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 Program
Outreach Program
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.
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.
Velma made a significant impact by providing encouragement and essentials to 226 prisoners through her church ministry. She is an active leader in her community providing her expertise, kindness, and support.
Susan graduated from our gap year program at the Kalingalinga Youth Resources Center. As part of this training, she received her Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Certificate!
Namnyak volunteered at a local children’s home, giving back to the community she once called home. Her contributions included cooking, cleaning, and assisting with daily tasks, which was an enriching and inspiring experience.
Idah started a WhatsApp group with girls in her church and shares important information that she’s learned from Freely in Hope. In the group, she discusses topics on healthy relationships, consent, and sexual health, sharing her knowledge and empowering other girls in her community.
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.”
Since starting her business, Eunice has experienced steady growth, with more customers recognizing her commitment to quality detergent products and services. Her profits have improved, allowing her to plan for a permanent storefront. The grant has provided her with a sense of purpose, restored her dignity, and earned her respect in the community.
Anne’s porridge business has flourished since receiving our grant, allowing her to expand her hours of operations. After reinvesting in supplies, she joined a table banking group, further boosting her financial stability. With her increased earnings, Anne now provides for her six children’s needs, including food and education. Her success is driven by strong customer relationships, financial discipline, and patience, all of which continue to guide her entrepreneurial journey.
Juliet’s business faced significant setbacks after a fire destroyed her stock. Despite these challenges, the grant has empowered her to engage with new customers and expand her product range, adding facial products for additional income. She continues to provide daily meals for her family, including her late sister’s children, and aspires to secure insurance for her business’s future.
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
graduates with 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).
*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.
