This past Saturday, the Jamil and Nyanga Jaward Foundation hosted a memorable fundraising luncheon sale at CB’s Restaurant, Maritime House, Freetown. The event was more than just a gathering—it was a celebration of resilience, community, and the transformative impact of empowering widows in Sierra Leone.
The luncheon brought together an incredible mix of widows, community leaders, dignitaries, and supporters to raise funds for the foundation’s vital initiatives. These programs focus on providing widows and underprivileged women with the resources, opportunities, and support they need to rebuild their lives and create a brighter future.
The atmosphere at the luncheon was vibrant and filled with hope. Cultural performances, heartfelt speeches, and fun competitions like the best African dress contest and the laughing contest brought joy and laughter to the day. These activities not only entertained but also highlighted the strength, creativity, and resilience of the widows supported by the foundation.
Opening the event, Hawa Bintu Dauda, Acting Programs Coordinator for the foundation, delivered a powerful address, emphasizing the importance of collective action in sustaining the organization’s work.
“Our foundation is entirely self-funded, and this luncheon serves as a critical opportunity to rally support for the widows who rely on us,” Dauda said. “We provide medical supplies, install water tanks to ensure clean water, and empower women through group savings programs. Today is about coming together to renew hope and create opportunities for these widows to rebuild their lives.”
The keynote speaker, Dr. Susan Robert, director at the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA), shared a deeply personal story about her mother’s journey as a widow. She highlighted the struggles widows face while raising children single-handedly and praised the foundation for creating a safety net for these women.
“As women, when we remain dedicated and focused, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve extraordinary growth,” Dr. Robert said, encouraging the audience to continue supporting widows.
Guest speaker Cecilia Bio also reflected on the global challenges of widowhood and its profound impact on families. She emphasized the need for economic empowerment, urging widows to focus on rebuilding their lives.
“Losing a husband is not the end of your world,” Bio said. “This is the time to focus on ensuring a bright future for your children. Organizations like the Jamil and Nyanga Jaward Foundation are here to help you achieve that.”
The event also showcased the foundation’s life-changing initiatives. Testimonies from widows demonstrated how the organization’s work is making a tangible difference.
Marion Bangs, a widow from Crab Town, shared how the foundation’s installed water tanks have improved her community’s access to clean water, reducing health issues and positively impacting children’s well-being. She also praised the foundation’s savings programs for empowering women to grow their businesses and improve their financial independence.
“Our children’s well-being has improved, and the savings box has helped us boost our economic activities,” she said, expressing gratitude on behalf of her community.
The event culminated in the cutting of the foundation’s anniversary cake—a symbolic moment celebrating the milestones achieved in transforming lives. Chairladies representing the widows joined foundation staff in this heartfelt ceremony, marking another chapter in the organization’s journey of empowerment.
The fundraising luncheon served as a powerful reminder of the critical role that community and collective efforts play in empowering widows. Through innovative programs such as healthcare access, clean water initiatives, and economic empowerment, the Jamil and Nyanga Jaward Foundation continues to be a beacon of hope for widows and vulnerable women in Sierra Leone.
Attendees left inspired and motivated to continue supporting the foundation’s work to ensure that widows can overcome challenges and thrive.
The Jamil and Nyanga Jaward Foundation is a self-funded organization dedicated to reducing inequality by empowering widows, vulnerable women, and impoverished children. Through its focus on healthcare, economic independence, and community development, the foundation is transforming lives across Freetown and beyond.
For those inspired to join the cause, your support can make a profound difference. Together, we can empower widows, build stronger communities, and create a brighter future.
