TOWAF — Where every woman finds her light
We are a 501(c)(3) public charity based in Roseville, CA, dedicated to empowering immigrant and Black women through skills training, cultural connection, and community leadership. Through shared stories and hands-on programs, we help women move from uncertainty to leadership.
About TOWAF
TOWAF was founded by Fetien Abay Abera out of small neighborhood gatherings in Roseville where immigrant women began to share their stories and support each other. The organization grew into a registered 501(c)(3) public charity because those small conversations revealed a universal truth: when women are given support, opportunity and voice, entire communities thrive.
Our mission: to empower immigrant and Black women through practical training, leadership development and cultural connection — so they can lead with confidence, create economic opportunities for their families, and enrich the civic life of their communities.
Voice & Vision
Monthly workshops that focus on public speaking, resume building, interview coaching and leadership. Practical, hands-on sessions led by experienced mentors—many of whom started in our own programs.
Roots & Wings
Family-centered programs that build stronger parent-child relationships, celebrate cultural heritage, and help families navigate school systems and local resources.
Community Days
Festivals and pop-up events that bring cultures together through food, art, storytelling, and community resource fairs.
Scholarship & Career Fund
Support for vocational training and short-term certifications to accelerate economic stability for new arrivals.
Light Beyond Borders — Event Details
Join us on December 15, 2025 at the Civic Center of Roseville for an evening of stories, culture, and community action. This signature event is a cornerstone of our annual outreach and fundraising efforts and is designed to celebrate resilience while raising funds for the 2026 program expansion.
- "Journey Portraits" Exhibition: A photo and audio gallery featuring women who have rebuilt their lives through TOWAF.
- Voice of Change Forum: Panel discussions with grassroots leaders, employers and alumnae who share practical pathways to leadership.
- Multicultural Performances: Live music, dance and storytelling that reflect the diversity of our community.
- Community Auction: Experiences and handcrafted items donated by local artists; proceeds fund vocational scholarships.
Every ticket and donation helps expand our hands-on programs: more workshops, more mentorship hours, and more scholarships to women who otherwise lack access. Beyond dollars, your presence shows up as affirmation — a powerful message to women who are learning to trust themselves and reclaim their stories.
Limited seating. Reserve early by emailing us (subject: Event Reservation). For group reservations or sponsorship opportunities, please indicate your interest in the message.
Last year’s festival helped raise funds for 40 vocational scholarships and connected 120 women with mentors and job-readiness coaching. Our goal for 2026 is to double scholarship recipients and launch two new mobile workshops that serve neighboring counties.
Become part of the movement
TOWAF is driven by volunteers, partners, donors and the courageous women who step forward to share their stories. Here are practical ways to join:
- Volunteer: Help run workshops, mentor program participants, or assist at events.
- Donate: Support our Scholarship & Career Fund to provide tangible pathways to independence.
- Partner: Local businesses and organizations can offer in-kind support, job placements or training spots.
- Share: Tell our story — invite neighbors, employers, and community leaders to learn and act with us.
Join us. One small act of solidarity can become a lifetime of change.