I went to Ghana, West Africa, to learn to weave their traditional cloth, Kente. I never had a desire to go to Africa, outside of Egypt, but the challenge of learning a new style of weaving really appealed to me. I had no preconceived notions of what it would be like or would I be accepted, I just wanted to weave. I had no desire to get in touch with my "African roots" or pretend to understand the culture. I was fascinated with their weaving structures.
I didn't speak the language nor did I know the cultural quirks, but I felt compelled to go. It was almost like I was being drawn to this cloth. So, I packed my bags and went to the village of Adanwomasi in Ghana to become an Ashanti Master Weaver. This village is in the Ashanti region. Although I was trained in both the Ewe and the Ashanti style of weaving. The Ashanti style Kente is what one thinks of a "Kente Cloth."
This endeavor would prove challenging. First, women don't weave, period. I would have to convince the tribe to allow me to learn ALL of the techniques in weaving this cloth. Trust me, this was no easy feat. Some men of the tribe that were not happy about me learning and the women were appalled, but more about that later. Plus, I had to cross the language barrier. Most people speak a "broken English" but, I had to learn enough Twi to do my day to day tasks. I was required to stay there for 3 months in order receive a certification and the title "Ashanti Master Weaver."
I hope to share with you the joys, trials and tribulations I experienced while receiving my certification. Hopefully I can inspire you to step out of your comfort zone and try something new.
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