Donisha Stewart

I find myself struggling to put into words the depth of my gratitude for the opportunity to study abroad in Accra, Ghana, for 10 days with Malcolm X College. Before this trip, I knew the experience would be life-changing, as it was my first time traveling abroad, but it has also been life-changing in ways I’m still processing, and I know it will shape me for years to come.

From the moment I arrived in Ghana, I felt something shift inside of me. It was as if my spirit recognized a place I had never physically been before. Walking through the streets, engaging with the people, witnessing the culture firsthand, it was both humbling and empowering.

Ghana welcomed me with open arms, and in that embrace, I felt a deep sense of belonging. I stood where my ancestors once stood, where they met unthinkable hardships, but also where their resilience and strength became a foundation for generations to come at Cape Coast Castle. The castle was a former trade post for enslaved people. They traveled through the “Door of No Return,” where they were forced onto ships to come to America. I could still see the blood on the walls.

This was more than just a trip; it was a moment of awakening that reminded me of who I am, where I come from, and the power of those who came before me. One of the most profound lessons I took away from this experience is the power of unity—the way people come together, support one another, and create strength through community.

In Ghana, I saw an unbreakable bond between people and a shared understanding that no one is truly alone. Whether in markets, homes, or workplaces, there was always a spirit of togetherness, of collective progress. It made me reflect on my own life, my own journey, and the importance of lifting others as I continue to rise. We are not meant to walk through life alone, and seeing that sense of unity in action has inspired me to be more intentional about promoting that same spirit in everything I do.

This journey also reinforced the value of never giving up. There have been moments in my life when I have questioned whether I was strong enough, whether I was capable, whether my dreams were truly possible. Ghana reminded me that resilience is in my DNA and that the strength and perseverance of my ancestors is within me. Challenges will come, but we are built to withstand them. We are meant to push forward, to continue striving, to never let circumstances define our future.

I will always carry the lessons of Ghana in my heart. I have a renewed sense of purpose, a greater appreciation for the interconnectedness of our histories, and a commitment to ensuring that the spirit of unity, perseverance, and cultural pride lives on in all that I do. I am currently studying early childhood education at Malcolm X. I strive to start a daycare in my home and serve as a director of a childcare center. I plan to use the wisdom and gratitude born from this trip to begin the next chapter of my life.

I also truly appreciate my professors for believing in me, guiding me, and encouraging me to embrace the unknown with curiosity and courage. I am a living example of the impact that your commitment makes. This journey has expanded my mind, nourished my spirit, and strengthened my resolve to create meaningful change wherever I go.

-Donisha Stewart, Malcolm X College