PWHS celebrates inaugural Kente Stole Ceremony
PWHS celebrates inaugural Kente Stole Ceremony
Members of the Black Cultural Awareness Club (BCA) at Plymouth Whitemarsh High School celebrated the Class of 2026 by hosting the school's inaugural Kente Stole Ceremony, an event recognizing academic achievement, cultural heritage, and the journey ahead for graduating seniors.
Click here to watch a video of the ceremony on YouTube!
“This event marks a significant milestone in our school’s history, celebrating not only the achievements of our students, but also the rich cultural heritage the Kente stole represents,” said Dr. Melissa Figueroa-Douglas, Colonial School District Equity and Advancement Officer. “The Kente stole is a symbol of accomplishment, resilience, and the journey of lifelong learning.”
The evening featured remarks from Plymouth Whitemarsh High School alumni and current educators Courtland Jackson, Class of 2008 and a teacher at Conshohocken Elementary School, and Christopher Jackson, Class of 2008 and a school counselor at PWHS. They reflected on the role the Black Cultural Awareness Club, Plymouth Whitemarsh High School, and the Colonial School District community have played in creating a sense of belonging and family.
Class of 2021 graduate Amira Harris, who will begin pursuing her doctorate degree at Howard University this fall, shared how her experience at Clark Atlanta University, a Historically Black College or University (HBCU), helped shape her personal growth.
“I will always advocate for students to attend college because it’s important to see the world and experience something beyond the environment you grew up in,” Harris said. “We go to college for an education, but college offers much more than academics. Put yourself out there, try new things, and try to meet people because you never know who or what is waiting for you.”
The ceremony’s keynote speaker, Mestre Kamau Blakney, explored the historical significance of Kente cloth and the dedication required to master the weaving traditions of Ghana. He connected those lessons to his own path toward becoming a master of Capoeira Angola, an African-Brazilian martial art.
“You’re actually just getting started with your experience and your stories and with the knowledge you’re going to gain,” Blakney told the students. “I want you to let this ceremony spark in you a level of pride that never quits when obstacles arrive.”
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Kente stoles. The members of the Class of 2026 were called to the front of the room and were joined by a family member, elder, or friend who placed the stole around their shoulders. Families recited a mantra expressing their support and hopes for the graduates’ futures, while the scholars responded with a pledge recognizing the love, knowledge, and strength they will carry into the next chapter.
PWHS Principal Dr. Jason Bacani closed the ceremony with words of encouragement as graduation day approaches.
“The Kente cloth symbolizes history, excellence, leadership, and pride,” Dr. Bacani said. “As you walk across the graduation stage in about a week and you head into your future, remember that you carry all of those things with you. Stay connected to your roots as you’re pursuing your dreams.”
The BCA Club is looking forward to hosting the Kente Stole Ceremony as an annual tradition at Plymouth Whitemarsh High School.
