Survivor-Led  ·  Trauma-Informed  ·  Culturally Rooted

About Wounded Healers International

Survivor-Led.
Community-Rooted.
Globally Connected.

We are a survivor-led organization born in Kenya in 2018 — now reaching women and girls in Kenya, Maine, and around the world. Everything we do is rooted in lived experience, dignity, and the belief that healing is both personal and political.

Who We Are

Our Mission, Vision & Philosophy

Wounded Healers International is a survivor-led nonprofit founded in Kenya in 2018. We support African women and girls affected by sexual violence — in Kenya, in Maine, and online through our global Healing Circle.

Our work is rooted in the belief that healing from trauma is not only personal — it is deeply political and community-based. Survivors carry the knowledge and resilience needed to lead lasting change in their communities.

True healing demands safety, dignity, access to education, economic opportunity, and community belonging. This approach centers survivor leadership, honors cultural context, and integrates trauma-informed care to ensure that every woman and girl has the tools to rebuild her life and the power to shape her future.

Our Vision

“A world where everyone can live without fear of violence, exploitation, and abuse — where human rights are universally respected and upheld.”

Our Mission

“To disrupt and transform cultures of sexual violence through preventative education, holistic survivor support, and empowering African women and girls to break the cycles of violence.”

Our Philosophy

“Healing is not only personal — it is deeply political. Survivors are not just recipients of care; they are leaders of change.”

What Guides Us

Our Core Values

💜

Survivor Centered

WHI prioritizes the well-being of survivors and includes their insights in all efforts to prevent human sexual violence. Survivors lead — we follow.

🦁

Courage

Being brave enough to speak up, act, and seek help is admirable. Wounded Healers use their own experiences to help others overcome struggles — in community.

🤝

Solidarity

We believe in uniting perspectives, emotions, goals, and concerns to achieve significant progress. Our challenges are not unique — but together we can transform.

🌿

Respect

We value everyone we interact with — donors, partners, and communities alike. Diversity is highly valued and we treat everyone with equal kindness and dignity.

Our Journey

From One Circle to a Global Movement

🇰🇪 Kenya

Beginnings in Kenya

Founded as a small support group for women survivors. Multiple community groups formed across Kenya, creating spaces for survivors to share stories and begin healing together.

2018
2019

🇰🇪 Kenya

Official Registration in Kenya

Officially registered as the Wounded Healers Foundation. Expanded to include public education, intervention and advocacy for urgent cases of abuse and exploitation.

🌍 Kenya & USA

Becoming Wounded Healers International

Formally became a 501(c)(3) based in Maine. Launched programs to support African immigrant women through advocacy, healing spaces, and culturally grounded services.

2021
2022

🇰🇪 Kenya

City of Peace Safe House Opens

A rescue and recovery center for survivors of sexual violence offering medical care, counseling, and legal support — a secure space to begin healing.

🇺🇸 Maine, USA

Maine Afro Yoga Project Launches

Trauma-informed movement and mindfulness rooted in African traditions — providing a safe space where women can reclaim their bodies and build belonging.

2023
2023

🇰🇪 Kenya

Community Learning Center Opens

Vocational training in tailoring, crafts and marketable skills — empowering survivors economically and reducing the risk of re-victimization.

🇺🇸 Maine, USA

EmpowerHER Maine Launches

Business training, financial literacy, and mentorship for African women survivors and immigrants in Maine — building pathways to economic independence.

2024

The People Behind the Work

Our Leadership Team

Our team spans Kenya and the United States — united by a shared commitment to survivor-led healing, dignity, and justice.

NG
Nuna Gleason
Executive Director
JW
Josphine Wanjiru
Program Manager
Kenya
AN
Alfine Nathali
Program Manager
Maine
JE
Jina Etienne
Board Chair
DC
Dan Crowley
Vice Chair
KB
Kim Bedard
Treasurer
KBe
Kathy Beach
Secretary
NP
Nina Planson
Member
BM
Berta Medina
Member
SL
Sarah Lyman
Member
JN
Jeff Nischwitz
Member
KD
Kylie Defeo
Member

Our Partners

We Don’t Do This Alone

Wounded Healers International works alongside community organizations, healthcare providers, legal advocates, and global allies to ensure survivors receive holistic, comprehensive support.

Partner logos and names coming soon — reach out to info@woundedhealersintl.org to become a partner.

Join the Movement

Your support helps us reach more survivors — in Kenya, in Maine, and around the world.