ABDIKADIR MOHUMED
BOARD MEMBER
Helping today 
Helping tommorow
Helping today Helping tommorow
Somali Women’s Development Association Inc. (SWDA) is a community -driven organisation dedicated to empowering African community, including women, children, youth, families, elders, and people with disabilities from African backgrounds. With a strong commitment to gender equality, social justice, and cultural preservation. SWDA serves as a beacon of positive change, fostering environments where individuals, families, and communities can Thrive.
Somali Women’s Development Association is committed to empower African Australian community through culturally responsive services, advocacy, and inclusive community -led initiatives. In collaboration with government, local partners, we deliver impactful programs that supports:
Employment Brokers Initiative Programs to support African Australian Jobseekers, offering tailored job readiness support, daily job search groups, employment twice monthly employment workshops and employment Expo.
Education support Homework Club program: delivers a dedicated Homework Club for primary and high school children at 15 Stubbs St. Kensington supporting young people from African backgrounds who may face language barriers their parents, or limited educational resources at home or other challenges that impact their academic engagement. The Homework Club provides a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment were primary and secondary school children receive tailored academic assistance.
Adult Education Support: We support and refer Jobseekers to our partners such as AMES Australia adult English classes, and vocational training in partnership with Opendoor (formally known WCIG Training) Certificate III in Individual Support, Technical Advanced Training (TAT) Certificate II in Security Operations, Parker Brent, Certificate IV in Building and Constructions, Entry Education, Certificate IV Real Estate Course.
Youth mentorship and advocacy, fostering leadership, resilience, and cultural identity.
Family violence support, parenting programs and child wellbeing services
Health and wellbeing promotion, with a focus on mental health and accessible community health services.
Special needs education awareness to reduce stigma and support early intervention in schools, childcare centres, and family Day Care.
Social and economic empowerment through employment services, training, and community engagement.
Cultural connection and celebration, through community festivals and events that promote diversity, social harmony and unity
Community participation Initiatives, encouraging volunteering, civic engagement, and inclusive decision-making to foster a strong sense of belonging and collective empowerment.
SWDA is dedicated to creating safe, inclusive spaces were individuals, child, youth, families, from African Australian backgrounds can grow, thrive, and actively contribute to shaping vibrant and resilient communities.
At Somali Women’s Development Association our core values are inspired by Islamic principles of compassion, justice, dignity,and community development frameworks. We are equally committed to upholding professional social work standards and apply community development frameworks and principles in all our programs and services. This dual foundation ensures we deliver ethical, inclusive, and impactful support that empowers individuals and strengthens community.
1. Compassion and Care (Rahma): We serve with empathy and kindness, guided by Islamic value pf mercy and the social work principle of person-centred care. We prioritise the wellbeing of individuals and families through respectful, non-judgmental support.
2. Justice and Equity (Adi): SWDA promotes fairness, human rights, and equal opportunity. We challenge discrimination and systemic barriers while working to create a just and inclusive society. aligning with both Islamic ethics and social justice frameworks in social work and community development.
3. Dignity and Respect (Karamah): We believe in the inherent dignity of every person. While rooted in Islamic values, we respect people of all faiths and backgrounds. Our work is culturally sensitive, inclusive and grounded in mutual respect and human worth.
4. Integrity and Accountability (Amanah): We uphold the highest standards of ethical practice, transparency and accountability. Our staff and volunteers operate with professionalism and responsibility, in line with both Islamic teachings and the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) Code of ethics and CD Frameworks.
5. Community and Cooperation (Ta’awun): We value collective strength, community-led solutions, and shared responsibility. Our approach follows community development principles, emphasising collaboration, empowerment, and active community participation.
6. Empowerment and education (Ilm and Istiqamah): We promote education, resilience, and personal growth as pathways to long- term wellbeing and self-reliance. Through capacity building and leadership development, we empower individuals to create meaningful change in their lives and community.
