Reflecting on a Transformative 2024 for AWAFN

By Theresa Ssengaga (Founder, Past President, Programs Manager - African Women’s and Families Network) and Michael Muleme (Interim Board member - African Women’s and Families Network)

As 2024 draws to a close, the African Women’s and Families Network (AWAFN) proudly reflects on a year of growth, collaboration, and impact. Through strategic planning and meaningful partnerships, we have laid a strong foundation for transformative change.​

A Heartfelt Thanks to Our Partners

Our achievements this year would not have been possible without the support of our incredible partners:

• Dr. Bruce Wong, CEO of Foot Solutions

• Axign Medical

• Carers Victoria

• Life Saving Victoria

• MiCare Ltd

• Australian Multicultural Community Services (AMCS)

• Alfred Health Carers Services

• Uganda the Pearl of Africa Victoria Association (UPAVA)

• Burundi Association in Victoria

• Afro Pearls Empowering Women and Families

• Somali Association in Victoria

These collaborations have amplified our mission to empower communities.

Strategic Milestones Achieved in 2024

1. Completion of Our Strategic PlanWe established a comprehensive roadmap to guide AWAFN toward achieving our organizational goals.

2. Annual General Meeting (AGM)The AGM was a platform to reflect on past achievements and appoint an Interim Board, ensuring alignment with our future aspirations.

3. Interim Board LeadershipThe Interim Board provided exceptional guidance, driving organizational growth and stability.

4. Strategic Plan Implementation

   • Enhanced Visibility: A new website and active presence on Facebook and LinkedIn strengthened communication and accessibility.

   • AWAFN Newsletter: A vital tool for sharing updates and celebrating milestones.

   • Partnerships, Events and Programs. We forged alliances with organizations and individuals that share our vision and commitment to deliver initiatives and programs.​

Highlights from Our Events and Initiatives

1. Multicultural Seniors' Co-Design and Consultation WorkshopIn partnership with the Centre for Cultural Diversity in Ageing, AWAFN hosted a workshop on September 9, 2024, to consult seniors from diverse backgrounds on what it means to age well. Participants included federal representatives and key stakeholders.

2. Multicultural Carers Program Respite ActivitiesAWAFN and UPAVA hosted several engaging events for carers, including:

Eid Al Adha Community Dinner (June 21, 2024)

Carers Celebration Buffet Lunch (June 29, 2024)

Ugandan Gala Dinner Respite (October 12, 2024)

End-of-Year Celebration (December 9, 2024)

These events brought together carers, service providers, and community leaders for cultural performances, networking, and celebration.

3. Beach Water Safety EducationOn February 3, 2024, AWAFN partnered with Life Saving Victoria to teach essential water-safety skills at 64-65 Beach Road, Mentone Beach.

4. DonateLife Week EventDuring DonateLife Week, on Saturday 3 August, 2024, AWAFN hosted the "Let Me Tell You a Story" event to promote organ donation awareness. Community leaders and health specialists inspired vital conversations on life-saving contributions. See link for details.

5. Cancer Screening Awareness ProjectIn October and November 2024, AWAFN collaborated with the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care to deliver culturally appropriate cancer screening education to African-Australian communities.

6. Changepreneurs 16 Days of ActivismAWAFN Senior Social Worker Theresa Sengaaga Ssali attended the Day 14 event of the 16 days global campaign against gender-based violence organised by Changeprenuers. Theresa highlighted the need to redefine gender norms for a more equitable world.

7. Networking Breakfast and WorkshopsOn December 4, 2024, AWAFN team (Theresa Sengaaga Ssali, Con Pagonis, David Sengaaga, and Nthati Rametse) attended the Centre for Cultural Diversity in Ageing Networking Breakfast and facilitated discussions at the Communities' Council on Ethnic Issues workshop. The AWAFN team and other multicultural Seniors shared their perspective on the Ageing Well Report was launched on that day. ​

Our Programs

Please see Our_Programs page for ongoing programs of the African Women’s and Families Network.

Looking Ahead

Through our programs, events, and partnerships, AWAFN has demonstrated unwavering commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and advocacy. We extend our deepest gratitude to our volunteers and partners whose dedication has been instrumental in achieving our mission.

As we prepare for 2025, AWAFN welcomes new collaborations and support to continue making a lasting impact across diverse communities.

For inquiries or partnerships, contact Theresa Sengaaga Ssali at awafn11@gmail.com.

Together, let’s build a brighter future!