OUR STORY
From Vision to Impact: Empowering Women Since 2018
Founded in 2018 in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, WUSD began as a grassroots initiative by a group of women determined to tackle gender inequality through skills training and economic empowerment.
What started as small workshops in local communities has grown into a registered NGO impacting thousands of women across Rivers State. Over the years, we’ve:
- Trained 1,200+ women in vocational skills (tailoring, catering, tech).
- Launched 5 flagship programs, including our Women’s Leadership Academy (2020) and Digital Equity Initiative (2022).
- Partnered with 15+ local businesses to create job placements for graduates. Advocated for policy changes in gender inclusion and workplace equity. Today, WUSD stands as a beacon of hope, proving that when women unite, they don’t just transform their own lives, they uplift entire communities.
- Trained 1,200+ women in vocational skills (tailoring, catering, tech).
- Launched 5 flagship programs, including our Women’s Leadership Academy (2020) and Digital Equity Initiative (2022).
- Partnered with 15+ local businesses to create job placements for graduates. Advocated for policy changes in gender inclusion and workplace equity. Today, WUSD stands as a beacon of hope, proving that when women unite, they don’t just transform their own lives, they uplift entire communities.
- Mentorship Networks
- Community Outreach & Advocacy
- Digital & Tech Education
- Policy Advocacy
OUR RESULTS
What We Did?
5+Years of Women's Empowerment
950+Women Trained & Empowered
15+Communities Reached
85%Success Rate
TESTIMONIALS
What our Women are Saying?
"Before WUSD, I had no way to support my children. After their 6-month tailoring program,
I started my own fashion business. Now, I train other women too!"
"Before WUSD, I had no way to support my children. After their 6-month tailoring program,
I started my own fashion business. Now, I train other women too!"
"Before WUSD, I had no way to support my children. After their 6-month tailoring program,
I started my own fashion business. Now, I train other women too!"
Meet Our Founder
Chief. Sotonye Fulton Toby
A passionate advocate for women's empowerment and community development, Chief Sotonye Fulton Toby founded Women Unite for Skills and Development (WUSD) in 2018 with a bold vision: to break cycles of poverty by equipping women in Port Harcourt and beyond with practical skills and opportunities. With over 20 years of experience in community leadership, business, and activism, Chief Toby has dedicated her life to creating pathways for marginalized women to achieve economic independence and social influence. Her hands-on leadership style and commitment to grassroots change have been instrumental in WUSD’s growth from a small initiative to a transformative force in Rivers State.Who can join WUSD programs?
Our programs are open to all women aged 18+ in Port Harcourt and neighboring communities. We prioritize vulnerable groups (e.g., single mothers, unemployed women, and survivors of gender-based violence), but no one is turned away for inability to pay.
Are WUSD trainings free?
Most of our vocational and leadership programs are fully funded by donors and partners. A few advanced courses (e.g., specialized tech training) may require minimal fees, but scholarships are available based on need.
Do you help graduates start businesses?
Yes! Our post-training support includes:
Startup kits (e.g., sewing machines, baking tools).
Microfinance partnerships for small loans.
Mentorship from established entrepreneurs.
Can men support WUSD?
Absolutely! While our programs serve women, men are welcome as volunteers, donors, and advocates. We also host mixed-gender workshops on topics like gender equality and allyship.
