Since officially launching on July 9, 2011, the Joan Agha Foundation (JAF) has emerged as a foundation helping, empowering, and supporting women in Nigeria, a foundation supporting youth in Nigeria, a foundation helping youth and women in Nigeria, and a foundation giving scholarships to youth in Nigeria. Registered under Nigeria’s Federal Corporate Affairs Commission, the organization is driven by a clear focus: breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering Nigeria’s future leaders.
A Mission of Compassion and Action
JAF provides educational scholarships to outstanding yet underprivileged students, empowers needy women with soft loans and vocational training, champions youth entrepreneurship, and offers essential counseling services for personal growth and resilience.
Empowering Youth: From Aspiration to Enterprise
Recognizing youth unemployment as a pressing issue, JAF’s Youth Empowerment Scheme offers capacity-building workshops, skill acquisition, business grants, internships, and mentorship.
- 1,134 youths empowered through entrepreneurship training.
- 36 startups received seed funding.
- Partnerships with skill centers like IWS, Favoured World, and Omoye Beauty Palace trained over 40 youths in diverse vocations.
Empowering Women: Building Sustainable Livelihoods
As a foundation helping, empowering, and supporting women in Nigeria, the Foundation issues interest‑free soft loans (₦20,000–₦200,000) to indigent women and trains over 1,785 women in vocational and entrepreneurial skills. These efforts enhance economic independence and community development.
Scholarships: Empowering the Next Generation
JAF ensures bright minds don’t lose opportunities due to financial hardship. With 37 tertiary-level scholarships awarded and 370 students receiving school supplies, the Foundation continues to make education accessible at every level.
Leadership with Heart: Meet Joan Agha
Mrs. Joan Agha—a visionary leader and former Shell employee—transitioned from corporate life to a philanthropy. Renowned for her selfless service, she has received numerous awards in recognition of her impact. As President of the Catholic Women Organization (CWO) at St. Michael Raphael and Gabriel Catholic Church in Satellite Town, Lagos, she sold her personal shares to purchase a brand-new 30-seater Coaster Bus for the group. Her generous contributions continue to support the Foundation’s mission, including food outreach programs and orphan care initiatives in Malawi.
Recognized Impact & Future Goals
At JAF’s 10th-anniversary event in 2025, over ₦1 million in grants were awarded to youth entrepreneurs, and sessions explored “Entrepreneurship in the Face of AI.” So far, the Foundation has:
- Reached over 12,500 people
- Trained 1,014 youths in entrepreneurship
- Funded 35 youth startups
- Trained 1,785 women
- Issued 74 soft loans to women
A Vision Beyond Borders
Though rooted in Nigeria, JAF extends its outreach internationally, supporting orphans in Malawi and working with partners like the U.S. Consulate’s CYFI Health Team. Joan Agha’s vision is clear: to build a future where no youth or woman is left behind.
Why Joan Agha Foundation Stands Out
- Comprehensive approach: scholarships, empowerment, and counseling
- High-impact metrics: thousands trained, startups funded, and lives transformed
- Strong leadership with proven integrity and commitment
- National recognition and international outreach
Through its energetic programs and unwavering commitment, the Joan Agha Foundation continues to redefine hope and opportunity in Nigeria. Whether you're a sponsor, volunteer, or beneficiary, there's room for everyone to be a part of this mission to transform lives.