BTAC ARCHIVES 2024
It truly takes a village!
I am grateful for the unwavering support from both my BTAC Circle of Friends and the divine guidance of God, which enables us to work together and positively impact the lives of over 270 children in the Ashanti Region of Ghana on a daily basis. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the BTAC Board of Directors and Advisors for their continuous dedication and wisdom.
To all of you reading this message, your emotional and financial support has been instrumental in our ability to make a difference. It is because of each and every one of you that we can continue our mission. Thank you for being an integral part of this journey.
The night sky was a beautiful backdrop as behind-the-scenes celebrities came together to give back to the community.
They generously shared their knowledge, interacted with the children, and provided guidance for their leadership development. The Real Talk Sistah Circle sessions that kicked off in 2024 were truly impactful.
The support from the BTAC Circle of Friends has been incredible, and we are thankful to all our supporters who have encouraged their friends to give back during their time in Ghana.
We are truly inspired by the dedication and generosity of these behind-the-scenes celebrities. Their mentorship and contributions are making a significant impact on the lives of the children they are reaching. The BTAC Circle of Friends is grateful for their presence and the opportunities they have created for our children.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who made this event possible. We are excited to see the continued growth and success of our children as they embark on their own creative journeys.
In the heart of February
BTAC (Bridge to Africa Connection) eagerly anticipates a month filled with cultural celebration and enlightenment. The focus extends beyond the richness of Ghana’s chocolate and cocoa to the profound journey of identity for Africans and those in the diaspora. Children in Ghana engage in a jump rope contest, embracing their Ashanti heritage with love and respect. BTAC passionately intertwines African-American studies with local Californian history, emphasizing the importance of preserving culture and history. KHLOETINES Day symbolizes unity, gratitude, and purpose, as BTAC continues to instill leadership principles in the younger generation. This February is a testament to the enduring commitment to heritage and self-worth.
Greetings from Bridge to Africa Connection!
As we march into the new month, we are filled with confidence that our mission to focus on education in 2024 is being fulfilled. This Women’s Month, we are particularly proud to emphasize women and girl health, hygiene, and body awareness in Ghana. Our dedication to teaching young girls how to become empowered women is a source of immense pride for us.
March holds special significance for Ghana as it marks the celebration of Independence Day on March 6th. This historic day commemorates Ghana’s liberation from British colonial rule in 1957, a milestone led by Kwame Nkrumah. It symbolizes our nation’s journey towards sovereignty and freedom.
Read more
IBWPPI partner with BTAC to focus on Black Maternal Health
BTAC and “SASHA B” proudly announced the launch of “STAR ZONE: The Playground” at the State Experimental
Kindergarten School in Kumasi, Ghana. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to 12-year-old Natasha Barnor of Maryland, USA, for her generous donation, which allowed us to renovate the playground and provide a safe and enjoyable play area for the kindergarten children at this school.
BTAC donated 2 Full Basketball Hoop to Kumasi Technical Institute
Thanks to Brother Jay from Los Angeles, California who donated these basket ball hoops to enhance the physical education department of the school!
BTAC and “SASHA B” proudly announced the launch of “STAR ZONE: The Playground” at the State Experimental
Kindergarten School in Kumasi, Ghana. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to 12-year-old Natasha Barnor of Maryland, USA, for her generous donation, which allowed us to renovate the playground and provide a safe and enjoyable play area for the kindergarten children at this school.
BTAC Circle of Friends changing the lives of students in the Ashanti Region!
H.E. Andrew A D Wilson, High Commissioner of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas generously donated several bicycles, puzzles, and clocks to help children in the Ashanti Region of Ghana.@
The bicycles will assist those in faraway villages in getting to school on time, while the clocks will aid lower primary students in learning and the puzzles will help develop critical thinking skills.
These items were donated to Feyiase R/C Primary A, Atasemanso R/C Primary, and State Experimental KG. The children and teachers are immensely grateful for this kind gesture.
REAL TALK!
Dr. Denise Davis-Maye and my Soror Dr. Tamara Bertrand Jones pouring into a few of the BTAC scholars in Junior High School to help them have their best life❤
Sharing & Caring!
My dear Sisterfriends Dr. Denise Davis-Maye and Soror Dr. Tamara Bertrand Jones, spent 2 wonderful days in Kumasi with the children served by BTAC, helping them understand self-love and the beauty of dolls.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all of Denise & Tamara’s Circle of Friends who generously donated over 100 dolls to share with the children. They are truly grateful and appreciative. It’s truly amazing to share with others, because givers never lack!
Welcome to April at Bridge-To-Africa Connection! This month’s theme, “Reign of Increase and Joy,” heralds exciting learning opportunities.
