Wednesday marked a momentous occasion as we gathered to celebrate the achievements of our H.O.P.E Leadership Cohort 4 at their showcase event on February 4th, 2026. The energy in the room was electric as we witnessed the transformation and growth of leaders dedicated to combating violence against women and girls (VAWG) and driving meaningful change in their communities.
This incredible cohort would not have been possible without the generous support of MOPAC, City Bridge, and Drive Partnership, whose funding has enabled us to continue this vital work. Their commitment to developing strong, informed leaders in the VAWG sector demonstrates the power of partnership in creating lasting social impact.
The showcase highlighted the remarkable journey these leaders have taken. When Cohort 4 participants first began the program, they identified clear areas where they wanted to grow. An impressive 69% sought clarity on leadership models and styles, 62% were eager to learn more about navigating funding landscapes, and 50% wanted to deepen their understanding of workplace psychology. These weren’t just statistics—they represented real aspirations from passionate individuals ready to level up their leadership capabilities.
Throughout the program, participants worked alongside expert facilitators including April Dawn, Imran Manzoor, Suzanne Jacobs, Alka Mistry, and Saba Ali, plus more who brought their wealth of knowledge and experience to guide these emerging leaders. The program’s rigor and impact have been carefully monitored by Dr Roxanne Khan, Director of onEvidence, and Paul Morris from onEvidence, who are evaluating the program to ensure we’re delivering meaningful outcomes and continuously improving our approach. Sandra Pollock OBE as our coach and trainer and Sarah Wigley always a delight to work with. Wihtout Dr Olumide Adisa this work is not possible- thank you
What makes the H.O.P.E Leadership program truly special is its evidence-based foundation. Our ripple effect mapping is tracking the long-term impact of the VAWG leadership program on previous cohorts from 2023 to 2028, demonstrating how leadership development creates waves of positive change that extend far beyond the initial training. This data-driven approach showcases the H.O.P.E VAWG Leadership theory of change in action, proving that investing in leaders creates sustainable transformation across the sector.
As we celebrated Cohort 4’s achievements yesterday, we also looked to the future with excitement. Cohort 5 is scheduled to begin in November 2026, and we’re actively seeking funding partners who share our vision of developing exceptional leaders equipped to end violence against women and girls. The success stories from Cohort 4 underscore why this work must continue.
The showcase event wasn’t just about reflecting on growth—it was about celebration, connection, and community. As participants shared their learnings, challenges overcome, and future aspirations, the room buzzed with possibility and purpose. These leaders are now better equipped to navigate complex funding environments, implement effective leadership strategies, and create psychologically safe workplaces that empower their teams.
To Cohort 4: Your dedication, courage, and commitment inspire us all. You’ve proven that leadership isn’t just about position—it’s about impact, integrity, and the willingness to grow. As you move forward, you carry with you not just new skills, but a community of fellow leaders committed to the same cause.
#HOPEleadership continues to grow stronger with each cohort, and yesterday’s showcase was a powerful reminder of why this work matters
