Freely in Hope
The Power of Survivor-Led Change
2024 Annual Report
who we are
The Problem
More than 370 million girls and women alive today – or 1 in 8 – experienced rape or sexual assault before the age of 18. Sub-Saharan Africa has the highest number of victims, with 79 million girls and women affected. – UNICEF
Our Solution
Freely in Hope equips survivors to lead in ending the cycle of sexual violence. We empower girls and women in Sub-Saharan Africa to lead with their lived experiences as they work to care for survivors and prevent sexual abuse worldwide.
our strategic priorities
Develop and platform survivor-leaders that transform systems across global communities.
Be known for proven best practices in anti-sexual violence initiatives designed by survivors of sexual violence.
Transition to a sustainable Afrocentric survivor-leadership model.
director’s note
We believe that survivors of sexual abuse have the potential to become the most powerful leaders in our communities and in our world.
Fourteen years ago, Freely in Hope began through the stories of one survivor in Kenya and one survivor in Zambia. They didn’t just want to make a name only for themselves, in fact, they wanted to ensure their entire family, their whole communities moved toward success, toward hope, toward healing—despite the traumatic effects of sexual violence. They understood, as Lilla Watson said, “Our liberation is bound to each other, so let us work together.”
In the past 14 years, we have provided scholarships for over 50 survivors of sexual abuse. Our alumni have gone on to work in their dream careers, start successful businesses, pursue master’s degrees, and become influential advocates against sexual violence. Many alumni come back to Freely in Hope as staff members leading programs that heal survivors and prevent sexual abuse. In 2024, we impacted 6,275 people all around the world. We witnessed 3 high school scholars graduate, provided 5 microfinance grants to women entrepreneurs, empowered 102 faith leaders through child protection curriculum, and leveraged the power of survivor leadership with thousands of leaders.
This is a pivotal year for us. We see a beautiful opportunity to bring our survivor-leadership model full circle by fully transitioning the organization to be led by African survivors and advocates fighting against sexual violence. In this shift, our hope is to support ownership, decision-making, and power-building within the communities we serve.
One of the important aspects of power-building is that survivors have access to financial resources so that they can make critical decisions that support growth on their terms.
We need supporters, like you, who not only believe in ending sexual violence, but also believe in building power, leadership, and equity within survivors of sexual violence. This is truly the work of justice—by overturning oppressive systems that have kept women out of power. Freely in Hope is changing the narrative by catalyzing opportunities for survivors to lead global initiatives that will undoubtedly liberate future generations.
We look forward to witnessing the incredible survivor leaders who will carry us forward to the next phase.
Funding holistic education for survivors of sexual abuse remains the crux of our mission, and to support their leadership, our communities have the opportunity to scale, expand, and reach even more survivors, children, families, and communities looking for light in dark seasons.
We hope that you’ll join us in this fight against sexual violence by uplifting the next generation of survivor-leaders offering hope to our world in need.
Founder &
International Director
Journey through 2024
3 High School Scholars Graduate!
Our high school graduates received certificates of distinction in Mathematics, Chemistry, Debate, Biology, Commerce, Geography, Chemistry, Poetry, and Public Speaking! We are so proud of this new class of high school graduates and look forward to continuing support of their next steps in education.
4 Scholars Are Accepted Into University!
Pendo’s Power Equips Faith Leaders to Protect Children
5 Malkia Alumni Receive Business Grants
Local Advocates Gather to Champion Survivor Rights
The “Beauty in Brokenness” storytelling event brought together passionate survivor advocates in Nairobi. We discussed how embracing our struggles can make us stronger, especially in the context of community. Through shared stories, we fostered a sense of collective strength and healing. Together, we shared the challenges of our communities and visions for a better world, creating a supportive environment for survivors of sexual abuse.
Pendo’s Power featured in The Standard Media Kenya
My advocacy efforts are fueled by my past experience as a child survivor of sexual abuse, and my present experiences as a mother and a child protection advocate. Unless we collectively disrupt the systems that perpetuate violence against children, it is going to be challenging to end it,”
Lydia Matioli Author of Pendo’s Power
Program innovations for a safer world
Our solutions are designed by survivors to holistically address the challenges of sexual abuse. Our latest innovations work to prevent sexual abuse and promote survivor care across global communities.
