BOR – Back to Our Roots
Recap of 2024
For the first time, AYCO successfully organized a life-changing 19-day trip to Nairobi, Kenya. Eight students, accompanied by four staff members, participated in an enriching cultural immersion experience that included visits to orphanages, a safari, meetings with prominent business and political leaders, and tours of three of Africa's largest refugee camps—Dadaba, Ifo, and Hagadera.
For some students, the trip was deeply personal, as they were able to reconnect with family members they had never met due to displacement caused by the war in Somalia. Three students reunited with close relatives such as grandmothers and aunts for the first time. These encounters provided firsthand insights into the harsh realities of displacement, resilience, and the importance of community support.
Thank you for your support!
How Your Support Was Used
| Hotel/Lodging | 5 Rooms, $100 Per Night | 12 Night Stay |
| Food | $40 Per Day * 20 People 13 Days | Restaurants $40/day per person |
| Travel | 20 People * $1500 Ticket Cost | Flights |
| Transportation | $15 Per Person, 20 people * 12 Days | Taxis/In-City Travel |
2025 Sponsorship Packages
A Journey of Cultural Discovery - Back to Our Roots:
AYCO Empowering African Immigrant Students Through Cultural Exploration
Imagine a group of young African immigrant students, their eyes wide with wonder and curiosity, embarking on a transformative journey to their ancestral lands. This is not merely a trip; it is an exploration of roots, an immersion into a rich tapestry of traditions, and a profound connection to a heritage that has shaped their identities. These students, hailing from diverse corners of the African continent, carry within them a wealth of experiences and perspectives. Yet, their shared identity as African immigrants binds them together, creating a unique bond that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries.
About the Program
AYCO believes that all students, regardless of socioeconomic background, deserve transformative educational experiences. Back to Our Roots empowers students to reach their full potential by combining personal growth, cultural immersion, and community engagement.
The Power of Your Contribution
Your generous contribution to this cultural trip will not only empower these students but also enrich the tapestry of our society. By investing in their cultural exploration, you are investing in their future, their success, and their ability to become pillars of our community.
Imagine the impact your contribution can make:
- The spark in their eyes as they witness the grandeur of villages and the serenity of sprawling savannas.
- The pride they radiate as they participate in traditional ceremonies and engage with their ancestral communities and learning institutions
- The newfound confidence they exude as they share their cultural insights with others, fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.
Your contribution, no matter how big or small, will make a world of difference in the lives of these students.
Join us on this transformative journey as we empower African immigrant students to embrace their heritage, cultivate a global perspective, and become the leaders of tomorrow.
Together, we can make a lasting impact on their lives and the world around us.
Student Biographies
Meet the students who applied to take part in our Back to Our Roots program. They will be traveling with us to Africa and exploring their ancestral heritage.
Shuaib D.
Shuaib is a Portland State University freshman majoring in data science. He has maintained a stellar 3.5 GPA throughout his first year of college. Shuaib's journey with AYCO began in 2013 when he initially participated in basketball tournaments, which ignited a deep passion for community involvement. Over the years, he has actively engaged in AYCO's basketball league, tournaments, and Youth Leadership Internship, demonstrating his commitment to personal growth and community development. Outside of his academic and extracurricular pursuits, Shuaib enjoys playing basketball, spending time with friends, and exploring the outdoors.
Bisharo A.
Bisharo, a sophomore, is one of the most inspiring individuals you'll encounter. Despite her young age, she has achieved remarkable accomplishments, actively participating in programs and initiatives at AYCO and school. From the Girls Group and Youth Leadership Internship to AYCO's advocacy cohort team and youth sports, Bisharo plays a role in everything happening at AYCO and beyond. In addition to her academic pursuits and community involvement, she is a talented artist and an avid advocate for change.
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Abdinajib M.
Abdinajib, a sophomore at Oregon State University, is studying biology with the aspiration of pursuing a career in radiology. Maintaining a GPA of 3.60 and above while tackling challenging coursework, Abdinajib's commitment to academic excellence is commendable. With a longstanding involvement in AYCO, including participation in the basketball league, tournaments, health fairs, youth leadership programs, and internships, Abdinajib's passion for community service is deeply ingrained, and inspired by his mother's legacy of community engagement, Abdinajib also enjoys playing basketball, exploring the outdoors, and acquiring new skills..
Nati K.
Nati, a junior at Parkrose High School, aspires to attend Ivy League schools to pursue a career in aerospace engineering. With a stellar GPA of 4.0, Nati's dedication to academic excellence is evident. Having immigrated to America at a young age, Nati faced initial cultural challenges but remains proud of his heritage and religion. Actively involved in AYCO events and extracurricular activities at school, Nati is a leadership class member, varsity soccer team captain, and active participant in the East African club. His commitment to personal growth and community engagement is unwavering.
Suhel M.
Suhel, known for his outgoing personality and ever-present smile, has been actively involved in AYCO for the past three years. From participating in basketball tournaments to contributing to community engagement and youth leadership programs, Suhel's journey at AYCO has been transformative. A dedicated student-athlete involved in multiple sports throughout the academic year, Suhel is also a valued Ida B. Wells Muslim Student Association member. Passionate about advocating for marginalized voices, Suhel consistently prioritizes the needs of others and actively engages in community initiatives.
Bethel Y.
Bethel, a recent graduate from McDaniel High School, is set to attend Portland State University this fall to pursue a degree in nursing. Her passion for healthcare reflects her deep commitment to service and helping others. Bethel has been actively involved with AYCO for several years, participating in various programs. Among them, the Back to Our Roots (BOR) program has profoundly impacted her, shaping her perspective on cultural identity and community engagement. Beyond her academic goals, Bethel is a dedicated community member who strives to empower others and make a positive difference in the lives of those around her.
Suleka Y.
Suleka, a student at Portland Community College, brings a warm and caring presence to AYCO’s programs. While her involvement has been less frequent, she greatly enjoys participating in AYCO’s events and activities. Known for her exceptional character and deep compassion for others, Suleka’s kindness and thoughtfulness leave a positive impact on everyone she encounters.
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Ahmed M.
Ahmed, a junior at David Douglas High School, has been an active member of AYCO for several years. Known for his passion for community service and helping others, Ahmed has participated in various AYCO programs, including youth basketball, leadership initiatives, and volunteering efforts. His dedication to supporting his community and uplifting those around him is evident in his enthusiastic involvement in these activities. Ahmed's journey at AYCO reflects his commitment to personal growth and making a meaningful impact in the lives of others.
Student Reflections
Our students returned from the trip on August 24th, and during their reunion a week later, they submitted reflections that highlight the profound impact of the journey.
It is important to note that 100% of the students expressed a meaningful connection to their heritage and education as a result of the trip, and all of them stated they would participate in the program again due to its impact on their lives.
Back to Our Roots Application Form
Back to Our Roots aims to create a lasting legacy, resonating in the lives of participating students and contributing to positive change in their communities and beyond.
Applications for 2024 are closed now.