With its headquarters in Asia, Women on a Mission (WOAM) is a non-profit organisation that leverages remarkable adventures in different parts of the world to raise awareness and funds for women in need. Co-Founder CHRISTINE AMOUR-LEVAR reflects on the group’s recent epic Namibia tour, which entailed crossing the Namib Desert on an expedition empowering women.
What made you choose Africa’s Namib Desert for your 12th expedition?
This was a deliberate decision, not only to challenge ourselves in a unique and awe-inspiring landscape but also to amplify the mission of Women on a Mission. The expedition was about conquering the world’s oldest desert, but also tackling challenges collectively as a team of women, echoing the resilience of the survivors we support. The Namib, with its vast and ancient beauty, served as a powerful backdrop for our journey. Crossing it as a team of women symbolised breaking through barriers, both geographical and societal. It mirrored the determination and strength we advocate for in our mission to support women survivors of war through transformative expeditions.
What specifically did the adventure entail?
Our Namib Desert Expedition was a groundbreaking endeavour, marking the first time an all-female team has crossed this ancient desert entirely on foot. Covering 144 kilometres over five days and six nights, we scaled imposing sand dunes, experiencing scorching daytime heat and biting cold nights. Our journey began at the Kuiseb River, concluding at the haunting Eduard Bohlen Shipwreck on Namibia’s Skeleton Coast, and with a cumulative elevation gain of 4,188 metres.
What were the biggest challenges trekking through the Namib Desert?
With its vast and ancient beauty, the Namib served as a powerful backdrop for our journey. However, it wasn’t just the awe-inspiring landscapes that tested our mettle. The desert posed a multitude of challenges, from the physically demanding terrain and extreme temperature variations to the relentless winds of the Skeleton Coast. The cold and unforgiving wind added an extra layer of complexity. In the face of these challenges, our footsteps carried the echoes of empowerment. Being the first to traverse the Namib as a team of women reinforced our commitment to vulnerable women around the world.
Most memorable moments?
One that stands out (among many!) was our final evening beneath the Namibian starry sky, surrounded by colonies of seals – a perfect culmination to our expedition. As we drove out on the Skeleton Coast the morning following our expedition, we were greeted by the surreal beauty of salt pans and landscapes dotted with flamingos.
Another highlight was a magical encounter with a little fennec fox, who graced us with its presence and added a touch of enchantment to our camp one night. To us, it symbolised the untamed spirit of the Namib and the unexpected joys woven into our expedition.
Who joined you on the expedition? What were some of their takeaways from the Namibia tour?
Our diverse team comprised 17 women of 12 different nationalities from various backgrounds and corners of the world, including Hong Kong, united by a shared passion for adventure and supporting women’s causes. Each team member gained a profound understanding of the challenges faced by women survivors of war and violence, further solidifying our commitment to supporting organisations like Women for Women International.
For the benefit of new readers, tell us a bit about WOAM and its aims.
Founded in 2012, WOAM blends self-funded expeditions to remote and awe-inspiring global destinations with inspirational fundraising events and workshops, both in Asia and further afield. Our overarching mission is to raise awareness and critical funds to support women survivors of war while also empowering those who have endured violence and abuse. The strategic approach at WOAM involves organising annual campaigns and challenging expeditions. These endeavours serve a dual purpose: to enhance visibility and to generate vital funds for specific charitable causes. We collaborate with established non-profit organisations already equipped with well-structured programmes dedicated to assisting marginalised populations, with a particular emphasis on addressing women’s issues.
What did the group achieve during the Namibia tour?
The expedition raised an impressive US$70,000 – and these funds are not just a number; they’re a lifeline for women survivors of war in Ukraine, Afghanistan and Sudan. Through our strategic partnership with Women for Women International, these resources will be channelled into programmes that provide practical skills, education and economic opportunities. It’s about rebuilding lives and offering a pathway to independence.
Beyond fundraising, our journey served as a testament to the strength and resilience of women, inspiring others to support causes dedicated to women’s empowerment.
Tell us about the visit to Penduka at the end of your expedition empowering women.
Penduka is a women’s centre for survivors of domestic violence that we visited on our final day; the experience provided us with a profound connection to the challenges faced by women in Namibia. Penduka stands out for its commitment to empowering women to not only overcome domestic violence but also build sustainable livelihoods. Engaging in creative endeavours such as crafting beautiful textiles offers a source of income but also serves as a symbol of resilience and strength emerging from adversity.
What makes Penduka truly exceptional is its holistic approach, addressing the multifaceted needs of women. Beyond individual empowerment, its impact extends to families and entire communities, positively influencing lives on a broader scale. Our encounter with the women there only solidified our deep commitment to supporting women’s causes globally.
What’s next?
WOAM remains committed to inspiring women to embrace adventure while supporting some of the world’s most marginalised women. Our next endeavour is yet to be unveiled, although we are considering remote and magical places like Tibet and Nicaragua, and we hope to continue to push boundaries, raise awareness and contribute to organisations championing the rights and wellbeing of women around the world.
Interested in supporting or joining an expedition empowering women? Find out more about Women on a Mission at womenmission.com.
This article about the WOAM Namibia tour and desert adventure first appeared in the Spring 2024 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue.
