Community & Empowerment

Creating Opportunities for Nigerian Women

We are a collective of 300 women in Imo State, Nigeria, creating sustainable livelihoods through cooperative savings, mutual support, and economic empowerment programs.

Join Our Movement Learn About Membership
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Transforming Lives Through Empowerment

Our cooperative is more than just a savings group—it's a movement. By pooling resources and supporting each other's businesses, we're creating sustainable change that ripples through families, communities, and generations.

300+ Women Empowered

Directly supporting female members with cooperative benefits, skills training, and leadership development.

1 Phase Completed

Successfully completed Phase 1 of our 5-phase empowerment program for 1000 women.

37→65→300 Growth Journey

Started with 37 women, grew to 102, and now 300 strong women members.

African woman artisan
African woman smiling
African woman working
African woman with traditional attire
African woman artisan weaving
African woman with vibrant headwrap
African woman artisan
African woman smiling
African woman working
African woman with traditional attire
African woman artisan weaving
African woman with vibrant headwrap
African woman artisan
African woman smiling
African woman working
African woman with traditional attire
African woman artisan weaving
African woman with vibrant headwrap

Meet Our Visionary Leaders

Our cooperative is guided by a diverse group of women leaders who have dedicated their lives to empowering artisans and preserving cultural heritage. Each leader brings unique expertise and a shared commitment to creating sustainable change.

Know More
Amina Diallo
Lady Amb. Rejoice Azubuike.
Founder & Director
Fatoumata Keita
Elder Florence O.
Assistant Director
Ngozi Okoro
Dr. Joy Mbamalu
Finance Manager
Zahra Abdi
Leona Onyeonoro
Administrative Officer
Mariam Sow
Ogechi Ali
communication Officer
Grace Mensah
Ngozi Madu
Empowerment Coord.
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Our Story

Our Journey of Empowerment

From a small group of 37 women to a growing cooperative of 300 members, transforming women's lives through mutual support and economic empowerment.

2018

The Humble Beginning

First meeting of the cooperative

Founded in Imo State, Nigeria by 37 visionary women who came together to create a support system for economic empowerment through cooperative savings and mutual assistance.

37 Founding Members
1 Community
2019

Rapid Growth Phase

Cooperative growth

Our success attracted 65 additional women who joined our movement, expanding our reach and impact across Imo State. We established our formal cooperative structure and began dividend distributions.

102 Total Members
5 Local Chapters
2021

Strategic Expansion

Strategic planning

Developed our 5-phase empowerment program with a goal to reach 1000 women. Launched financial literacy programs and began planning for our microfinance banking initiative to provide better loan access for members.

200 Phase 1 Target
5 Year Plan
2023

Phase 1 Completion

Phase 1 celebration

Successfully completed Phase 1 of our empowerment program, reaching 300 members. Strengthened our cooperative model with improved dividend distribution systems and expanded our community impact initiatives.

300+ Women Members
1 Phase Completed
2024

Microfinance Initiative

Microfinance planning

Launching Phase 2 of our empowerment program and advancing plans to establish our microfinance bank. This will revolutionize access to capital for our members and women across Imo State.

200 Phase 2 Target
1 Bank Initiative
2025+

Future Vision

Future vision

Our goal is to complete all 5 phases of our empowerment program, reaching 1000 women by 2028. We aim to establish a fully operational microfinance bank and expand our cooperative model to other states in Nigeria.

1000 Women Target
3 More Phases

Become Part of Our Story

Join our movement to empower women through cooperative savings and economic development in Imo State and beyond.

Join Our Cooperative Learn About Membership

Our Foundation

Our Mission & Core Values

Guided by principles that empower women, foster economic independence, and create sustainable change through cooperative enterprise.

Our Mission

To empower Nigerian women through cooperative savings, financial literacy, and mutual support systems that create sustainable economic opportunities and foster community development.

Economic Empowerment
Financial Inclusion
Community Development

Our Core Values

Women Empowerment

We believe in the transformative power of women supporting women. Our cooperative creates spaces where women can lead, innovate, and achieve economic independence.

Mutual Support

We prioritize collective wellbeing over individual gain. Every member contributes to and benefits from our shared success through our cooperative model.

Financial Prudence

We practice responsible financial management, ensuring sustainable growth and fair dividend distribution to all our members.

