Who We Are
Association for Women Empowerment Cameroon (AWEC) is a non-governmental organization (NGO) working towards Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- No Poverty (SDG 1)
- Zero Hunger (SDG 2)
- Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3)
- Gender Equality (SDG 5)
- Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8)
- Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10)
- Climate Action in Cameroon (SDG 13)
AWEC recognizes the need for a locally driven approach to empower vulnerable groups, particularly women and young girls. Founded by a human rights activist, they promote and protect human rights by providing relevant resources and mobilizing communities.
Their focus areas align with empowering women to achieve SDGs:
- Rapid income-generating activities: This tackles SDGs 1,2, 8, and 13 by equipping women with skills and resources to generate income and achieve financial independence.
- Children and vulnerable groups’ protection: This aligns with SDG 5.1 (ending discrimination against women and girls) by ensuring a safe environment for all.
- Improving mental health: This supports SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by addressing the mental health needs of women, often disproportionately affected by social and economic challenges.
- Prospering communities: Empowering women strengthens families and communities, contributing to SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
AWEC’s rights-based approach enables individuals, institutions, and communities to lead equally in solving social, political, economic, and environmental problems. This fosters sustainable development that is inclusive and empowers women to be key agents of change.
Our Mission
AWEC empowers vulnerable groups, particularly women and young girls, in Cameroon through a locally driven, rights-based approach. We equip them with resources and skills to achieve financial independence, improve mental health, and advocate for their rights. These fosters thriving communities that contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future (aligned with SDGs 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 10, and 13).
Our Vision
AWEC envisions a Cameroon where women are empowered leaders, driving social, political, economic, and environmental progress. We see thriving communities free from poverty, hunger, and discrimination, where all individuals can contribute and reach their full potential.
Our Values
Our values are the very DNA of AWEC. They infuse every interaction, from empowering communities to forging partnerships. They are the compass guiding our strategy, the unwavering light on our path, and the bedrock that holds us strong even in the face of adversity.
Accountability:
AWEC takes responsibility for its actions and results. We are committed to measuring the impact of our activities and are answerable to our beneficiaries, donors, and the wider community.
Commitment:
Our team is dedicated to the cause of women’s empowerment. Our unwavering commitment fuels our long-term vision for a more equitable Cameroon. Our dedication inspires stakeholders and ensures a continued fight for gender equality.
Transparency:
We believe that open communication and information-sharing build trust with donors and beneficiaries. Allowing everyone to see the positive change AWEC creates fosters collaboration and encourages open dialogue for improvement.
Sustainability:
Our programs are designed for long-term impact. We equip women and girls with skills and resources that enable them to be self-sufficient and continue contributing to their communities even after our direct involvement.
Community Members
Our Founder
2016 was a year that shattered me. Pregnant with twins, my dreams of a growing family were suffocated by a harsh reality – economic dependence on my spouse. This lack of empowerment turned my home into a battleground, a place not of love, but of gender-based violence. The emotional toll was immense. The depression that followed stole not just my spirit, but the lives I carried within me.
Losing those twins wasn’t just a personal tragedy, it ignited a fire within me. No woman, no young girl, deserved to face what I had. The need to empower other women and girls, to equip them with the tools to build a safe and secure future for themselves and their families, became my calling.
The Association of Women Empowerment Cameroon (AWEC) wasn’t born out of theory, it was born from the crucible of my own experience. It’s a testament to the strength we find in each other, a promise that no woman should ever walk this path alone. Together, we rise. Together, we build a future where every woman has the power to shape her destiny.