My official African name was given to me at the naming ceremony hosted by a Queen in one of the regions of Ghana. I can hardly say much about the experience other than the simple fact that this was a true nose dive into the culture of the country. I felt welcomed and warmed and loved by everyone instantly!

Outside her home children play up and down the streets of their town yelling and giggling all day. As soon as they heard about our new names- it’s almost as if they already knew them- they started to call after you “Ama” “Ama” ! I was born on a Saturday so the first part of my name takes shape as Ama and the second part after Ghanaian royalty. There was a sweet gal in the crowd of children also with the same name as me and we quickly connected. It makes my heart happy to see so much love and peace in a community where everyone welcomes you with open arms. If only the entire world could be as joyous and charismatic as the people of Ghana.