Who We Are

Waltham Forest Women’s Network (WFWN) is a volunteer-led organisation celebrating women’s strength and resilience across the borough. We create safe, inclusive spaces for connection, storytelling, and support. Rooted in collaboration and compassion, we amplify women’s voices and champion gender equality in both community and policy arenas.

Our work spans cultural events, social action, peer mentoring, and spaces for creativity, wellbeing, and leadership. We proudly reflect the diverse experiences of women—young mothers, professionals, migrants, and elders alike.

Our Roots and Evolution

Founded in 2005 by local women challenging isolation and inequality, WFWN grew from grassroots gatherings into a strategic community network. We’ve expanded to address mental health, gender-based violence, digital inclusion, and food poverty, while shaping local policy through partnerships with councils, NHS bodies, and community groups.

Our strength lies in lived experience—many core volunteers face the same challenges we address. This grounds our work in real insight, authenticity, and collective power.

What We Do

WFWN runs programmes that nurture confidence, wellbeing, and leadership. Through workshops, storytelling circles, and skills-building sessions, we help women build supportive peer networks and reclaim their agency.

We’ve spearheaded domestic abuse awareness campaigns, shaped local housing and health consultations, and co-designed the Women’s Health Hub with Healthwatch and the Integrated Care Board. Events like the Menopause Café, wellbeing walks, and roundtables keep us connected to what women need most.

Meet the Team

  • Jackie Grant

    CHAIR

    Jackie, WFWN Chair, is a health coach passionate about women’s health, specialising in PCOS, fibroids & menopause. Based in Waltham Forest.

  • Sabirah Ali

    VICE CHAIR

    Sabirah, WFWN Vice Chair, is an educator focused on inclusion, community cohesion & widening access for under-represented groups in East London.

  • Melanie Walker

    TREASURER

    Melanie, WFWN Treasurer, is an AAT tutor & bookkeeper passionate about equality, access, and supporting future accountants in Waltham Forest.

  • Angelique Belle

    Angelique co-hosts WFWN’s Women’s Health Café. With a finance background, she’s passionate about community & supporting local women.