U4C has tirelessly worked in many places around the world where humanity has suffered greatly. We are concerned about the well-being of all people, but especially about the traumatic circumstances confronting women and girls in extreme poverty. Women and girls are chronically and unfairly subjected to abuse and gender-based violence and lack of opportunity, especially those infected and affected by HIV. We have realized the most important underpinning of meaningful and sustainable change derives from personal resilience. Embracing optimism, elevating self-confidence, and acquiring critical information/skills are essential to personal and community resilience. These are core principles in empowering women, their families, and entire communities. Women affected and infected by HIV often feel abandoned by their families, friends, and communities – depriving them of their dignity, assistance, and capacity to support themselves.

In May 2022, we started a journey together with Women Arise for Positive Change (WAPC), Rotarians and Rotary Peace Fellows from the U.S., Europe and Kenya to empower hundreds of women infected and affected by HIV. The Program began with building the capacity of 20 women leaders, who were selected to lead the Self-Help Groups (SHGs). Their lives have been transformed forever after intense leadership, conflict resolution skills training and peace-building practical training. Together we are helping these women in banding to build personal and shared resilience – rediscovering their sense of personal worth and shared strength.

We asked each of them what they thought their role as leaders was and their answers inspired all of us!

We are seeing remarkable progress – the spirits, attitudes, and confidence of participants have grown in measurable ways, thanks to the role that leaders are playing, with the local and international teams’ guidance. This story is about women who are becoming peer leaders in support of this important initiative. Join us and support this transformational Program in Kenya!