Our scholars will delve into mastering small finances and discovering joy amidst scarcity. With a focus on savings, prudent spending, and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit, we’re empowering our community. Join us in celebrating educational milestones and expressing gratitude to our Circle of Friends. As we gear up to welcome visitors to Ghana in April, let’s make a tangible impact together. Participate in our Boots on the Ground fundraiser, where we’re collecting boots & bras for women farmers. Additionally, let’s embrace our heritage by cooking together. This month, let’s savor the flavors of Kelewele, a delightful Ghanaian dish, as we come together in unity and purpose. Together, we can create lasting change and elevate our community to new heights of prosperity and joy
Join us in supporting women and children farmers in Mampong Bunuso, Ghana, West Africa.
We’re collecting boots and gloves to empower these farmers as they cultivate their land and provide for their families. Your donation will not only protect them from harsh conditions but also symbolize solidarity and empowerment. Let’s ensure these hardworking individuals have the tools they need to thrive and contribute to their communities. Together, we can make a tangible difference in their lives and help build a brighter future for generations to come. Donate today and sow the seeds of change in Mampong Bunuso.
IBWPPI partner with BTAC to focus on Black Maternal Health
June is here, and BTAC is thrilled to kick off an exciting month of learning and growth!
This June, we’re gearing up to teach our children about financial literacy, cleanliness, and hygiene, along with enhancing their educational and reading skills. Our mission is to empower the children of Ghana with the tools they need to succeed through saving money, staying clean, and boosting their literacy. We can’t wait to see the incredible progress they make. Let’s dive into this month with enthusiasm and look forward to all the wonderful things June has in store!
BTAC supported “Girl Child Day” during MENSTRUAL HYGIENE WEEK at OSEI ADUTWUM SHS and BUNUSO
Primary &JHS in the Ashanti Region of Ghana Tuesday, May 28, 2024!
Thanks to the support from BTAC, the program was successful and memorable, with over 100 girls in the school receiving sanitary pads.
BTAC continues to change lives one child at a time.
*BTAC Welcomes July with Open Arms!*
Hello, Circle of Friends! 🎉
July is here, and we couldn’t be more excited to share this vibrant month with you. As we hit the midpoint of the year, we’re bursting with pride over the incredible strides our children have made. They’ve been diligent in their studies, wise with their savings, and blossoming into remarkable young individuals. Their hard work and growth are truly inspiring!
Summer is upon us, and with it comes a wave of amazing visitors who will join our ever-growing community. We’re ready to welcome each of you with open arms and big smiles. But let’s not forget—while hard work is important, so is having fun! We’re dedicating this month to striking that perfect balance and embracing the theme: “Building Our Foundation for a Joyous Future!”
Here’s what we have in store:
– *Fun-Filled Learning Sessions*: Engaging activities that make learning a joy.
– *Community Gatherings*: Barbecues, games, and picnics to strengthen our bonds
– **Creative Workshops
The BTAC & Team Grace SCRABBLE TOURNAMENT between students from Greater Atasemanso and Integrity Keeper’s School in ASUOYEBOAH was a successful and enriching educational experience for the students involved.
August is upon us, and with it comes an exciting chapter for the children of Bridge to Africa Connection in Kumasi and Heman in the Ashanti Region of Ghana.
This month, we embark on a powerful journey of growth and unity, focusing on the timeless principle of “iron sharpening iron.
“We are thrilled to announce three sets of special visitors from the diaspora, each bringing their unique perspectives and experiences to our community. Their presence is a beacon of hope and connection, reminding us of our shared roots and collective strength.Throughout August, our children will engage in three dynamic lunch-and-learn sessions. These gatherings are more than just meals; they are opportunities for our young minds to be inspired, challenged, and uplifted.
Read more
Every little bit helps! Thanks to the BTAC Circle of Friends for their donations and care for the children we serve!
2024 Graduation Success!
A heartfelt thank you to the BTAC circle of friends for your unwavering support in keeping children in school, enabling them to successfully graduate from Primary and Junior High School. The children are filled with gratitude, and we deeply appreciate your invaluable support.
Today is a historic day in the Village of Achiase Wansanbire in the Ashanti Region of Ghana as S.O.T.A. International Ltd.
and Dr. Kelli’s Stock Option Trading Academy commissioned the borehole at Achiase Wansanbire D/A Basic School in partnership with BTAC!
Several months ago, Dr. Kelli DuCloux had a divine intervention to install boreholes in schools across Africa, starting in Ghana, to provide clean water access to children in need. Achiase Wansanbire D/A Basic School is privileged to be the first school chosen for this project. The program, led by the Village Chief, was remarkable, and the CEO and Executive Director of S.O.T.A. were overwhelmed with emotions as this initial effort exceeded their expectations. Special thanks to the BTAC partners and team for their hard work in making this project a reality.
S.O.T.A. International Limited partnering with BTAC to change lives.
“What you do today affects seven generations into the future.” Dr. Kelli!
Believe, Pursue, Achieve impossible things!
Today, BTAC officially opened “The Johnson and Walker Computer Lab” at the Atasemanso R/C Primary School. We are grateful for the generous support of Daryl Walker, Tarita Hollingsworth Walker, Karen, and Ron Johnson, whose philanthropy has made it possible for us to bring a world-class computer lab to Kumasi.
