SWDA
Empowering communitiesacross Victoria
Our People
Community-led, culturally responsive, and built on lived experience.
Meet the people, mission and core values that have guided SWDA since 2004.
About Us
Somali Women’s Development Association Inc. (SWDA) is a community-driven organisation dedicated to empowering African community, including women, children, youth, families, elders and people with disabilities from African backgrounds. With a strong commitment to gender equality, social justice and cultural preservation, SWDA serves as a beacon of positive change, fostering environments where individuals, families and communities can thrive.
Empowering Community: At SWDA, we believe that true empowerment comes from within the community. By providing access to essential services, educational resources and cultural understanding, we help individuals take control of their futures and actively engage in their own development. Our focus is on breaking down barriers to employment, education, health and wellbeing, and social integration.
Building Futures: SWDA offers programs in employment brokerage, education, vocational training, mentorship and leadership development so individuals and families have the tools, guidance and support to build brighter futures.
Strengthening Our Community: Through cultural celebration, mutual respect and collaboration, SWDA creates opportunities for cross-cultural dialogue and promotes social cohesion through festivals, social events and collaborative initiatives.
Our Mission
Somali Women’s Development Association is committed to empower African Australian community through culturally responsive services, advocacy and inclusive community-led initiatives. In collaboration with government and local partners, we deliver impactful programs that support:
- Employment Brokers initiative programs with job readiness support, daily job search groups, workshops and employment expo opportunities
- Education support through Homework Club for primary and high school children at 15 Stubbs St, Kensington
- Adult education support and referrals to English classes, vocational training and partner education pathways
- Youth mentorship and advocacy that foster leadership, resilience and cultural identity
- Family violence support, parenting programs and child wellbeing services
- Health and wellbeing promotion, including mental health and accessible community health services
- Special needs education awareness and early intervention support for schools, childcare centres and family day care
- Social and economic empowerment through employment services, training and community engagement
- Cultural connection and celebration through community festivals and events
- Community participation initiatives that encourage volunteering, civic engagement and inclusive decision-making
SWDA is dedicated to creating safe, inclusive spaces where individuals, children, youth and families from African Australian backgrounds can grow, thrive and actively contribute to vibrant and resilient communities.
Core Values
- Compassion and Care (Rahma): We serve with empathy and kindness, guided by mercy and person-centred care, prioritising respectful and non-judgmental support.
- Justice and Equity (Adi): We promote fairness, human rights and equal opportunity, challenging discrimination and systemic barriers.
- Dignity and Respect (Karamah): We believe in the inherent dignity of every person and respect people of all faiths and backgrounds.
- Integrity and Accountability (Amanah): We uphold ethical practice, transparency and accountability in line with professional social work standards.
- Community and Cooperation (Ta’awun): We value community-led solutions, shared responsibility, collaboration and active participation.
- Empowerment and Education (Ilm and Istiqamah): We promote education, resilience and leadership development as pathways to long-term wellbeing and self-reliance.
