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About Us

Birthed from one educator's global experiences and deep compassion for young people. Sankofa Youth Educational Exchange Collaboration (SYEEC) was founded to bridge opportunity and understanding - locally and abroad. Moved by the realization that several of her former students had aged out of foster care without the support or guidance they needed, our Founder and Executive Director, Quan Abazie, transformed heartbreak into action.


Fueled by her passion and love for travel, cultural exchange, and mentoring youth, Quan envisioned SYEEC as a bridge between worlds - supporting youth in foster care in Columbus, Ohio and underserved youth in Ghana. Through educational programs, leadership development, mentorship, and global learning experiences, SYEEC helps young people gain the academic, life, and cultural skills necessary to thrive.


At SYEEC, we believe that exposure, connection, and empowerment can change a young person's trajectory. By combining education and cross-cultural collaboration, we aim to fill the gaps that too often leave foster youth and underserved youth behind - and create pathways toward purpose, confidence, and community.


Sankofa - Go back and get it. 
Ghanaian Twi Language


"I am grateful to walk in my purpose of being a mother to so many children that I did not birth from my womb."
- Quan Abazie MEd, MS, BS