ISA WALI Empowerment Initiative

Some visits carry a special significance.

We were delighted to welcome our Founder, Mrs. Maryam Uwais OON, to the Isa Wali Empowerment Initiative office recently.

As she walked through the premises, she reflected on how familiar it all felt. The building that now houses our work was once her family home, a place where she spent much of her childhood. Looking around, she remarked that it felt as though she had been there only yesterday.

It was a reminder that places can hold both memories and purpose.

Today, the same space serves as a hub for empowerment, learning, and opportunity, continuing a legacy inspired by Imam Isa Wali's vision and values. Seeing that connection between past and present was a meaningful moment for our team.

We are grateful for the visit, the reflections shared, and the opportunity to continue building on a foundation laid by those who believed deeply in the power of education, service, and community.

Empowerment

Many girls and young women and drop out of school early due to life circumstances, but their desire to learn and thrive never fades. Standard classrooms aren't always built for them to restart.

What would you do to help a young woman in your community find a second chance at education and financial independence?

what you'll do in the comments!

From classrooms to community safe spaces, our Executive Director, Mrs. Amina Hanga, spent time with the girls at the heart of our work ✨️

Alongside the IWEI team, she engaged directly with scholars and mentees across our programmes, reflecting on their progress and lived experiences.

The visit began at one of our partner schools, where scholars supported by the Jean Herskovits Foundation shared their academic journeys and growth. Mrs. Hanga also met with school leadership to discuss continued support and development.

From there, she moved to one of our community safe spaces, joining a live learning session and sitting with the girls as they engaged in class. She later offered encouragement to both learners and the mentors guiding them.

Across both spaces, the focus remained the same. Ensuring every girl has consistent, supportive pathways to learn, grow, and thrive.

These on the ground engagements continue to shape how we strengthen our programmes and respond to the needs of the girls we serve.