A New Chapter for SOMA in São Tomé

After a period of reflection and necessary pause, SOMA is entering a renewed chapter in São Tomé: one built on stronger foundations, deeper community engagement and a long-term vision for sustainable impact.

In the past months, the organization faced significant challenges: without stable financial resources and consistent on-the-ground presence, continuing activities would have meant compromising the very principles that guide SOMA. Rather than moving forward in a way that risked irregularity or dependence, SOMA chose to pause, reassess and rebuild. This decision, though difficult, was rooted in a commitment to integrity because meaningful change happens only when there is continuity, trust and responsibility toward the girls and the wider community.

From this moment of restructuring emerged a bold new direction. SOMA is now laying the groundwork for a social business that will, in the future, help sustain the program financially and create local employment opportunities for young women and men. This shift is not just about securing resources; it’s about strengthening local economies and reinforcing agency within the community itself.

At the same time, SOMA is transitioning to a community-led operational model. Instead of relying on volunteer availability, daily activities will be guided and managed by local leaders, with SOMA offering remote support, training and guidance. This approach prioritizes autonomy, resilience and long-term ownership, ensuring that the work does not depend solely on external presence and that the community remains at the heart of every decision.

Another essential pillar of this evolution is inclusivity. While SOMA was born with a mission focused on girls, the new model opens space for boys to participate in educational, sporting and community activities. This intentional shift aims to nurture healthier gender dynamics and deepen social cohesion, without losing sight of the central purpose: empowering girls. By creating mixed spaces of learning, collaboration and growth, SOMA hopes to foster mutual respect, shared responsibility and a more equitable future for all young people in São Tomé.

This new chapter is about more than resuming activities. It’s about redefining how we work, who we work with and how we build change that lasts. It is a commitment to being present in a way that is responsible, sustainable and aligned with the vision that brought SOMA to life in the first place.

The path ahead is one of collective effort, community leadership and renewed purpose. And as this transformation unfolds, we are excited to continue sharing each step of the journey.