Orijin, derived from the Haitian Creole word for "origin," embodies our profound mission. With this project, we aim to unveil the splendor of the African continent to Afro descendants, erasing the disparity in travel access for our youth and nurturing a crucial facet of self-actualization and cultural immersion. Moreover, we aspire to provide young high school graduates identifying as Afro-descendants with a unique opportunity to return to their ancestral homeland, allowing them to undergo a profoundly enriching growth experience.
Our decision to establish this initiative in Rwanda stems from its status as a beacon of resilience, a testament to the human capacity to triumph and flourish. We are set to embark on this transformative journey with our inaugural group of young adults in 2026.
The Orijin Project's core mission is to empower a new generation of connected, dedicated, and inspired young Afro-descendant adults, aged 18-20. The Orijin Foundation is committed to shaping a brighter future for these individuals and the broader global Pan African community. Our Fellows will engage in a 10 to 15-day program where they will receive unwavering encouragement and support as they work towards their personal and professional aspirations. Through immersive experiences, they will be introduced to a myriad of activities that will enrich their cultural and personal horizons.
Rwanda, our chosen launchpad, boasts a spectrum of cutting-edge companies, socially conscious organizations, esteemed educational institutions, and warm communities ready to embrace these young adults during their stay. Our vision is for them to establish enduring connections with both the people and the continent.
Consider this project as the ultimate high school graduation gift, a transformative journey that will equip our youth with invaluable life experiences as they begin their adventures in this fascinating thing called life!
The applicant identifies as Afro-descendant from the BIPOC community and is between the ages of 18 and 20 years old.
The applicant has not travelled to Africa in the past 10 years, preferably has never traveled abroad (specifically Africa).
The applicant must have completed their high school and obtain their diploma or GED. Application can be submitted during the last year of high school, but a contestant can only be approved by providing proof of high school completion.
The applicant has to be an active volunteer with Orijin Foundation and participate in the various activities of the organization for at least 10 months prior to travel date.
A modest registration fee will serve as a symbolic deposit from the applicants.
We anticipate opening the application process in January 2024. Stay tuned!
It is long overdue to consider visiting Africa as a return home... Discover how beautiful and rich this continent is. Rwanda has become our favorite destination and we return periodically. By taking the journey with us, you will contribute in helping operations for The Orijin Project and assure that our youth are offered the same opportunities of international travels as others.
You will also fall in love with the land of your ancestors!
Help them reach for the sky.! Be an active part in creating opportunities for our youth.
Statistics show how beneficial international travels can be in the development and self actualization of young adults. Give our youth that head start in versatility and opportunity.
Make a donation to Orijin Foundation and specify that you want your contribution to go to The Orijin Project.
Traveling with a purpose; 360! We want to offer the experience of connection. Connection with the continent that is the known Motherland to many, but experienced by few. We want to reverse the steam and offer unforgettable memories of Africa. Micah went with us in May 2023 and is returning soon. Mission accomplished!
This experience is engraved in my heart forever! Thank you for trusting us and taking the plunge in this adventure and blessing our organization with your participation. A future high school graduate thanks you! Memories to last a lifetime!
Music: Bigtime by Yvan Buravan
Orijin Foundation, Inc. is a registered nonprofit organization in the state of Florida. Orijin Foundation, Inc. is a federally recognized 501c3 tax-exempt nonprofit organization. As such, donation are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law. IRS.EIN: 87-1120918
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Fight to end educational, cultural, and health disparities. Be a part of this movement. It is bigger than the individual! We are the collective!