From the day it opened its doors in 1993, the Autonomous Women’s Center has rooted its work in feminism, anti-nationalist principles, and a holistic approach to healing, preventing and reducing the violence against women.

Every four years, a majority of Ghanaians peacefully elect their government, upholding their position as Africa’s first self-governing democracy. Thanks to Global Fund grantee ABANTU for Development, Ghana’s women are ensuring the country’s governance structures reflect its demographics.

In 20 years of grantmaking, we’ve learned that educated women and girls step up to lead in their families, homes and societies. Their confidence and empowerment make a difference in the health, welfare and security of all citizens.

By Michele Kumi Baer

Across India, Nepal and Bangladesh, GFW grantee-partner Kolkata Sanved demonstrates how dance can have a transformative impact on survivors of violence. Through Dance Movement Therapy (DMT), the group trains and empowers survivors of violence and trafficking, including mental health patients, women and children diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, domestic workers and homeless children.