Where It All Begins | From Survival To Governance

A community leader supported by SOFEPADI the organization co-founded by Julienne Lusenge in 2000 shares a moment of warmth and laughter with elderly women survivors during a community gathering in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

This image captures the heart of Julienne Lusenge's lifelong mission: reaching the most marginalized women in conflict-affected communities, offering them not only legal and psychosocial support but the irreplaceable gift of solidarity and recognition.

While Lusenge carries Congo's cause to international forums from Kigali to Barcelona, the foundation of her work remains rooted in moments like these in remote villages and makeshift community spaces where women who have survived unspeakable violence are reminded that they are seen, valued, and not alone. In a region where millions remain displaced by ongoing armed conflict, SOFEPADI's community-level presence continues to serve as a critical anchor of protection and hope.