ZamZam Foundation’s mission is to improve the lives of women and girls in Afghanistan and the ACT, through education and advocacy.

After commencing work supporting Afghan girls to achieve an education, ZamZam has started offering support to the community of Afghan refugees in the Canberra region. Many have arrived since the Taliban seized control in August 2021. The combined trauma of leaving family and friends (many of whom died); leaving behind almost everything they owned; and trying to adjust to a whole new language and culture is enormous.

ZamZam has started its local support by developing and publishing a short book with information to assist newly arrived refugees and migrants from Afghanistan, a project funded through a grant from the Migration Council of Australia.

This new scope for ZamZam will build on our reputation as a trusted community organisation bridging Australian and Afghan cultures.

ZamZam plans to offer driving and swimming lessons, especially for women who have fled Afghanistan and now call Canberra home. Subject to funding, we also plan to run women’s support groups, provide advice on accessing maternal health services, and support to build the cultural divide for Afghan refugees arriving in Australia.