed Professor of Policy and Equity at the University of Illinois in the School of Education. Dr. Hoff has dedicated her life to fostering spaces where Black people, particularly Black women can reconnect with their roots and flourish through shared cultural experiences.

Vision

Her vision for "Iyabo Gathers" stems from a deep-seated belief in the power of heritage and communal healing. Dr. Hoff envisions a world where every Black woman can embark on a journey of self-discovery and embrace the collective wisdom of our ancestors.

Contact.

We at "Iyabo Gathers" are here to support your journey every step of the way. If you have any questions, need more information, or just want to chat about what the experience entails, don't hesitate to reach out to iyabogathers@gmail.com or use the contact card below. Our team is ready to assist you with heartfelt service and prompt responses.

Important information & FAQ:

  • Are Brothers welcome to gather? Yes! Of course, brothers are welcome to gather in community in Ghana, too. This is too powerful, too healing, too epic to exclude our sons, significant partners, and husbands.

  • How can I secure a gathering spot, and are payments allowed? The total amount for the gathering experience is 6500.00. A 500.00 or more deposit is due by 2/12/2024 via PayPal or credit card. This amount counts toward the full amount. Gatherers may make payments via PayPal. Balances must paid by June 15, 2024. Gatherers may cancel for any reason and receive the full amount paid minus processing fees until April 1, 2024. After April 1st until June 15, 2024, gatherers will receive 80% of what was paid, minus processing fees. After June 15, 2024, gathers will receive 60% of what has been paid if canceling is unavoidable.

  • Do I need a passport? Please ensure that your passport is up to date; we strongly suggest applying for the passport in February. For information on how to apply for your passport, go here: U.S. passports | USAGov

  • How do I get a Ghanaian Visa? Traveling to Ghana requires a passport and a visa. To complete the application, please go here: Visa Application - Embassy of Ghana, Washington DC (ghanaembassydc.org) . Please note that all visa applications require a letter of support; our Ghanaian partner, BA Travel, will provide those letters. Those letters will be provided to all gatherers by July 2024.

  • Where will we stay while in Ghana? Lodging information will be provided as the number of gatherers solidifies. Everyone will have their own accommodations. The lodging will be clean and cool. There are no discounts for roommates (at this time).

  • How much money should I take: For a Currency Exchange: GHS - Ghanaian Cedi (GH₵) use this app: OANDA Currency Converter for current rates. It depends on how much you like to shop. I had a griffe flown back to the States with the help of a determined brother and sister (family). We will share more in the informational session.

  • Informational Sessions (via Zoom): Links will be provided - to confirm attendance.

  • The $6,500 fee covers all your major expenses during the trip, including roundtrip airfare from the US to Accra, all transportation within Ghana, entrance fees for all scheduled activities, accommodations, and most meals (lunch and/or dinner per the itinerary). We will travel to Ghana as a group. Gatherers must secure flights from their homes to the airport from which we will depart.

  • Yes! A visa is required gatherers from the US cannot enter Ghana without a passport and visa. You can apply for a visa through the Ghanaian Embassy. There are additional cost associated with the visa and a letter of support from an in-country institution or individual is required. Iyabo Gathers in partnership with BA Tours will provide support by July 2024.

  • Pay the $500.00 deposit by 2/12/2024 - via PayPal or credit care. Make sure your passport is up to date. Read over the Ghanaian visa requirements. Do some reading about the wonderful country of Ghana and its rich culture. Plan to attend at least 2 (of 3) zoom information sessions. The weather is generally warm, so lightweight . clothing is recommended. Don't forget a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses for protection against the sun. We'll send a detailed packing list the closer we get to our gathering time. Leave room for some beautiful art! We will talk about this in one of the informational sessions.

  • "Iyabo Gathers" is dedicated to creating a personal and transformative experience, so we limit our groups to no more than 20 participants. This ensures that each traveler receives individual attention and the community feels close-knit. We do not have couples discounts at the moment.

  • Absolutely. We cater to various dietary needs. Please inform us of your dietary restrictions well in advance, so we can make the necessary arrangements, and be sure to advocate or yourself!

  • We understand that unforeseen circumstances can occur. Our cancellation policy allows for a refund up to a certain date, which we will specify upon booking. After that date, a portion of your investment may be non-refundable. We recommend travel insurance to cover any unexpected changes.

  • Yes, the accommodations we have chosen provide Wi-Fi. However, we encourage participants to disconnect as much as possible to fully engage with the experience.