We believe that when women and their communities thrive, the world transforms.
Omena Institute uplifts changemakers and community-rooted knowledge that drives public policies and systems change to improve outcomes for women and their communities globally. We focus on creating the conditions for women to thrive, lead, and influence the decisions that shape their lives.
A world where public systems are designed with and for the people most impacted, where women’s well-being is prioritized, and their leadership drives lasting, equitable change for their communities and generations to come.
We combine research, storytelling, and strategic learning to bridge lived experience with policy influence. Our work centers the needs of women historically excluded from decision-making and builds power to change those systems at local, national, and global levels.
Omena Institute advances its mission through four interconnected strategies:
We conduct equity-driven research and policy analysis that elevates community-centered solutions and supports advocacy efforts around the world. Our work is participatory, accessible, and focused on the real-life impact on women and their communities.
A weekly global podcast that amplifies the stories of women changemakers whose leadership is advancing gender and racial equity. Each episode is a conversation across geographic, cultural, and political borders!
We create inclusive, transnational spaces for reflection, learning, and connection among those working to advance gender and racial equity.
A quarterly, membership-based book club featuring powerful works by BIWOC authors from around the globe. Participants engage in guided conversations, reflective journaling, and a private community space to explore the intersections of identity, justice, and leadership.
We speak at conferences, academic institutions, and global gatherings on topics like gender equity, care policy, global women’s leadership, and community power. Our engagements are designed to spark insight, challenge systems, and energize action
We use storytelling and media to challenge harmful narratives, elevate community wisdom, and expand what’s possible for women and girls worldwide.
We partner with coalitions, networks, and institutions to co-design global and local convenings that center women’s well-being and shared leadership. From international dialogues to cross-border learning cohorts, we support collective action across contexts.