About
Our Story
The Afghan Women’s Organisation Victoria (AWOV) was born from courage, community, and the determination of Afghan women to support one another.
In 2009, a group of Afghan women in Victoria came together after witnessing firsthand the challenges faced by women in their community- social isolation, language barriers, limited access to services, and a lack of culturally safe support. Many Afghan women were navigating settlement, motherhood, trauma, and identity in a new country, often without the resources or confidence to ask for help.
Recognising this gap, AWOV was co-founded by Gula Bezhan OAM who believed that change begins when women are supported by women who understand their lived experiences.
What began as a small grassroots initiative quickly grew into a trusted, community-led organisation dedicated to empowering Afghan women and families to rebuild their lives with dignity, confidence, and independence.
From Grassroots to Community Leader
Since its establishment, AWOV has evolved into a leading by women-for-women organisation delivering culturally and linguistically appropriate services to Afghan women, children, and families across Victoria.
We provide settlement support through the Settlement Engagement and Transition Support (SETS) Program, alongside a wide range of community programs, workshops, and advocacy initiatives. Our services are delivered in English, Dari, and Pashto, ensuring accessibility, trust, and meaningful engagement.
AWOV is deeply rooted in the community we serve. Our programs are informed by lived experience, guided by consultation, and designed to respond to real needs, whether that’s helping a woman gain her driver’s licence, supporting an elderly community member, or creating safe spaces for learning, connection, and leadership.
Founder Spotlight: Gula Bezhan OAM
Gula Bezhan OAM is the visionary founder of the Afghan Women’s Organisation Victoria (AWOV). In 2009, she co-founded the organisation after recognising the urgent need for culturally safe support services for Afghan women and families in Victoria. With compassion, courage, and a deep commitment to community, Gula set out to create a space where women could access essential services, build confidence, and reclaim their voices.
Under her leadership, AWOV has grown from a small grassroots initiative into a trusted community organisation, delivering settlement support, empowerment programs, and advocacy initiatives across Victoria and internationally. Gula’s tireless work has been recognised with the Order of Australia Medal (OAM), reflecting her enduring impact on women, families, and the broader community.
We believe all women and girls can embrace who they are,
can define their future, and can change the world.
Our Mission
To empower Afghan women and girls by championing equality, advancing women's rights, and ensuring access to essential services, information, and social justice. AWOV is dedicated to fostering a society where Afghan women are valued, supported, and equipped to lead empowered lives.
We commit to addressing the critical issues affecting Afghan women through impactful programs, advocacy, and initiatives that drive meaningful change. As a united voice for Afghan women, we strive to promote inclusivity, amplify their voices, and create a future built on equality and opportunity.
Our Vision
A future where Afghan women and girls are empowered socially, politically, and economically, with equal rights, education, and opportunities. We envision a society that values and celebrates women’s contributions in leadership, caregiving, and all aspects of life.
Our goal is a world where all women have the freedom to make their own choices, the confidence to succeed, and the support to reach their full potential.
Our Team
Gula Bezhan
Chief Executive Officer
Donya Wahidi
Administration Officer
Marlena Kupczyk
Operations Manager
Muzhda Azizi
Senior Worker
Shahnaz Sultani
Community Liaison Officer
Asma Tawakli
Senior Worker
Narges Bahrami
Community Liaison Officer
Board Members
Onnie Wilson
Sanam Wahidi
Angela Taft
Masooda Fikircier
Farida Bezhan
Anisa Zahidee
Fazia Zeerak