Pitstop: A Virtual Space to Refuel, Reconnect, and Rebuild
- Kenya & Zambia
We launched the Pitstop, an interactive monthly virtual space designed for Freely in Hope University scholars to connect across Kenya and Zambia. Scholars engaged in candid conversations and embraced their journey towards holistic well-being and resilient leadership. Throughout the year, Scholars developed action plans to support their academic growth, self-confidence, and professional development—fostering sisterhood across borders.
This year, I have grown to become more self-confident. Pitstop helped me identify self-sabotaging thoughts that have been draining me from being my best self.”Velma Pursuing a Bachelors of
Science Education
RESEARCHING BEST PRACTICES ON SURVIVOR CARE
- Kenya & Zambia
Freely in Hope partnered with REACH Lab at the University of San Francisco to conduct a research study titled “Empowering Voices: From Survivors to Community Leaders.” The research project aimed to assess the effectiveness of Freely in Hope’s survivor-centered scholarship program, which empowers young girls in Kenya and Zambia.
The collaborative study seeks to identify best practices that foster healing within survivors of sexual abuse. The findings will be published and shared as a survivor-centered resource for organizations serving survivors.
PROTECTING GOD’S CHILDREN: EQUIPPING FAITH LEADERS TO PREVENT CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE
- Kenya & Zambia
Across Kenya and Zambia, we trained 102 faith leaders through the Pendo’s Power Sunday School Curriculum, our newest child protection program for churches. They continued on to train other leaders in their communities, reaching 1,325 more people. Through our training, faith leaders showed a tremendous shift:
Before this training, I didn’t know how to respond when a child reported abuse.
Now, I understand my role in protecting them not just spiritually, but physically and emotionally. I will implement this knowledge in my church to ensure no child suffers in silence.”
John Kasongo
Head Pastor
Spiritual Church of Zambia
Through the Pendo’s Power Sunday School Curriculum, faith leaders were equipped with essential tools to address sexual violence within their communities and congregations. The initiative successfully challenged cultural norms and helped shift mindsets around child safety. It fostered safe spaces where both children and adult survivors could share their stories, breaking cycles of silence and shame associated with sexual violence. Participants left empowered, ready to use their voices as agents of change in their communities.
We are proud to support our local partners:
- Pentecostal Assemblies of God Church, Lusaka
- The Salvation Army, Nairobi
- The Spiritual Church of Zambia, Kalingalinga
- United Church of Zambia, Lusaka
The most significant impact for me has been sitting in a room with senior pastors and witnessing how their beliefs shape the leadership of those under their care, such as Sunday school teachers, deacons, and youth pastors. It has been incredibly rewarding to help shift their perspectives on sexual violence and watch them influence others positively throughout the session. This change is truly life-giving and exactly what our faith communities and countries need. I’m excited to see how these faith leaders will go on to develop policies that protect children and prevent sexual violence!”
Magdalene Chikanya
Child Protection Coordinator
Zambia
Our Survivor Leadership Trajectory
We believe survivors have the potential to be powerful leaders in their communities. We provide survivors with Holistic Education through high school and university and Leadership Development to equip their leadership, professional, and social skills. Survivors practice their leadership by leading and innovating Outreach Programs that care for survivors and prevent sexual abuse worldwide!
Holistic Education
leadership development
Outreach Programs
holistic education
scholars supported
psychosocial support sessions provided
Freely in Hope Scholars receive high school and university scholarships, health care, counseling, legal aid, safe housing, and a community of belonging to support their growth, healing, and education. Through this holistic support, scholars learn to share their experiences, express their needs, and collaborate on solutions to make the world a safer place.
Scholarships
Healthcare
Counseling
Legal Aid
Safe Housing
Community
Lynette, a high school scholar in Zambia, received certificates of distinction, noting highest marks in Commerce, Geography, Chemistry, Poetry, and Public Speaking!
