Our Story
WHO WE ARE
East African Women's Foundation
The East African Women’s Foundation (EAWF) is a non-profit community association that has worked with the East African community in Melbourne at a grassroots level since 2007. Based at our community centre, the Ilays Community Heritage Centre in Braybrook, in Melbourne’s west, we provide casework, advocacy, settlement and referral services, and run events and projects that respond directly to the needs our community tells us matter most.
OUR MISSION
“We empower women — because when a woman is supported, her whole family rises with her. Strong, confident mothers raise strong, confident children.”
Empower Women
Investing in women so they can nurture the next generation.
Strengthen Families
Confident mothers raise confident, capable young people.
Build Belonging
Equipping young people to become exemplary citizens of their home.
FOUNDUNG
A Journey of Service
EAWF was founded in 2007 by Fartun Farah, who has seen it grow into a key community group for Somali-speaking people in Melbourne. Having come to Australia as a refugee herself, Fartun had a deep yearning to help others in her position. Her work spans more than three decades, beginning as a teacher in Somalia and with Care–International in Kenyan refugee camps, promoting peace, education, health and literacy among women. That lived experience remains the foundation of how EAWF works.
Arts · Culture · Community
Culture at the Heart of Everything
Through cultural festivals, storytelling, music, poetry, food and language, we create spaces where Somali culture is celebrated openly and shared generously with the wider Melbourne community. Our committees and youth programs bring young Somali Australians into that work as organisers and leaders. For a generation growing up between two cultures, knowing your heritage is valued is what makes belonging possible.
The Ilays Community Heritage Centre is where much of this comes together — a place our community can call its own, where women gather, young people learn, culture is kept alive and passed on, and families know they will find a familiar face.
Our Impact
A Significant, Lasting Difference
With the help of dedicated staff, enthusiastic volunteers, funding bodies and partnerships across Melbourne, EAWF has improved outcomes for women and their families across the East African community.
Social Groups
Countered isolation and built lasting support networks among women who might otherwise have none.
Youth Programs
Built skills and confidence, opened pathways to education and employment, and strengthened wellbeing.
Arts & Culture
Celebrated Somali heritage, shared it with the wider community, and gave the next generation pride.
Community Committees
Improved relationships with police, helped parents access support, and gave community a genuine voice.
Health Initiatives
Tackled difficult issues including Khat abuse and FGM, led by women the community trusts.