Transparency

We maintain open communication and transparent operations in all our financial dealings and decision-making processes.

Sustainable Growth

We focus on long-term, sustainable development that benefits current members while building a legacy for future generations.

Continuous Learning

We invest in financial literacy, business skills, and leadership training to empower our members with knowledge for lifelong success.

Creating Lasting Impact

Through our mission-driven approach, we've created a sustainable cooperative model that not only provides financial security but also builds confidence, leadership skills, and community resilience.

300+ Women members achieving financial independence
5 Year strategic empowerment plan
100% Member-focused dividend distribution

Our Unique Approach

What Sets Us Apart

Discover the distinctive elements that make our cooperative a transformative force in women's economic empowerment in Nigeria.

Women Cooperative Meeting

Member-Owned Cooperative Model

Unlike traditional savings groups, our cooperative is entirely owned and governed by the women members themselves. Every member has an equal voice in decision-making and shares in the success through our dividend distribution system.

  • Democratic governance structure
  • Equal voting rights for all members
  • Transparent dividend distribution

Structured Growth Plan

Our unique 5-phase empowerment program systematically scales our impact, aiming to reach 1000 women through carefully planned expansion phases of 200 women each.

5 Strategic Phases
200 Women per Phase

Microfinance Vision

We're pioneering the transition from cooperative to microfinance banking to provide enhanced financial services specifically designed for women entrepreneurs.

Financial Training

Holistic Empowerment

We go beyond financial support to provide comprehensive programs including financial literacy, business skills training, and leadership development.

Proven Growth Trajectory

From 37 founding members to 65 additional joiners to our current 300 members, we've demonstrated sustainable, organic growth rooted in community trust.

Strategic Community Impact

Our model creates ripple effects beyond our membership. As women achieve financial stability, they reinvest in their families and communities, creating multiplier effects that transform entire neighborhoods in Imo State.

300+ Families impacted
5 Local chapters established
3x Average income improvement
Community Impact

Cultural Relevance

Our programs are specifically designed for the Nigerian context, respecting cultural values while promoting progressive economic empowerment for women.

Intergenerational Approach

We blend the wisdom of experienced members with the energy of younger women, creating a dynamic learning environment that preserves traditional knowledge while embracing innovation.

"This cooperative didn't just give me financial security—it gave me a voice and a community that supports my dreams."

Experience the Difference

Join hundreds of women who are transforming their lives through our unique cooperative model.

Become a Member

What We Offer

Our Services

Comprehensive support for women at every stage of their financial and entrepreneurial journey.

Cooperative Savings

Loan Facilities

Financial Literacy

Community Support

Women Empowerment Hub

Secure Cooperative Savings

Our structured savings program helps members build financial security through regular contributions and earn dividends on their savings.

Regular Savings Plan

Flexible contribution options tailored to members' financial capabilities with disciplined saving habits.

Dividend Distribution

Transparent profit-sharing system where members receive dividends based on their savings and participation.

Emergency Funds

Access to emergency withdrawals for unexpected financial needs with member-approved guidelines.

Learn About Savings Plans

Member Loan Facilities

We provide accessible loan options to help members start or grow their businesses, cover educational expenses, or manage emergencies.

Business Development Loans

Low-interest loans for entrepreneurial ventures with flexible repayment terms and business mentoring.

Educational Support Loans

Financial assistance for members and their children's education to break cycles of poverty through knowledge.

Emergency Loans

Quick-access funds for urgent needs with simplified application processes for members in good standing.

Explore Loan Options

Financial Literacy Programs

We empower members with essential financial knowledge and skills for better money management and long-term wealth building.

Basic Financial Management

Training in budgeting, saving, and debt management tailored for women with varying financial backgrounds.

Business Skills Development

Workshops on business planning, marketing, customer service, and record-keeping for entrepreneurs.

Investment Education

Guidance on safe investment opportunities and wealth preservation strategies for long-term financial security.

View Training Schedule

Community & Networking

We build supportive communities that nurture personal growth, business connections, and collective empowerment.

Peer Mentorship

Experienced members mentor newcomers, fostering knowledge sharing and strong support networks.

Business Networking

Regular meetings and events that connect members for business opportunities and collaborative ventures.

Leadership Development

Training and opportunities for women to take on leadership roles within the cooperative and their communities.

