Even though International Women’s Month may be behind us, we can still take a moment to reflect on the incredible stories of resilience, leadership, and equity that have inspired us. This year, we’ve celebrated the extraordinary contributions of refugee women – survivors, leaders, and changemakers who are transforming their communities despite unimaginable challenges.
Refugee women like Chantal Muhongayire, founder of the Wake Alpha Elimu Foundation, remind us of the power of resilience. After fleeing war and being abandoned by her husband, Chantal founded an organisation that supports refugee women and girls through education, economic resilience, and family planning. Her story is one of many, showcasing the strength and determination of refugee women who turn adversity into opportunity.
Yet, their journey is far from easy. Refugee women navigate displacement, economic hardship, and systemic barriers while leading their families and communities. Nyibol Racheal, who leads the Refugee Mental Health Network, shares:
“For many refugee women, leadership is born out of necessity. They carry immense burdens, especially when caring for children with disabilities.”
Consider this:
- The average cost of caring for a child with developmental disabilities in Uganda is $949 annually; a staggering amount for refugee families.
- Refugee women-led organisations receive less than 1% of global humanitarian funding, yet they are transforming lives every day.
Women’s Month reminded us beyond doubt that women can and should lead. Let’s move beyond celebration and take meaningful action by amplifying their voices, sharing their stories, and advocating for their inclusion in decision-making spaces. Their stories are powerful but often go unheard, and this must change.
Secondly, organisations like the Wake Alpha Elimu Foundation, the Refugee Mental Health Network, and women-led organisations under the Women for Women Collective Change profile exchange knowledge, skills, experiences, and best practices to support refugee women, girls, and their host communities in improving health, mental well-being, economic stability, and leadership skills. This collaborative approach strengthens resilience and expands opportunities for women to lead, earn, and thrive. By investing in these initiatives, we are not just supporting survival, we are supporting leadership and innovation.
Last but not least, by supporting refugee women, we are investing in the future of entire communities. Their leadership is a testament to the power of resilience and determination. Let’s carry their stories with us and continue to stand with them, every day.
Let’s commit to action. Let’s amplify, invest, and collaborate to ensure refugee women have the resources and opportunities they need to lead and thrive.
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