African (Adinkra) Symbol of the Month: Sankofa - the wisdom of learning from the past

Bôhten eyewear strives to improve sustainable living in Africa. To shed light on our African roots, we are introducing meaningful symbols from Ghana that focus on the importance of Ethics in the social environment. 

We wish to introduce to you the African Adinkra symbol called “Sankofa”. It is the perfect symbol to start the month of January and this new year. Sankofa is a symbol that means “Go back and get it”. According to adinkrasymbols.org it is “a symbol of the wisdom of learning from the past to build for the future.” It is said to be from the Akan proverb "Se wo were fi na wosan kofa a yenkyiri," which translates to “It is not taboo to go back for what you forgot (or left behind).”

There are the two Sankofa Symbols.

As you embark on another year of your life’s journey, we urge you to use this symbol and take some moments to reflect on the year past. Think about your actions, your habits, your thoughts and the lessons you learnt. How did they impact your life in 2022? They are what brought you to where you are today. And when you set your goals for 2023, use what you’ve learnt from the past year to help build the life you desire to in 2023. Whether it be in your business, your personal life or otherwise. 

“Go back and get it” and propel yourself forward in ways you never imagined. 

The Bôhten team wishes all those who celebrate a happy new year. Thank you for joining us on this journey and we can't wait for you to see what we have in store for you in 2023.

Adinkra are visual symbols, originally created by the Gyaman (Ashanti) people of Ghana and the Ivory Coast. The symbols hold a great deal of meaning and not only present the rich Akan culture, but serve to communicate deep truths, wisdom and knowledge using imagery. 

If you're curious to learn more about Adinkra symbols, you can find more about them here.