Message from Nunu Ntshingila, International Board Chair

As I reflect on the past year, I am filled with gratitude for each one of you—our supporters, partners, colleagues, and program participants. Your unwavering commitment and belief in the power of women have made it possible for us to continue our critical work, even in the face of immense challenges. I am proud to serve as the new International Board Chair, and as we look back on 2024, I am inspired by what we have achieved together.

This past year has been one of resilience and collective action, as we stood by women in conflict-affected regions. Together, we have reached more women, expanded our programs, and deepened our impact.

The concept of creating a ripple effect is central to our mission. Small actions, when multiplied, can create lasting change. This ripple effect is reflected in the way we continue to scale our programs.

In 2024, we expanded our reach through strategic partnerships, which have allowed us to reach more women than ever before. Our ‘From Asking to Action’ consultation put women in charge of advocating for their rights, while our Change Agent Program has been adapted to allow more women to step into leadership roles within their communities. I am also delighted to announce that our first-ever class of adolescent girls graduated in Rwanda via a pilot program that is now being piloted in three additional countries —Nigeria, Iraq and Afghanistan. This program is an initiative that directly addresses the unique needs of young women. This new program is just one example of how we are continuously evolving our approach to meet the ever-changing needs of women and girls in conflict zones.

We’ve also strengthened our commitment to engaging more local partners. From Syria to Sudan, Ukraine to Myanmar, we have expanded our network of local partners to deliver vital support to women facing violence, displacement, and loss.

We’ve revised our governance structure to be truly international and rooted in the regions we serve and have started the search for our new CEO. Together, we are committed toleading the organization with integrity, transparency, and vision. I am grateful to our outgoing CEO Laurie Adams and our Co-Founder and outgoing Board Chair Amjad Atallah for their vision and leadership in transforming WfWI to more effectively serve women at the frontlines of conflict.

We also launched our Stand With Her Program in 2024, highlighting the power of sustained monthly giving. Your commitment, through programs like Stand With Her, allows us to provide consistent support to women survivors of war, creating a ripple effect of transformation that extends far beyond one-time donations.

As we look to the future, amid increasing global turmoil and uncertainty, we know that our work is far from over. There is still much to be done to ensure that women in conflict-affected regions have access to the tools and resources they need. But I am confident that, with your continued support, we have the power to create lasting change.

Your involvement, your generosity, and your belief in the potential of women are what fuel our mission. I encourage you to continue, or deepen, your engagement with Women for Women International. Every action you take, whether through financial support, participating in our campaigns or spreading the word, makes a difference in the lives of women and girls in conflict-affected regions.

Thank you for your continued solidarity. I am excited for what the future holds.

With optimism and gratitude,

Nunu Ntshingila, International Board Chair