At Freely in Hope, University Scholars are using their degrees to actively contribute to creating a safer world filled with hope. Our University Scholars are studying Medical Engineering, Science Education, Pharmacy, Medicine, Public Health, Nursing, and Law
leadership development
scholars and alumni engaged in community service
community members reached by scholars
Freely in Hope remains committed to developing the leadership of survivors through Leadership Labs which discuss topics such as public speaking, resume writing, building healthy relationships, and sexual and reproductive health and rights.
Equipped with knowledge, skills, and a deep commitment to social justice, Freely in Hope scholars are working on the frontlines of issues like child protection, gender equality, and community empowerment.
Outreach
Programs
Our Outreach Programs provide the platforms for survivor-leaders to share their stories and lead dynamic initiatives that care for survivors and prevent sexual abuse.
I. Malkia
- Kenya
We conducted an in-depth evaluation of the impact of the Malkia program. Malkia, meaning “Queen” in Swahili, provides a safe space for women in prostitution to be equipped, educated, and strengthened as role models that restore hope to their workplaces. By gaining valuable insights from 30 alumni, we learned that:
have exited prostitution
of Malkia graduates run small businesses or earn income from casual labor
are no longer using drugs
The Malkia program continues to empower women by providing entrepreneurial opportunities, financial support, and mentorship, reinforcing its impact in fostering economic independence and social transformation. We provided 5 microfinance grants to Malkia alumni, enabling them to start or scale their businesses.
With this business, I can smile again and appreciate myself and my work. I see myself going far and achieving my goals.”
II. Super Girls Revolution: Young Girls Leading the Fight for a Violence-Free Future
- Zambia
Super Girls Revolution (SGR) has made significant strides in transforming the lives of young women in Zambia, addressing the root causes of child marriage, teenage pregnancies, sex trafficking, and gang violence. Through a unique combination of mentorship, life skills education, leadership development, and trauma healing, SGR provides a safe space for girls to share their stories and heal from past traumas. The program’s growth from just 5 participants in 2017 to over 200 girls by 2024 demonstrates its profound impact, with many graduates now serving as leaders and advocates in their communities. By offering personalized mentorship, home visits, and support for survivors of sexual violence, SGR has empowered girls to reclaim their voices, protect themselves from abuse, and develop essential life skills.
Due to funding changes, SGR paused the program and graduated 82 members who have shown exceptional leadership skills as a result of the program. SGR has laid the foundation for a generation of resilient, empowered leaders committed to breaking the cycle of violence in Kalingalinga, Zambia.
participants in 2017
participants in 2024
leadership skills
I have been a member of Super Girls Revolution ever since it began in 2017—it has been my safe space. Previously, I struggled a lot with knowing my worth. But through the sessions, I learned how to love and value myself. I have also learned to speak up for myself. By meeting with Freely in Hope staff who mentored me, I was encouraged to work hard in school and grow spiritually. I KNOW I AM VALUABLE TO MY COMMUNITY BECAUSE AS AN ADVOCATE AGAINST SEXUAL VIOLENCE, I ENSURE OTHER WOMEN AND GIRLS KNOW HOW TO REPORT ABUSE.”
III. Pendo’s Power Child Protection Programs
- Kenya
As a survivor, I understand the importance of creating spaces where children feel safe and heard. This work is personal to me because every child deserves the chance to dream without fear.”
Pendo’s Power Teaching Guide
We provided Pendo’s Power Child Protection Trainings at primary schools, children’s homes, and youth organizations across Kenya. We equipped children, students, parents, and staff with essential knowledge and skills to recognize, prevent, and respond to sexual violence.
The sessions covered topics such as consent, body boundaries, and identifying, preventing, and responding to sexual violence. Children engaged in open discussions on subjects previously considered taboo. Their ability to articulate these concepts demonstrated a shift in confidence and awareness, empowering children to advocate for themselves and others within their communities.
Our Pendo’s Power Child Protection Trainings provided valuable education and practical skills, equipping both children and adults with the confidence to address and prevent sexual violence.
