A future where African women live with dignity, equality and opportunity
We want every woman to be able to make informed choices, exercise her rights, lead with confidence and shape the decisions that affect her life and community.
About AWEF
African Women-Led. Rooted in Community.
Shaped by lived experience and working alongside African women, refugees, migrants and families since 2006.
Our Identity and Origin
We began by listening
African Women's Empowerment Forum was founded in Nottingham in 2006 by African women who understood the realities facing women in their communities. What began as grassroots action has grown into a trusted women-led organisation offering practical support, connection, knowledge and advocacy.
We recognise that a woman's wellbeing is shaped by many connected parts of life: rights, health, family, safety, housing, education, employment, confidence and belonging. That is why our approach supports the whole woman while working towards stronger communities and fairer systems.
Educate a woman. Empower a nation.
Support the woman. Strengthen the community. Influence the system.
We provide practical, culturally responsive support; build skills and leadership; and turn lived experience into evidence that can improve services, policy and practice.
What Grounds Our Work
Leadership, experience and rights
African Women-Led
AWEF is led by women with close knowledge of the communities we serve. This creates trust, cultural understanding and accountability.
Lived Experience
Women's direct experience is expertise. It helps us identify what is not working, design relevant responses and advocate for meaningful change.
Rights, Equality and Dignity
Every woman deserves to be treated fairly, understand her rights and reach services without discrimination, shame or unnecessary barriers.
Our Values
The standards we hold ourselves to
- DignityEvery woman is treated with respect.
- EqualityWe challenge barriers and unfair treatment.
- EmpowermentWomen build knowledge, choice and confidence.
- Lived ExperienceWomen help shape the response.
- InclusionDifference is welcomed and valued.
- JusticeRights must be meaningful in everyday life.
- PartnershipLasting change requires shared effort.
- IntegrityWe act responsibly and transparently.
Our Approach
Change at three connected levels
We respond to immediate needs while building the conditions for longer-term progress.
Practical support and confidence
Information, wellbeing, skills and advocacy help each woman make informed decisions and move forward.
Connection and collective voice
Peer support, leadership and community participation reduce isolation and strengthen belonging.
Evidence and influence
Recurring experiences become insight that can improve services, policy, practice and access.
20
Years of Community Action
Rooted locally, influencing more widely
For two decades AWEF has worked beside women through changing needs and circumstances. We remain rooted in Nottingham while supporting communities, developing partnerships and contributing a distinctive African women-led voice to wider conversations.
Leadership
Women leading change
Our leadership brings together lived experience, professional knowledge and a commitment to the women and families AWEF serves.
Our Leadership
African Women's Empowerment Forum
“I love the children we serve, and when love is the motivation, there is nothing that can't be achieved.”
— Isabelle McKenzie, CEO & President