WellFound’s New Approach to Addressing Inequality

At WellFound, we believe that true gender equality goes beyond empowering individuals and helps entire communities grow and thrive—leading to collective prosperity.

This concept emerged during a review meeting with our Sierra Leone team, where we faced challenges in applying the term “equality.” Shifting to “Collective Prosperity" better reflects our approach and has been well received in communities.

It emphasises shared growth and collaboration rather than individual empowerment, which aligns with our mission for sustainable development. We are now introducing this concept in Guinea Bissau, and it is already making good progress.

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The Importance of Collective Prosperity

When women and men have equal access to rights and opportunities, entire communities flourish. Collective Prosperity leads to better decision-making, improved livelihoods, and enhanced well- being. In Kargboro Chiefdom, Sierra Leone, WellFound has witnessed how breaking gender barriers strengthens communities.

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Through initiatives like Market Garden activities and the Village Savings and Loan scheme, women have gained economic independence, started businesses, and supported their families. Men, too, are recognising the value of women’s participation in decision-making, shifting long-held cultural norms.

Barriers to Progress

However, traditional gender roles and prevailing social norms often limit women's opportunities to contribute equally to community development.

Additionally, the term “equality” was initially met with resistance, as some men saw themselves as the sole decision-makers. Overcoming these barriers requires continuous education, economic empowerment, and inclusive dialogue.

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Successes in Achieving Collective Prosperity

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WellFound’s grassroots initiatives have been instrumental in bridging gender gaps by fostering inclusivity and shared responsibility. Cultural perceptions are shifting, and more men, women, and youth now view gender equality as a collective effort.

Women’s economic empowerment through small businesses and community projects has increased their influence in local decision-making. Household-level discussions on shared responsibilities have also contributed to reducing domestic conflicts, and fostering greater cooperation and respect between men and women.

Voices from the Community
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Jeneba Koroma (Mogbato - Sierra Leone): “We thank God and WellFound. Before, men used the term ‘50-50’ against us, especially when it came to hard labour and providing for our homes. But since WellFound’s intervention, men are now supporting us in our communal gardens and household responsibilities.”

Moseray Koroma (Gbualail - Sierra Leone): “As men, we were against the term ‘equality’ because we felt it was turning our wives against us. But through WellFound, we realised that working together as a family brings peace, love, and happiness into our homes. Now, we live in harmony.”

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At WellFound, we are committed to fostering Collective Prosperity in every community we serve. Together, we are building a future where gender equality is not a source of division but a foundation for unity and progress.

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