We are proud to support our local partners:
- Becky’s School, Kibera
- Chariots for Hope, Mahiga
- Kiboro Primary School, Mathare
- Missions of Hope International, Kibera
- Limuru Children’s Center, Limuru
- Spur Afrika, Nairobi
THE PROGRAM HAS PROFOUNDLY IMPACTED THE CHILDREN’S UNDERSTANDING OF SEXUAL VIOLENCE, BREAKING THE SILENCE CULTURE THAT ENABLES ABUSE. The Pendo’s Power training offered a platform for open dialogue and education, leading to a remarkable shift in their awareness and empowerment. The children have internalized key lessons on recognizing and preventing abuse, gaining valuable self-protection and advocacy skills. Their newfound confidence in speaking out against abuse has empowered them to create safer environments for themselves and their peers.”
IV. Trauma-Informed Organizational Leadership Trainings
- Kenya
We provided virtual and in-person trainings promoting sustainable practices for leaders who are serving communities affected by poverty, trauma, and sexual violence.
We provided educational trainings for leaders at:
- 1st Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children: Bogota, Columbia.
- Brave Global: San Diego, CA
- Centre for Rights Education and Awareness (CREAW): Nairobi, Kenya
- Health and Human Resource Center: Alameda County, CA
- Kwaray, Pacific School of Religion: Berkeley, CA
- Made for Pax: Phoenix, AZ
- Nalanda School for Contemplative Science: New York, NY
we offer trainings in:
Child Protection
Through Pendo’s Power, we provide child protection trainings for children (ages 3-10), church leaders, teachers, and parents. To learn more about Pendo’s Power and how you can train your community, visit: pendospower.com
Survivor Care
We support organizations that care for survivors of sexual abuse, domestic violence, and other forms of trauma. We provide trainings on survivor support groups, trauma-informed care, and healing-centered engagement.
Trauma-Informed Organizational Leadership
We support organizational leaders aiming to provide a liberatory pathway for their communities affected by oppression. We provide resources, practices, and leadership models that are appreciative, strengths-based, and transformational to prevent burnout and foster
leadership sustainability.
To work with us, contact: nikole@freelyinhope.org
financials
Freely in Hope, a 501(c)3 public charity, registered in the State of California (EIN: 27-4008726).
- Income*
$402,267 - 2%
Churches - 1%
Products
- Expenses
$401,148 - 9%
Operations - 9%
Fundraising
- assets**
$167,186
- liabilities
$8,310
*The income figure reflects grants received in Africa and corporate matching donations received in 2024 and transferred in 2025. This figure will vary from our filed Form 990.
**Assets include bank balances for US, Kenya, and Zambia. In Kenya and Zambia, carried over to the following year. This figure will vary from our filed Form 990.
Our Funders
- Christian Layman Church
- Coalition of Black Excellence
- Dressember
- First Fruit Foundation
- FREE Initiative, Evangelical Covenant Church
- Girl Child Long Walk, Imago Dei
- Grace Fellowship Community Church
- Metis
- Valley Presbyterian Church
partners
- Valley Presbyterian Church
- Coalition Against Sexual Violence Kenya
- Coalition for Adolescent Girls
- District Health & AIDS Coordination Committee
- Nairobi County Gender Advocacy Technical Working Group, Kenya
- Nyeri County Government National Technical Group of the National Council for the Children’s Assembly
- Reach Lab, University of San Francisco
- Women Leaders for the World, How Women Lead
Our Future
This year, we are making the shift to center the leadership of African survivors of sexual violence. This process will implement practices of equitable decision-making, financial sustainability, and power-building with survivor leaders.
One of the important aspects of power-building is that survivors have access to financial resources so that they can make critical decisions that support growth on their terms. We need consistent partners who not only believe in ending sexual violence, but also believe in building power, leadership, and sustainability within survivors of sexual violence. By overturning oppressive systems that have kept women out of power, Freely in Hope is changing the narrative by providing equitable opportunities for women to lead global communities toward freedom, justice, and hope.
As we extend our generosity through giving, we must also trust that they will invest these resources into work that will undoubtedly liberate future generations. Let’s work together as we build a world where every survivor can thrive in their unique calling without fear of discrimination, oppression, or violence.
get involved
Become a Hope Circle Member to encircle our scholars with the holistic support they need to thrive!
Purchase our resources including curriculum, guides, and our first children’s book, Pendo’s Power!
Partner with us to provide a workshop, training, or talk about best practices in care, sexual abuse prevention, and trauma-informed organizational leadership.
