Johanna Friman: Co-Founder, Pamoja Girls

Central to Johanna’s impact is Pamoja Girls, the non-profit she co-founded in February 2020 with the goal of helping girls around the world believe in themselves and one another. The organization brings together girls from diverse backgrounds—across more than thirty countries and five continents—through a unique series of interactive “Pamoja Girls Books.” These materials spark vital conversations on topics such as self-worth, body image, family, and personal dreams, all tailored with cultural sensitivity through extensive feedback and contributions from a volunteer network of over 150 young women and local ambassadors.

Pamoja Girls’ influence extends far beyond books: its workshops, leadership communities, and partnerships with nonprofits, schools, and sports clubs foster a supportive network where girls can share, reflect, and build confidence. As a connector and advocate, Johanna ensures that the dialogues inspired by Pamoja Girls promote inclusion, resilience, and positive change, regardless of language, geography, or circumstance.

Johanna also brings extensive experience from roles with NGOs in South Africa, the Swedish Embassy in Uganda, and the United Nations in New York. At the heart of her work is the conviction that strengthening girls’ voices makes communities—and the world—stronger. Johanna’s leadership continues to inspire the next generation to embrace their potential, support each other, and create a more just and connected global society.

We are proud to have Johanna as part of our intern community.