Deidra Mwalimu
CEO & Founder
Deidra Mwalimu is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Network of Women NOW, an international nonprofit implementing integrated programs in reproductive health education, personal hygiene, and community-based workforce development in underserved communities.
With over 15 years of experience in international development, Deidra specializes in designing and managing grant-funded programs that combine public health education with sustainable economic strategies. She leads the EmpowerED Hygiene Initiatives, a structured, curriculum-based program delivered through schools and community platforms to girls, boys, and women, using standardized materials and participatory learning methods to improve health knowledge and outcomes.
Her implementation model includes workforce development through training in sewing and. small-scale production, supporting the local manufacturing of reusable menstrual products and hygiene goods. This approach strengthens supply chains, expands access to essential resources, and promotes income generation
Deidra has implemented programs in the United States and internationally, including Brazil, Tanzania, India, Belize, Uganda, and Rwanda. Her work emphasizes locally led partnerships, measurable outcomes, and alignment with donor priorities, including monitoring, evaluation, and compliance across project lifecycles.
Bella Cyuzuzo
Administrative Assistant
Bella Cyuzuzo is an Administrative Assistant and Interpreter for Network of Women NOW, supporting program coordination and communication for the organization’s initiatives in Rwanda. As a native Rwandan, Bella brings valuable cultural and language insight that helps bridge connections between communities and the organization’s work in hygiene education and women’s health. She plays an important role in facilitating communication, assisting with outreach activities, and supporting program implementation.
Bella enjoys spending time with her family and friends and is passionate about contributing to projects that uplift and empower women and girls in her community.