The Young Women’s Advisory Council (YWAC) is now accepting applications for its 2026 cohort. This prestigious leadership opportunity, hosted by FORWARD—the African women‑led organisation dedicated to ending violence against women and girls—invites passionate young women aged 18–30 from African, Black, and minoritised communities in the UK to step into meaningful leadership, advocacy, and community‑impact roles.

FORWARD has long been recognised as a leading organisation championing dignity, equality, and justice for African women and girls. Through its programmes addressing female genital mutilation (FGM), child marriage, domestic abuse, and sexual violence, FORWARD continues to empower communities and amplify the voices of young women. The Young Women’s Advisory Council plays a central role in shaping this mission.

What is the Young Women’s Advisory Council (YWAC)?

The YWAC is a core leadership body within FORWARD’s organisational structure. It sits at the heart of the organisation’s Young Women’s Leadership Programme and Youth Hub activities. Members serve as ambassadors, advocates, and strategic contributors who help guide the direction of FORWARD’s youth‑focused initiatives.

YWAC members bring diverse experiences, skills, and motivations. Together, they form a collective force committed to transforming the lives of girls and women across African, Black, and minoritised communities.

What YWAC Represents

YWAC members are recognised as:

FORWARD ambassadors — representing the organisation’s values and mission.
Youth leaders — shaping programmes and influencing decision‑making.
Change‑makers — using lived experiences to advocate for equality and justice.

Each member contributes unique insights that help strengthen FORWARD’s work and ensure that young women’s voices remain central to programme design and delivery.

Key Responsibilities of YWAC Members

YWAC members work closely with FORWARD’s Youth Programme staff and take on a variety of strategic and operational responsibilities, including:

Providing strategic advice and guidance on youth‑focused initiatives.
Leading advocacy and campaign work within the Youth Hub.
Representing FORWARD at events across the UK.
Participating in consultations and research on issues affecting young African, Black, and minoritised women.

Roles Available for 2026

FORWARD is recruiting for several leadership and operational positions within the Council:

Co‑Chairs (x2)
Secretary
Operations Officer
Finance and Fundraising Officer
Communications Officer
Outreach Officer

Each role contributes to the smooth functioning, visibility, and impact of the Youth Advisory Council.

Who Should Apply?

You are encouraged to apply if you are:

Passionate about women’s rights, dignity, and equality.
Confident, outspoken, and committed to advocating for your rights.
A strong communicator and collaborative team player.
Open to learning, growth, and leadership development.
Able to volunteer at least one day per month for YWAC activities.
Creative, proactive, and full of new ideas.

What You Gain from Joining YWAC

Becoming a YWAC member offers a wide range of personal and professional benefits:

Opportunity to pursue your passion and make a tangible difference in the lives of women and girls.
Opportunity to build leadership, public speaking, and project development skills.
Access to training and personal development opportunities.
Opportunity to co‑design programmes, facilitate sessions, and deliver youth‑focused events.
Opportunity to connect with like‑minded activists and build lifelong sisterhood networks.