BTAC believe that education is a powerful tool for change, and we are committed to empowering the children in this community to make a positive impact and thrive. Thank you to Bridge to Africa Connection, Inc. Circle of Friends for your support in this important endeavor.
*September is Here! (Ɛbɔ)*
Welcome to the month of Ɛbɔ, September! This is a time of new beginnings and boundless opportunities for the children we serve at Bridge-To-Africa Africa Connection. This month is going to be full of growth and development as we focus on three essential pillars to empower our young learners.
Read more
Akwaaba to October!
October 2024 is here, and at Bridge-To-Africa Connection (BTAC), we’re ready for a new season of Unbounded Change. We’re focusing on three powerful pillars: Personal Change, Physical Change, and Environmental Change—and we need to shift our mindset to grow in all areas. Here’s how:
1. Personal Change – This is about looking within and growing as individuals. We must learn from our past and adapt to our future. As the Akan proverb goes: “Woforo dua pa a, na yepia wo”—When you climb a good tree, you are given a push. Let’s make sure the trees we climb are the right ones, aligned with purpose and vision.
2. Physical Change – Our bodies are our vessels. It’s time we invest in them. From taking care of our health to practicing self-discipline, this pillar reminds us that change begins with action. We can’t make strides if we don’t have the strength to move.
3. Environmental Change – The world around us shapes us, but we also shape it. Whether it’s protecting our land or uplifting our community
Congratulations to the BTAC Cultural Dance Troop for achieving 2nd place👏🏾
The International Trends and Services Facet (IPC) of The Links Incorporated celebrated this year’s International Day of the Girl Child by showcasing the artistic expression of dance activism and advocacy focusing on the rights of girls and celebrating girls worldwide.
The BTAC girls in Kumasi were selected to participate by The Links Incorporated Inglewood Pacific (CA) Chapter. Special thanks to Carliss Richardson McGhee and Thelma for their support and sponsorship.
We are incredibly proud of the BTAC Dance Troop for their hard work and exceptional performance. A big thank you to our Circle of Friends for their support and encouragement that helped these girls excel. They have won $1,500, which will go towards their Senior High School Fund👏🏾
The Links Incorporated Pontchartrain Chapter (LA) is our HERO for changing lives at schools in Ashanti Region in 2024
The children supported by BTAC would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to The Links Incorporated – Pontchartrain Chapter in Louisiana, USA for generously providing 12 classrooms with “Curriculum in a Box” to serve over 700 children at the Atasemanso R/C Primary School.
Your contribution will have profound impact on the lives of both teachers and students at this school. Thanks to your support, teachers now have the necessary tools to educate, and the children will directly benefit from having proper learning materials. We are thrilled beyond words and sincerely thank you for this invaluable donation. Your generosity has made a lasting impact, and you will always hold a special place in our school community here in Kumasi, Ghana West Africa.
RENOVATION PROGRESS at Feyiase R/C Primary School “A”
In August 2024, Dr. Yvonne Reid, a member of the BTAC Circle of Friends, witnessed a video showing children fleeing from the classrooms during rainfall. Dr. Reid took immediate action by contributing funds to initiate the building renovations. The objective was to have the building ready for the children to use when the school reopened in September 2024 for the new academic year. The photos demonstrate the successful Phase 1 completion of the mission, allowing the students to utilize the renovated building. A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Yvonne Reid for positively impacting the lives of these children.
Feyiase R/C Primary School “A” is facing significant challenges with its 4-classroom block
which has deteriorated due to a lack of maintenance and the building’s age. Over the past two years, heavy rainfall has caused chaos, forcing children to flee from the classrooms. In many instances, the entire school has had to shut down, disrupting the students’ learning and sending them home prematurely. For a visual representation of the current state of the building, these pictures tell the story.
Kofi Atta Annan
Kofi Atta Annan was born April 8, 1938, into an elite family in Kumasi, Ghana, the son of a provincial governor and grandson of two tribal chiefs.
He shared his middle name Atta — “twin” in Ghana’s Akan language — with a twin sister, Efua. He became fluent in English, French and several African languages, attending an elite boarding school and the University of Science and Technology in Kumasi. He finished his undergraduate work in economics at Macalester College in St. Paul, Minnesota, in 1961. From there he went to Geneva, where he began his graduate studies in international affairs and launched his U.N. career.
November Message for the Circle of Friends: Bridge-To-Africa Connection
Building Our Future with Love and Responsibility
As we continue our journey, we are reminded that raising, mentoring, and leading requires more than just hands and minds—it calls for hearts devoted to the wellbeing of each child we support. Our BTAC family in Ghana strives to be a sanctuary, a place where education blossoms with the care and support of parents and mentors alike.
This month, in the spirit of African unity and gratitude, here are five small yet powerful ways we can nurture kindness together:
Read more