A Branch of African Youth Collective (AYC)
Sisters by Roots
United by Love. Rooted in Purpose. Empowered to Impact.
We rise together. We thrive together.
Sisters by Roots is AYC's dedicated branch for African-Australian women and mothers — a culturally grounded sisterhood and wellbeing initiative for women in Melbourne's West. A safe, empowering space to connect, grow, and celebrate identity.
About the Branch
Who We Are
Sisters by Roots was born from a simple truth: African women and mothers in Australia need spaces that are made for them — spaces where their culture is celebrated, their voices are heard, and their wellbeing is centred. We are not an add-on. We are a community.
From newly arrived young women navigating a new country, to mothers raising children between two cultures, to girls finding their identity — Sisters by Roots is a place of belonging. We gather, we share, we support, and we grow together.
As a branch of African Youth Collective, Sisters by Roots is grounded in the B-MAD prevention framework — building the protective factors of connection, cultural pride, and purpose that keep women and families well.
Our Programs
What We Do
Sisters by Roots runs programs, gatherings, and initiatives that support the whole lives of African women and mothers in Melbourne's West.
Cultural Connection
Regular gatherings that celebrate African heritage, traditions, and identity — creating pride and a strong sense of self.
Mentoring & Leadership
Connecting young women and girls with older sisters and community leaders who walk alongside them and open doors.
Wellbeing Support
A safe space to talk, be heard, and access support — addressing the unique mental health and wellbeing needs of African women.
Education & Empowerment
Workshops, conversations, and resources that equip women and girls with knowledge, skills, and confidence to thrive.
Family & Intergenerational Bonds
Strengthening the bonds between mothers, daughters, and grandmothers — honouring the wisdom that flows between generations.
Community Advocacy
Amplifying the voices of African women in Melbourne — advocating for their needs, rights, and representation in the broader community.
Program Proposal
Sisters by Roots Proposal
Support the woman, strengthen the family, nurture the village
A Proposal for a Culturally Grounded Sisterhood and Wellbeing Initiative for African-Australian Women and Mothers in Melbourne's West. Read the full proposal to learn about our vision, structure, and the impact we are building together.
Click the cover to read the full proposal, or download a copy to share with your community.
Join Us
Get Involved
Sisters by Roots is open to all African women and mothers in Melbourne's West. Whether you want to attend a gathering, volunteer, or partner with us — there is a place for you here.
Attend a Gathering
Join us at one of our regular Sisters by Roots events. No registration needed — just come as you are.
Get in TouchVolunteer or Mentor
Share your skills, time, and experience with younger sisters. Your story and presence make a difference.
Get in TouchPartner With Us
Organisations and services that want to support African women and mothers are welcome to reach out about partnership opportunities.
Contact AYCRooted in the B-MAD Framework
Sisters by Roots is a B-MAD program — grounded in AYC's prevention-first approach to mental health, alcohol, and drugs. By building sisterhood, cultural pride, and belonging, we create the protective factors that keep African women and families well.
Learn about B-MADJoin the Sisterhood
Sisters by Roots is for every African woman and mother in Melbourne's West. Come as you are — you belong here.
Get in Touch