Women for Women International works with socially excluded women in eight countries where war and conflict have devastated lives and communities. Each woman we serve has her own story–some of loved ones murdered, and others of physical and emotional trauma. Most have endured a struggle for survival. When we enroll women in our one-year program, they learn job skills and receive business training so they can earn a living. They come to understand their rights and how to fight for those rights in their homes, their communities and their nations and become leaders. Women for Women International (WfWI) believes that lasting change can only be achieved when women have access to both knowledge and resources.

Meryl Streep has narrated various films for Women for Women International. “Taking Back the Land” focuses on Rwanda, where agriculture training and the launch of CIFI (Commercial Integrated Farming Initiative) is helping women take back the land. “I Am the New Definition of a Business Woman” is about WfWI’s programs in war-torn countries, empowering women to rebuild their lives. Rights awareness training, job skills education and microcredit loans enable women to sustain an income after graduating from the program – some starting their own businesses. They are the new definition of a business woman. “Join me on the Bridge” is a global campaign led by WfWI in celebration of International Women’s Day, which this year will also mark its 100th anniversary.