Born from lived experience in Budaka District, Eastern Uganda.
Zarephath Women's Network was founded in 2023 in response to the everyday realities faced by women, girls, and young people in rural communities. Our founder, who grew up and raised a family in Budaka, witnessed firsthand the challenges that continue to affect women and girls — from limited participation in decision-making and unequal access to opportunities, to harmful social norms that silence voices and restrict potential.
These experiences revealed a common reality: many women and young people lacked safe, supportive spaces where they could speak, organize, lead, and influence decisions that shape their lives and communities.
Driven by resilience and a deep commitment to social justice, ZWN was established to create those spaces and amplify voices that are too often unheard.
"Zarephath Women's Network is more than an organization — it is a movement rooted in community, driven by hope, and committed to building a more just, inclusive, and equitable future for all."
Founded — 2023What began as a response to local challenges has grown into a community-driven movement advancing gender equality, youth empowerment, leadership development, child wellbeing, and social inclusion.
Community ReachSince founding, ZWN has reached and supported more than 200 women, children, and young people across Budaka District through nutrition support, leadership training, mentorship, and advocacy.
PartnershipsWe work closely with women, men, youth groups, schools, health facilities, community leaders, and development partners to challenge harmful gender norms and strengthen community resilience.
Today & BeyondZWN continues to champion grassroots solutions and amplify the voices of rural women and young people whose experiences are often underrepresented in policy and development conversations.
Our Vision for the FutureA society where girls complete their education, women lead as equal partners, young people shape their futures, and every individual thrives regardless of gender, age, disability, or socioeconomic status.