We learnt how AWGS started 30 years ago, how they were proactive in assessing and responding to women’s needs, creating a space for women to thrive in a new environment (30 years ago there was a very small migrant community in Aberdeen). The initial recognition was that we came together to ‘sharpen’ each other. -Recognition of the skills and qualifications that African women bring – Work coaching to enhance women’s employability in a new country – Sharing experiences – Documenting our story – African women have been in Scotland for over 500 years – Bottom up approach, women setting the agenda – Building the capacity of organisation management to interact with key agencies – Challenging negative narratives concerning African women – Building the capacity and confidence of women as individuals – Developing a can do attitude – Encouraging women to get involved in politics

We also learnt what has kept the AWGS going for 30 years: -Passion -Focusing on the vision -Consistency -No self interest

The exchange was warm and collaborative, marked by open dialogue, shared meals, and mutual learning. Activities included:
• A round table discussion where both groups shared their journeys, successes, and challenges.
• Reflections on strategies that support women’s leadership, personal development, and community involvement.
• A communal meal that encouraged informal connections and strengthened cultural and emotional bonds.
• A knowledge exchange focused on governance, programme design, outreach strategies, and sustaining
engagement over time.

Learning Outcomes

1. Strengthening Relationships: A strong and meaningful connection was established between Sharpen Her and the African Women’s Group Scotland (AWGS). This relationship laid the foundation for future collaboration, shared programming, and peer support.
2. Clarity of Purpose (“The Why”): One of the most powerful takeaways was the importance of staying grounded in the organisation’s core purpose. The Aberdeen group’s success and longevity are in part due to their unwavering commitment to their “Why”—the core mission of uplifting and advancing African women.
3. Needs-Led Programming: Effective programming begins with truly understanding the needs of women in the community. The AWGS demonstrated how they continuously listen, adapt, and respond to the lived realities of their members, ensuring relevance and impact in their work.
4. Additional Insights
   • Sustainability Through Consistency: Regular, consistent meetings and activities contribute to strong community trust and participation.
   • Collaborative Leadership: Shared leadership models and empowering women at every level of engagement strengthens ownership and resilience.
   • Cultural Anchoring: Celebrating cultural identity and lived experience fosters belonging and strengthens the network’s sense of purpose.

"This was a highly successful and inspiring engagement for Sharpen Her. The visit reinforced the value of collaboration, peer learning, and purposeful connection within the wider community of African women in Scotland. Sharpen Her returned from Aberdeen with renewed focus, actionable insights, and a growing sisterhood dedicated to the empowerment of African women. We extend our gratitude to the African Women’s Group in Aberdeen for their warmth, openness, and generosity. We look forward to future opportunities for shared learning and collective growth. Further thanks go to the Scottish Community Alliance for offering us the opportunity to learn from a big sister organisation. We are very grateful."