Initiative Sankofa d’Afrique de l’Ouest (ISDAO) is an activist-led fund dedicated to strengthening and supporting a West African movement for gender diversity and sexual rights by adopting a flexible approach to grant-making and building a culture of philanthropy committed to equality and social justice.

ISDAO’s approach is shaped by these four pillars:

• To increase and diversify resources available to support and advance the rights and safety of LGBTQ people in West African region as well as to build a culture of philanthropy committed to human rights and social justice in West Africa.
• To respond to the realities of our region, where LGBTQ movements and the context within which they operate are still emerging and constantly changing. We seek to develop and strengthen the dynamism and diversity of LGBTQ communities, as well as the leadership and organizing of lesbian, bisexual, and queer women, and of gender non-binary and transgender people, communities, groups, organizations, and movements.
• By adopting a flexible approach to grant-making, to support innovation and recognize diverse sites, forms, and expressions of activism in the West African region. We are committed to the growth of organic movements, which requires adaptability and a long-term commitment.
• To advocate for change by convening interested parties for dialogues and build knowledge by promoting and strengthening a culture of documenting the work of and lived realities of LGBTQ organizing and communities.