Organization for Health Education and Prevention against Sexual Abuse (OHEPASA) is a non-governmental organization founded in October 2023, dedicated to fighting against sexual abuse and gender-based violence. Due to the high prevalence of sexual violence and gender-based violence, the founder, Umoh Mary Charles, seeks to re-address the situation through the OHEPASA approach. Our core belief is that early education and awareness are powerful tools in safeguarding lives and shaping a healthier future—hence our guiding slogan: “Catch Them Young. “We focus on educating children, adolescents, and communities about the preventive mechanisms of gender-based violence, sexual harassment, rape, promoting gender equality, boundaries, and respect. Through interactive workshops, school outreaches, awareness campaigns, and community-based programs, we aim to equip young people with the knowledge and confidence to protect themselves and others from abuse. Sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), has serious health implications that can affect survivors physically, psychologically, and socially. These effects can be short-term or last a lifetime. The major health consequences of SGBV include Physical health impacts, psychological and emotional impacts, reproductive and maternal health consequences, social and behavioral impacts, and impact on children and adolescents. Our organization takes victim-centered action, striving to eradicate sexual exploitation, violation, abuse, and sexual harassment from and through our organization, and where every child and youth is empowered to grow up free from the threat of gender-based violence and sexual violence. Together, we can build a future where awareness leads to prevention and every voice is heard.
“OHEPASA’s visit changed how we think about respect and safety. I now know my voice matters, and I feel confident to speak up and help others do the same.”