I’M WORTH DEFENDING (IWD) is a Kenyan non-governmental organization (NGO) that was established in 2007 to combat high rates of sexual violence, particularly rape and defilement in the informal settlement of Korogocho. Since its inception, IWD’s presence has expanded to other Counties across the Country, empowering communities by challenging unequal power dynamics within families, institutions, and communities, with the aim being to empower individual socio-economically and encourage like-minded stakeholders to embrace a people-centric community-led approach to programming.
IWD remains a leader in the prevention and response to Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), violence against children (VAC), and other obstacles that curtail the well-being of individual and the development of communities, envisioning a society free from violence and inequality. IWD works to create an enabling environment, dismantling unequal power relations, shifting power dynamics and promoting locally-owned solutions to the problems that individuals and communities face, seeking to transform negative attitudes and retrogressive norms at the individual level, while promoting fairness and equality within families, communities, and institutions.
IWD is committed to fostering a society where everyone can live free from violence, discrimination and from modern servitude. Through our holistic approach to gender justice, SGBV and VAC prevention, and socio-economic empowerment, we aim to create lasting change in the society.
VISION
A society free from gender-based violence (GBV), violence against children (VAC), modern slavery and where gender equality, social justice and empowerment are the foundations of a harmonious and prosperous society.
MISSION
I’m Worth Defending (IWD) is dedicated to transforming the society through prevention of gender-based violence (GBV) and violence against children (VAC), promotion of gender justice and equality, eradication of modern slavery and advancement of socio-economic empowerment of all individuals, particularly marginalized communities and groups
Our Objectives:
SGBV and VAC Prevention:
Implement community education programs that raise awareness about SGBV and VAC, and promote healthy relationships.
Community Engagement:
Foster partnerships with local organizations, community leaders, and other stakeholder among them relevant government authorities in promoting peace and education to strengthen the impact of all of IWD’s programs.
Socio-Economic Empowerment:
Provide training, resources, and support for economic development initiatives aimed at empowering individuals, especially women, youth and Persons With Disability (PWDs).
Survivor Support:
Establish support networks for survivors of SGBV and other forms of human rights violations, including counseling, legal assistance, and access to healthcare.
Advocacy for Gender Justice:
Work with local and national governments to influence policies that advance gender justice and equality and human rights.
Amelia Okoro
Alfred M. Makabira
Christine Auma
Leah Kezziah
George Ouma
Maureen Dominique
Patricia Apiyo
Lucy Ligami
Dickson Nyawina
Scholastica Atieno
Our Core Values/ Guiding Principles
Empowerment:
IWD believes in empowering individuals and communities to take control of their lives and advocate for their rights.
Equality:
IWD is committed to promoting equality for all genders and combating discrimination in all forms.
Compassion:
IWD approaches work with empathy, understanding, and a dedication to supporting the vulnerable and marginalized in communities where we operate.
Collaboration:
IWD recognizes that sustainable change occurs through collaboration and partnerships with communities, stakeholders, and other organizations.
Integrity:
IWD operates with transparency, accountability, and ethical practices in our programs and partnerships.