About Afghanistan Women Council

Introduction

Afghanistan Women Council (AWC) is a community-based humanitarian organization founded in 1986 by Afghan women dedicated to supporting families during times of hardship and change. For nearly four decades, AWC has worked quietly and consistently across communities in Afghanistan, providing practical assistance, educational support, and local outreach rooted in dignity and compassion.

Our Story

AWC was established during a time of conflict when Afghan women, widows, families, and displaced communities faced severe challenges. Guided by a belief in the resilience of women and the importance of community, AWC began offering small but meaningful forms of assistance—basic supplies, learning opportunities, and emotional support.

Over the years, AWC has grown into a trusted presence across several regions, working through long-standing grassroots networks. Our focus has remained the same: strengthening families, supporting women, and helping communities rebuild their lives with dignity.

Our Mission

To provide practical, compassionate support to women and families across Afghanistan through education, livelihood opportunities, household assistance, winter support, and community-based programs that nurture resilience and stability.

Our Values

Compassion – serving families with empathy and respect

Trust – working through long-standing community relationships

Dignity – supporting women and families with care and confidentiality

Resilience – helping households rebuild and strengthen their lives

Hope – offering support that uplifts, encourages, and sustains

Our Founder – Fatana Gailani

Afghanistan Women Council was founded in 1986 by Fatana Gailani, a respected humanitarian leader known for her lifelong dedication to supporting Afghan women, children, and families. For decades, she has been a steady voice of compassion and service, guiding AWC through times of conflict, change, and rebuilding.

Fatana has led AWC with deep commitment, working through community networks, local women leaders, and trusted relationships built over many years. Her vision has always been simple and powerful:
to help families live with dignity and hope, no matter the circumstances.

Today, Fatana continues to inspire AWC’s work, shaping programs that support vulnerable households, strengthen resilience, and bring encouragement to communities across Afghanistan.

“Every act of compassion makes a home stronger, a family safer, and a community more hopeful.”
— Fatana Gailani, Founder, AWC