Join Our Community

Download Our Resources

Explore our comprehensive guides, membership information, and impact reports to learn more about our work.

Membership Guide

Complete Membership Information

Everything you need to know about joining GWMCS - benefits, requirements, and membership process.

PDF, 1.8 MB Updated: March 2024
Download Guide

Impact Report 2024

Annual Impact & Progress Report

Comprehensive overview of our achievements, financial transparency, and member success stories.

PDF, 2.4 MB Q1 2024 Report
Download Report

Financial Literacy

Basic Financial Education

Essential guide to money management, savings strategies, and basic investment principles.

PDF, 3.1 MB Educational Material
Download Guide

Partnership Guide

Collaboration Opportunities

Information for organizations, donors, and partners interested in supporting our empowerment mission.

PDF, 2.1 MB Partnership Info
Download Guide

Media Kit

Press & Media Resources

Brand assets, fact sheets, and information for journalists and media professionals.

PDF, 4.2 MB Media Resources
Download Kit

Training Calendar

2024 Workshop Schedule

Complete schedule of our financial literacy, business skills, and leadership training programs.

PDF, 1.5 MB Annual Schedule
Download Calendar

Want Physical Copies?

We'd be happy to send you printed versions of our brochures and catalogs.

Request Printed Materials

Our Vision for Economic Impact

Strategic Industry Expansion

Building on our cooperative success, we're planning strategic entry into key industries to create sustainable wealth generation and economic empowerment for our members.

7+ Target Industries
5-Year Implementation Plan
1000+ Women to Benefit

Diversified Investment

Strategic entry into multiple sectors to create resilient income streams and employment opportunities

Member Ownership

All ventures will be collectively owned by cooperative members, ensuring shared prosperity

Our Vision for Growth
Banking
Agriculture
Real Estate

Our Strategic Industry Targets

Building economic power through diversified ventures and collective ownership

Banking & Microfinance

Establishing our own microfinance bank to provide specialized financial services for women entrepreneurs and small businesses

  • Women-focused lending
  • Small business loans
  • Savings products
  • Financial advisory

Agriculture & Agribusiness

Developing cooperative farms and agribusiness ventures to ensure food security and create agricultural value chains

  • Cooperative farming
  • Food processing
  • Export opportunities
  • Modern farming tech

Real Estate & Housing

Creating affordable housing solutions for members and developing commercial properties for sustainable income

  • Affordable housing
  • Property development
  • Rental income
  • Commercial spaces

Food Processing

Establishing food processing facilities to add value to agricultural produce and create branded food products

  • Food manufacturing
  • Quality packaging
  • Brand development
  • Market distribution

Transportation Services

Creating cooperative-owned transportation services to address mobility needs and generate stable income

  • Passenger transport
  • Logistics services
  • Vehicle ownership
  • Route optimization

Manufacturing

Establishing small-scale manufacturing units for consumer goods, creating jobs and promoting local production

  • Consumer goods
  • Local production
  • Job creation
  • Import substitution

Political Empowerment

Developing leadership programs to prepare women for political participation and community leadership roles

  • Leadership training
  • Political education
  • Advocacy skills
  • Community representation

Education & Training

Establishing vocational training centers and educational institutions to build skills and knowledge capacity

  • Vocational training
  • Skill development
  • Adult education
  • Entrepreneurship programs

Join Our Community

Upcoming Events

Connect, learn, and grow with our community of empowered women.

Event Calendar

Stay informed about our upcoming activities and meetings

March 2024
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat

Stay Updated

We'll send you updates about our events

Quarterly General Meeting
15 MAR
General Meeting

Quarterly General Assembly

Join us for our quarterly general meeting where we review our progress, discuss upcoming initiatives, and make important decisions about our cooperative's future direction.

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Cooperative Hall, Owerri
Financial Literacy Workshop
22 MAR
Workshop

Advanced Financial Literacy

Learn advanced money management skills, investment strategies, and wealth preservation techniques in this intensive workshop.

9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Training Center
Celebration

Phase 1 Completion Celebration

Celebrating the successful completion of Phase 1 of our empowerment program and launching Phase 2 with 200 new members.

