Womens Dignity School

A Cause with Purpose:

Founded by Dembélé Mariam Sidibé in Kayes, Mali, Women’s Dignity School was established in 1998 as the Muso Danbé Center, which means "women’s dignity" in Bambara. A lifelong advocate for women’s empowerment, Mariam founded the school to provide trade skills and life skills training to women, especially those who are orphaned or live with disabilities.

Under her leadership, the school became a recognized pillar of opportunity and hope in the region, teaching sewing, cooking, soap-making, cloth dyeing, literacy, and more. Mariam’s work is rooted in the belief that every woman deserves the chance to become self-reliant and respected in their community. Her vision continues to guide the school’s mission today, reaching women of all backgrounds and building a legacy of dignity, education, and resilience.

Mission:

To equip and empower women and girls who have endured life challenges by providing holistic education grounded in dignity and self-determination. We are committed to creating pathways to self-sufficiency and leadership for women and young girls, providing hands-on learning, fostering creativity, and celebrating cultural traditions, while building essential skills for economic independence and personal growth.

Local Impact:

In 2025, WDS expanded to Washington State to address the unique challenges faced by immigrant, refugee, and BIPOC women in rural communities. The U.S. branch is led by her son, Ibrahim Dembele, and focuses on culturally responsive leadership development, civic engagement, and economic empowerment. WDS fosters dignity, self-sufficiency, and community connection. Our mission is to equip women with the tools and confidence to lead in their homes, communities, and beyond.

Upcoming Projects:

Lead With Dignity is a 6-month community-building workshop series serving 30–50 BIPOC, immigrant, and refugee women in Thurston and Lewis counties. Each month, we will host a two-hour, in-person session that brings together participants from diverse age, faith, and cultural backgrounds to discuss shared civic issues, such as community safety, belonging, and access to local service. Sessions will utilize storytelling and guided dialogue to foster empathy, reduce isolation, and promote civic awareness. In the final month, participants will co-host a public storytelling event, inviting local residents, service providers, and faith leaders. This project will cultivate meaningful new relationships and help participants see themselves, and be seen, as valued civic actors in their rural communities.

Your Support helps makes projects like these possible, furthering our mission and increasing local impact!

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