Sankofa Wellness began as a personal calling — a return to the ancestral practices that have nourished, healed, and sustained our people for generations. Born at the intersection of community, family, and justice, this work is rooted in lived experience and a deep belief in collective care.
As a parent, partner, farmer, and advocate, I’ve witnessed the disconnection so many of us feel from the land, from our bodies, and from each other. Sankofa Wellness is a response to that disconnection — a commitment to reclaiming what was lost, honoring what still lives in us, and creating new pathways forward.
This is more than a project — it’s a return home. A return to what is sacred, intuitive, and ours.
Our Story
Sankofa Wellness was born from the deep understanding that true healing comes from looking back to move forward. Rooted in ancestral wisdom, our journey began with a desire to reclaim holistic wellness practices that have sustained generations. Recognizing the disconnection modern society has created from the land, community, and self, we seek to restore these vital connections.
Our founder, Makeda Marshal-NeSmith, brings over a decade of experience as a city planner and wellness advocate. Her work has centered on equitable community development, housing justice, and public health—informing the foundation of Sankofa Wellness. With formal training in city and regional planning, alongside continued education in birth justice and trauma-informed care, Makeda leads with a deep understanding of how systems impact everyday wellness. She has also worked as a farm hand, where she deepened her connection to land stewardship and sustainable growing practices. Her lived and professional experiences have led her to present and explore the intersection of farming and urban living—building bridges between rural traditions and city life. Her commitment to building safe, nourishing, and connected spaces shows up in every offering—from prenatal care and postpartum support to food justice education and disaster preparedness. Sankofa Wellness is more than an organization; it is a movement towards collective healing, honoring the past while building a more just and sustainable future.
Our Vision
We envision a world where every person has access to the knowledge, resources, and community support necessary to thrive. A world where food systems are just, birth is safe and empowering for all, and communities are prepared and resilient in the face of challenges. Sankofa Wellness is committed to dismantling systemic barriers to wellness and co-creating a future that honors our past while fostering sustainable, healing-centered solutions.
Our Values
Our values are the foundation of all that we do. They reflect the heart of Sankofa Wellness—where legacy meets vision, and where healing is rooted in justice, community, and deep cultural knowing. These principles guide our decisions, our partnerships, and the ways we show up for ourselves and each other.
Ancestral Wisdom
We honor the traditions and practices of our ancestors, using them as a guide to reclaim wellness and build stronger communities.
Equity & Justice
We are committed to dismantling systemic barriers that prevent access to holistic wellness, food sovereignty, and birth justice.
Community Empowerment
We believe that true wellness is collective and rooted in mutual support, education, and shared knowledge.
Sustainability & Connection to Land
We advocate for regenerative practices that restore our relationship with the land, ensuring nourishment for generations to come.
Resilience & Preparedness
We equip communities with the resources and strategies needed to navigate crises and sustain long-term well-being.
Partner With Us
Join us in building a future where wellness, justice, and resilience are accessible to all. Whether you are an organization, practitioner, or community member, we welcome collaborations that align with our mission. Together, we can strengthen food sovereignty, advocate for birthing justice, and enhance community preparedness. Let’s create lasting impact—connect with us today! Join us for one of our community-rooted events where we come together to learn, heal, and grow in alignment with our shared values.
At Sankofa Wellness, we honor the wisdom of our ancestors to shape a future where wellness is accessible, holistic, and just. Join us in our mission to reclaim and nurture the health of our people and communities.
Sankofa Community Welness 