Hawa Cooper embodies the true spirit of leadership—one forged through personal hardship, courage, and a commitment to uplift others. As chairlady of an Effect Hope peer support group for individuals affected by Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) in Liberia, she leads with empathy and resilience, transforming stigma into solidarity and isolation into community. Her journey from rejection to empowerment fuels her passion to guide others through their darkest moments, making her a powerful catalyst for change in her community.
When Hawa Cooper first developed symptoms of Lymphatic Filariasis—a debilitating disease that causes swelling and severe pain—her world crumbled. Her own family and community, gripped by fear and stigma, turned their backs on her. Isolated and rejected, Hawa faced not only the physical pain of her illness but the crushing weight of loneliness.
In Liberia, during the rainy season, people suffering from this disease face greater challenges. Dirty floodwaters worsen infections, and for Hawa, her swollen foot became a source of constant agony. Without access to proper medical care, she was directed to a traditional healer who treated her foot with burning hot water and leaves. This painful treatment, which lasted for three weeks, only worsened her condition, causing blisters and open wounds.
Yet, Hawa refused to surrender. Choosing hope over hopelessness, she sought help from the local hospital, where antibiotics began healing her sores. As the sores began to close, new tissue started to regenerate in the wounds. It was a turning point—not just in her health, but for her future.
Through the support of Effect Hope’s TRANSFORM program, Hawa found more than medicine; she found community. Joining a peer support group formed for people affected by Neglected Tropical Diseases like Lymphatic Filariasis and Leprosy, Hawa discovered the strength that comes from shared experience.
Today, Hawa Cooper stands as the chairlady of that support group—leading with empathy and unwavering strength. She is a beacon of hope for others who face rejection and hardship, proving that leadership is not just about power but about lifting others up through shared struggle.
“I don’t feel alone anymore,” she says. “I know I’m not the only one facing this. I look up to the almighty God, and I believe I can help others in my area.”
Her impact ripples far beyond her own recovery. Hawa leads a growing movement of empowered individuals who refuse to be defined by disease or stigma. She shows her community that true strength lies in resilience, in seeking help, and in the courage to lead others through the darkest moments.
Hawa Cooper’s story reminds us all that leadership begins with overcoming adversity—and that one voice, one heart, can inspire a whole community to rise.
