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Our StoryI (Dr. Martin) first thought of creating a tour group to bring people to Africa when I was in Nigeria conducting research in 2015-2016. I learned so much about myself through living with and talking to the people and I was embraced by the culture and the people in genuine ways. I experienced a love and support that was healing to me and changed the way that I view the world. I wanted other people, especially Black people, to have this opportunity as well.
One day I was travelling with my research assistant, Joseph Ayodokun, to do some oral history interviews and I told him about my vision. He told me of a historical town called Waasinmi that a local king created to welcome back formerly enslaved Africans. It was purposed to help them to heal and transition them back into society. The name means come and rest in Yoruba language. I thought that name encapsulated my vision for the organization. So, I created Waasinmi as a way to help people to reconnect with and develop a different perspective of Africa. I hope to help people see the beauty, ingenuity, diversity, endless opportunity, determination, and warmth that emanates from the continent and its people. I am building a multifaceted approach to reaching this goal through education and travel. |