SOFERES Overview
Solidarity of Refugee Women for the Social Welfare (SOFERES) was founded in 2013 by a group of refugee women and girls in Dzaleka Refugee Camp, Malawi. As survivors of conflict, displacement, and gender-based violence (GBV), they united to support each other and address the hardships faced by refugee women. What began as small support groups and skill-sharing workshops grew into a structured organization focusing on livelihood and economic empowerment, education and leadership, GBV prevention, mitigation, and response, as well as sexual and reproductive health and rights. Despite challenges such as limited funding and recognition, SOFERES persisted, forming partnerships and expanding its impact. Today, it remains a beacon of hope, empowering women and girls to rebuild their lives with dignity.
Our Vision
We envision a world in which vulnerable women and girls have the opportunity and ability to control their lives and futures.
Our Mission
We empower and equip vulnerable women and girls with the skills, resources, and opportunities needed to achieve economic independence, improve their health and well-being, build self-confidence, advocate for their rights, and actively participate in decision-making processes that benefit themselves, their families, and their communities.
Our Core Values
At SOFERES, we are driven by the following core values:
- Integrity and Honesty: We uphold ethical standards in all that we do.
- Teamwork and Collaboration: We believe in working together to achieve shared goals.
- Mutual Respect: We foster an environment where everyone's voice is heard and valued.
- Fairness and Equity: We promote inclusivity and equal opportunities for all.
- Transparency and countability: We are committed to accountability in our actions and use of resources.
- Innovation and Continuous Learning: We constantly seek new ways to solve problems and improve our impact.
Our Impact
SOFERES has positively impacted the refugee community, benefiting over 5,000 women and girls through livelihood programs, 6,000 women in GBV prevention, and 2,500 girls in education. Additionally, 300 women gained leadership skills, 150 improved sexual and reproductive health knowledge, and 100% of women in income-generating activities achieved financial independence.
Our Partners
