Standing with survivors: UWC alumna leads vital work on International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
Today marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, a reminder that gender-based violence touches every community and demands sustained action. In Eswatini, UWC alumna Nosipho Gwebu Storer (Waterford Kamhlaba UWC of Southern Africa, 1992–1997) is leading that work through Goshen, a shelter she founded to support women and children in crisis.
Goshen offers emergency accommodation, counselling and skills training. Survivors are linked to clinical care, education pathways and livelihoods support, helping them regain stability and independence. The shelter operates in partnership with national services and development agencies including the European Union through UNFPA and the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives.
Nosipho’s work responds to a stark reality. In Eswatini, more than 8 percent of girls aged 13 to 24 report having experienced sexual violence, and most first incidents take place in the home. Goshen provides safety in these moments of deepest vulnerability. It supports survivors as young as 12 and prioritises those facing additional risks, including widows, refugees and trafficked people. Reflecting on Goshen’s beginnings, Nosipho explains: “When I started this project, my goal was to create a safe space where women and children could feel supported and empowered. I never imagined the ripple effect it would have in the community.” She often traces this commitment back to her time at Waterford Kamhlaba UWC:
UWC taught me to see challenges as opportunities for co-creation and to recognise that everyone can be an agent of change. Being surrounded by people from so many cultures shaped the way I work with communities today.
Goshen’s support stretches far beyond immediate safety. Women access life skills, literacy support and training in areas such as baking, sewing, farming and jewellery making, helping them transition to independence. Several survivors have already moved on to employment and school re-enrolment.
Nosipho’s path began with a UWC scholarship. The UWC Global Endowment helps more young people follow that same journey, creating the space for future leaders to shape change in their own communities.
Support scholarships: Donate to the UWC Global EndowmentAlready a member of the UWC Hub? Connect with Nosipho.
