As part of their Year of Return, the Association of Black Woman Attorneys (ABWA), New York recently celebrated their week-long retreat in Ghana.

The delegation took the opportunity not to only visit historical sites but also bonded with a selection of female Ghanaian lawyers at a cocktail event.

The event took place at the Labadi Beach Hotel under the auspices of the Institute of International Affairs, ABWA’s partners in Ghana. 

“It is an honour to be able to have undertaken this trip. For many members of ABWA, this is a pilgrimage to connect with our heritage,” Judge Machelle Sweeting of the New York City Civil Court, has said.

Present at the event was Member of Parliament and Ranking Member of the Committee on Foreign Affairs in Ghana’s Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwah, who emphasised the significance of the event as a ‘SANKOFA’ welcome for the ABWA team.

“Ghana in the last few decades has rolled out many initiatives including PANAFEST and visa-free initiatives to spur a culture of return and belonging to Africa from the diaspora.”

Judge Machelle Sweeting and Okudzeto Ablakwah

“The Year of Return continues in this mould and I am excited at tonight’s success and look forward to welcoming ABWA severally in the years to come,” he added.

Senior Managing Partner of Apex Law Consult, Sheila Minka Premo, stated her outfit is ever ready to collaborate with ABWA New York in furthering their agenda of lifting women up.

Tanya Blocker (President  2017 - 2019 Association of Black Women Attorneys (ABWA) National Bar Association (NBA) - Legislative Chair) and Sheila Minka-Premo

She urged ABWA’s delegation to not hesitate to reach when they are in Ghana again.

Mr Tawia Akyea and Judge Edwina Richardson

“It is a delight to see so many women attorneys gathered in one place and I believe your trip has been as impactful for you as you envisaged,” Sheila Minka Premo added.

ABWA NY team member, Leslie Kenny waving the flag of Ghana.

The night ended with a naming ceremony, coordinated by Madam Abigail Nti, administrative Executive at GhIIA. This saw all members of the ABWA team being conferred with Ghanaian names, to mark their return home.

Members of ABWA NY at their mixer with Ghanaian female attorneys