What does Sankofa mean?

Sankofa is an Adinkra symbol from the Akan people of Ghana. The word is usually translated as "go back and fetch it". The idea behind it is that it is not wrong to go back for what you have forgotten: learn from the past so you can build the future.

It has two common forms. One is a bird with its feet facing forward and its head turned back, often holding an egg in its beak: moving ahead while looking back, carrying something precious from the past. The other is a stylised heart shape with curls, and you will see it on gates, jewellery and fabric.

They are visual symbols, each standing for an idea, a proverb or a value. Traditionally they were stamped onto cloth with carved calabash stamps and worn for their meaning. Today they appear in art, architecture and fashion all over the world.

Hector's is a Black-owned business, and Sankofa sums up something we care about: carrying our heritage forward into everyday life. Our Sankofa Freedom Pants are loose, baggy-boxer-style underwear with a gold Sankofa side print, comfortable enough for lounging, the beach or poolside too. Our wider Adinkra range uses designs inspired by the symbols.

It's one of our most meaningful gifts, especially for Black History Month in October, birthdays and Father's Day. You can shop online or see the range in person at our Mortlake salon.