Empowering marginalized
and at-risk adolescent girls and young women in Zambia

About us

Vision of Hope Zambia (VoHZ) is a registered Non-profit and community-based Organization, recognized by the Government of the Republic of Zambia (Registration Number: 79527). We are dedicated to supporting marginalized adolescent girls and young women (AGYW), including survivors of human trafficking and sexual and gender-based violence. Through our safe home, we provide a secure and nurturing environment where girls at risk can access essential services, such as healthcare, nutritious meals, clothing, education, trauma-informed counseling, and emotional support. Our goal is to create a sense of stability, safety, and belonging that allows each girl to reclaim her childhood in a family-like setting, and whenever possible, be reunited with family. By partnering with government, communities as well as international and local organizations, VoHZ takes a holistic approach that addresses both immediate needs and long-term recovery.

Founding History

Vision of Hope Zambia was established in July 2009 by Chitalu Chishimba, a Zambian native, and Meg O’Brien, together with other dedicated individuals. Having previously worked with marginalized adolescent girls and young women alongside various international organizations, Chitalu recognized the urgent need for safe, gender-responsive services to support girls living on the streets of Lusaka—many of whom face HIV/AIDS and other severe vulnerabilities.

In November 2009, the first VoHZ shelter opened in Chawama compound (slum). This marked the organization’s shift from weekly outreach programs to providing long-term, supervised care for girls at-risk.

In September 2016, Vision of Hope Zambia established its permanent center in Chamba Valley, with the invaluable support of various strategic partners who believed in our mission. Offering not only shelter and reintegration support services to approximately 30 AGYW per year, but expanding its services to community prevention programs (such as SRHR), family strengthening (saving groups) and running a skills development centre. As of 2025, we operate with a dedicated team of 13 staff members, delivering full-time residential care, running community-based outreach initiatives, and continuing to advocate for gender equity, building a society where at-risk adolescent girls and young women achieve empowerment, self-sufficiency, and dignity.

Empowering marginalized and at risk adolescent girls and young women by providing social safety, education, life skills and family reunification opportunities.

Mission

Support us

Whether it’s a financial contribution to support our programming efforts, in-kind donations like clothing or food, or simply visiting our shelter to purchase our hand-crafted products — every contribution helps us grow stronger.

We also welcome corporate partnerships to expand our impact. Reach out to us via WhatsApp or email — we’d love to hear from you!

What we need on an ongoing basis

Funds for general operating costs of running the safe house, including utilities, rent, program support, staff and administrative expenses, medical care, school fees, nutritional support, and overall operational sustainability.
Funds for income generating activities (e.g. sewing) to cover raw materials and instructors.
Programming support for youth-focused community activities.

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Our Programs

Educational Support

VoHZ provides educational support to girls both within our care and in the surrounding community.

We also grant access to tertiary institutions in areas such as tailoring and general hospitality to equip them for independent, sustainable futures.

Life Skills

We provide training in sewing, nail-art, crafts, cooking, and other income-generating activities, along with life skills development including communication, decision-making, and emotional regulation - to build self-confidence and support personal growth.

Saving Groups

VoHZ works with 45 (~1125 women) savings groups in Lusaka to build members’ skills in financial literacy, savings, and small loans, promoting economic independence and community resilience. As a result, young and elderly women are able to improve the financial stability and well-being of their families.

HIV and Community Outreach

Vision of Hope Zambia has formed peer-to-peer school clubs and conducts outreach programs in Lusaka to raise awareness about HIV as well as alcohol and substance abuse among adolescents and youth. We partner with other stakeholders to strengthen the community support network.

Core Values

Dignity & Respect

Integrity & Accountability

Professionalism

We recognize and uphold the inherent worth of every adolescent girl and young woman (AGYW). Through compassion, support, and trauma-informed care, we promote their self-respect, confidence, and ability to shape their own futures.

We act ethically and transparently, building trust with AGYW and our partners, through responsible use of resources and open communication.

We are committed to professionalism, maintaining high standards of quality, efficiency, and care in all aspects of our work.

Equality & Inclusion

Confidentiality & Protection

Honesty

We treat all individuals fairly and without discrimination. Our programs are inclusive and rooted in the belief that every AGYW deserves equal rights, opportunities, and support—regardless of her background.

We safeguard the privacy and stories of every resident in our care. Protecting their identity and experiences is essential to creating a safe space.

We create a secure and nurturing environment where every AGYW feels safe, supported, and free to heal. Trust & Honesty is the foundation of all our relationships—with the AGYW we serve, our partners, and each other.

Empowering marginalized and at-risk adolescent girls and young women in Zambia