Our Story

Young Women Emerge was born from a lifelong dream — and a partnership built on trust.

For years, Thérèse Nzale, Executive Director and a Congolese leader deeply rooted in her community, carried a vision: a space where girls and young women in the Democratic Republic of Congo could access real opportunities — education, practical skills, and strong mentorship — and build independent futures.

In 2020, while working in the DRC, Thérèse met Danielle Prince, an American advocate with decades of experience in education, philanthropy, and organizational leadership. What began as a professional collaboration quickly revealed something deeper: shared values, shared urgency, and a shared belief that girls deserve more than survival — they deserve options.

Together, they saw the gap clearly. Too many girls were leaving school early. Too few had access to vocational pathways. Almost none had structured, long-term mentorship.

In 2024, that vision became Young Women Emerge. Built as a Congolese-led organization, YWE focuses on three pillars:

• Education – keeping girls in school and supporting academic success

• Vocational Training – opening doors to non-traditional and income-generating careers

• Mentoring – consistent guidance, accountability, and community

YWE is not charity. It is investment.

It is built on the belief that when a girl is educated, trained, and mentored, she does not just change her own life — she strengthens her family, her community, and her country.

Young Women Emerge exists because one woman dared to dream — and two women chose to build.

And this is only the beginning.