Julienne Lusenge

Julienne Lusenge, born on May twenty-eight, nineteen fifty-eight, is a prominent human rights activist from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. She has dedicated her life to advocating for survivors of wartime sexual violence, making significant strides in the realm of women's rights.

As the co-founder and President of Female Solidarity for Integrated Peace and Development (SOFEPADI), Lusenge has been instrumental in fostering a supportive environment for women affected by conflict. Additionally, she serves as the director of the Congolese Women's Fund (FFC), further amplifying her commitment to empowering women in her community.

Her tireless efforts have not gone unnoticed; Lusenge is the recipient of several prestigious awards, including the 2018 Women’s International Rights Award from the Geneva Summit for Human Rights and Democracy and the 2016 Ginetta Sagan Award from Amnesty International. She has also been honored with the Human Rights Award from the Embassy of France and was named a Knight of the Legion of Honour by the French Government.

In recognition of her unwavering courage and dedication, Lusenge was awarded the International Women of Courage Award in twenty twenty-one, solidifying her status as a leading figure in the fight for women's rights and human dignity.