Women And Youth Movement (Woyomo) is a feminist non-profit organization founded in 2020 by Ms. Monica, a young woman who grew up in a rural Sukuma community in Tanzania. From an early age, Monica witnessed deep-rooted gender inequalities that limited the potential of girls and women in her community. Girls were seen as second-class citizens, and denied the right to education, autonomy, and decision-making, while women were expected to remain silent in the face of violence and inequality.

Many girls around her dropped out of school due to poverty, early marriages, or being forced into income-generating activities to support their families. Some were even discouraged from performing well in school to prevent them from pursuing higher education—because educated girls were seen as a threat to patriarchal traditions. Women, too, were expected to endure abuse quietly, with no financial independence or community support.

Despite these challenges, Monica’s path was different. Inspired by her father—a man who believed in education and supported girls who lacked basic school needs—she realized how privileged she was and felt a strong calling to give back. In college, Monica co-founded the Smart Ladies Foundation, a student-led movement to support girls facing gender-based violence and exploitation. They began with online sessions and mentorship programs during the COVID-19 pandemic, connecting girls to role models and building their confidence and leadership.

In 2022, with the need to expand its impact, the organization was officially registered as the Women And Youth Movement (Woyomo) to include both women and youth. Woyomo now works across four key thematic areas: education, economic empowerment, gender equality, and health (mental health & SRHR). We support girls through mentorship, menstrual health education, and advocacy; we empower young women with vocational and business skills; and we create safe spaces for healing and growth.

Monica’s vision is to build a Tanzania where girls and women—especially those from rural and marginalized communities—are not just seen but heard, not just helped but empowered. Woyomo is committed to a future where girls lead, women thrive, and communities are transformed by gender justice.