About us
Our Mission and Vision
01.
— Our Mission
To promote the rights and education of girls, raise the status of women, and foster equality and mutual understanding across all genders and Commonwealth nations.
02.
— Our History
Founded in 1925 as the British Commonwealth League by suffragette Alice Hemming and fellow activists, CCL has a rich legacy of advocating for women’s rights and education throughout the Commonwealth
03.
— Our Legacy
In 1967, during a visit to a girls’ orphanage in Sierra Leone, our founder Alice Hemming was
deeply moved by the need for better access to education for girls. This evolved into staging the Commonwealth Fair, a cherished annual tradition held every November to this day.
04.
— Education Initiatives
Through the Commonwealth Girls Education Fund (CGEF), we provide scholarships to academically gifted girls in need, enabling them to complete their secondary education.
05.
— Community Engagement
We collaborate with women’s organisations across the Commonwealth to promote gender equality and support community development projects.
06.
— Annual Events
Our flagship event, the Commonwealth Fair, celebrates the diversity and unity of Commonwealth nations through cultural exhibitions, performances, and fundraising activities
Our Values
A century of change, empowering generations, educating girls, uniting nations, protecting our planet
Education for Empowerment:
We believe that educating girls transforms lives, uplifts communities, and shapes a more equitable world.
Gender Equality
We champion equal rights, opportunities, and representation for women and girls across the Commonwealth.
Unity in Diversity:
We celebrate cultural richness, embrace inclusivity, and foster solidarity among all 56 Commonwealth nations.
Peacebuilding:
We support dialogue, cooperation, and youth-led peace initiatives to create a more just and harmonious world.
Environmental Stewardship:
We promote sustainability, tree planting, and climate awareness as vital responsibilities for a shared future.
Legacy & Innovation:
Rooted in a century of service, we honour our founders while embracing innovation for the next generation.
Collaboration & Community:
We partner with educational institutions, NGOs, diplomatic bodies, and grassroots leaders to amplify impact.
Integrity & Service:
We lead with honesty, transparency, and a deep commitment to service, especially for those most in need.
Our Legacy - CCL Centenary (1925-2025)
Celebrating 100 Years
Join us as we mark a century of progress and impact in 2025. A year-long calendar of
events will celebrate our achievements and set a new agenda for the future—focused
on environment, education, and peace whilst working with partners such as the International Children’s Peace Assembly (ICPA) to high-profile galas and cultural fairs. We invite you to join us and be a part of history.
