Who We are
Who We are
“We are young Angolans working directly with local communities across the country. Our goal is simple but powerful: uplift communities, strengthen civil society, and amplify the voices of those who go unheard. We don’t just observe—we actively work alongside our communities to create lasting positive change.”
Our Story
Founded in 2014 by Angolans in Washington DC, Friends of Angola (FOA) emerged from a shared vision to empower civil society and build a more democratic, prosperous Angola. Our journey began with Radio Angola, a pioneering platform that gave Angolan youth a voice to freely discuss pressing issues—from unemployment and education to human rights and democracy.
As our impact grew, we launched initiatives focusing on nonviolent civic engagement, community journalism, and good governance. Working directly within Angola, we’ve built strong partnerships with local leaders, community organizations, and civil society groups, creating a network of changemakers committed to democratic values.
Today we continue to expand our reach through training programs, resource development, and international advocacy. Our work remains rooted in our founding belief: empowering youth and strengthening civil society are key to building a better Angola
Theory of Change
FOA believes in grassroots-driven transformation. We understand that lasting democratic change in Angola must be led by Angolans themselves, particularly young people and civil society organizations. Our role is catalytic and supportive.
- Focus on grassroots-driven transformation
- Empower local changemakers through resources and tools
- Build sustainable democracy through collaborative approach
- Goal: Enable citizens to advocate rights and participate in democratic processes