March 30, 2024 Event Center, Owerri
300+ Current Members
200 New Phase Target

Featured Success Story

From Member to Community Leader

Meet Chinyere, who transformed her life through cooperative savings and now leads financial literacy programs in her community, empowering other women to achieve economic independence.

5x Savings Growth
50+ Women Mentored
3 Business Ventures
Watch Her Story
Chinyere's Success Story
"The cooperative gave me more than money—it gave me confidence, knowledge, and a sisterhood that supports my growth."
- Chinyere Okoro, Community Leader & Entrepreneur

More Inspiring Journeys

Discover how women across Imo State are transforming their lives through our cooperative

Need Help?

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our cooperative, membership, and programs.

To join our cooperative, you need to:

  • Be a woman resident in Imo State, Nigeria
  • Attend an orientation session
  • Complete the membership application form
  • Pay the required membership fee
  • Commit to regular savings contributions
  • Agree to abide by our cooperative bylaws

Our membership drive happens quarterly. Contact our membership committee for the next intake date.

Our members enjoy numerous benefits including:

  • Financial Security: Regular savings with dividend earnings
  • Access to Loans: Low-interest loans for business and personal needs
  • Financial Education: Free workshops on money management
  • Networking: Connect with other ambitious women
  • Leadership Opportunities: Chance to serve in cooperative leadership
  • Community Support: Emergency assistance and peer mentoring

Our dividend system is transparent and member-focused:

  • Dividends are distributed annually from our cooperative profits
  • Distribution is proportional to each member's savings and participation
  • 70% of profits go directly to members as dividends
  • 15% is reinvested in community development programs
  • 10% covers operational expenses
  • 5% goes to our emergency relief fund

All financial statements are available for member review during our quarterly meetings.

We offer several loan products tailored to our members' needs:

  • Business Development Loans: For starting or expanding small businesses (6-12 month terms)
  • Emergency Loans: Quick access funds for urgent needs (3-month terms)
  • Educational Loans: For members' children school fees (9-month terms)
  • Asset Acquisition Loans: For purchasing equipment or property (12-24 month terms)
  • Micro-Enterprise Loans: Small loans for petty trading (1-3 month terms)

Interest rates are significantly lower than commercial banks, ranging from 5-10% annually.

Our strategic 5-phase program aims to systematically empower 1000 women:

  • Phase 1: 200 women (Completed - 300 women achieved)
  • Phase 2: 200 additional women (Current focus)
  • Phase 3: 200 more women (2025 target)
  • Phase 4: 200 additional members (2026 target)
  • Phase 5: Final 200 women (2027 target)

Each phase includes intensive financial literacy training, business development support, and leadership mentoring. Our ultimate goal is to reach 1000 empowered women by 2028.

Our microfinance bank initiative is progressing through these stages:

  • Stage 1: Capital accumulation through member savings and investments
  • Stage 2: Regulatory compliance and licensing applications
  • Stage 3: Infrastructure development and staff training
  • Stage 4: Pilot operations and service testing
  • Stage 5: Full-scale banking operations

We're currently in Stage 2, working with financial regulators to meet all requirements. The bank will specialize in women-focused financial products and services.

Still Have Questions?

Our support team is here to help you with any additional questions or concerns about membership and our programs.

Email Support

info@gwmcs.org

Response within 24 hours

WhatsApp

+234 803 123 4567

Quick responses

Phone Support

+234 703 987 6543

Mon-Fri, 9AM-5PM

Visit Us

123 Cooperative Avenue

Owerri, Imo State
Contact Us Directly

Connect With Us

Get In Touch

Ready to join our movement or learn more about our programs? We'd love to hear from you.

Let's Start a Conversation

Whether you're interested in membership, partnerships, or just learning more about our work, we're here to help you join our growing community of empowered women.

Visit Our Office

123 Cooperative Avenue
Owerri Central District
Imo State, Nigeria

Call Us Directly

+234 703 987 6543 +234 803 123 4567

Mon-Fri, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM WAT

Email Us

We respond within 24 hours

WhatsApp Business

+234 803 123 4567

Quick responses during business hours

Office Hours

Monday - Friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Sunday Closed

Send Us a Message

Fill out the form below and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

We respect your privacy and protect your information according to Nigerian data protection regulations.

Prefer to Visit in Person?

Come see us at our headquarters in Owerri. We'd love to give you a tour and introduce you to our community.

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