Juliana Irene Buah is a dynamic social entrepreneur, philanthropist, and the visionary Founder and Executive Director of the West Africa Women Empowerment Foundation (WAWEF). With an unwavering commitment to empowering women and transforming communities, Juliana has dedicated her life to creating sustainable pathways for girls and young women to thrive through education, vocational training, and entrepreneurship.

Born and raised in Ghana, Juliana graduated from the University of Ghana before relocating to the United States in 1998 to pursue her dreams. She began her professional journey in Boston, Massachusetts, where she entered the accounting industry. After seven years, driven by a passion for business and a desire to create impact on her own terms, she moved to Atlanta, Georgia to pursue her entrepreneurial aspirations.

In 2012, Juliana launched Care Med Transportation, a successful medical transportation company in Atlanta. Rooted in her deep care for others and commitment to service, the company quickly became a vital resource—helping countless individuals access the medical care they needed. Her compassion and business acumen turned the venture into a thriving enterprise.

Building on this momentum, she expanded into the food industry in 2017 with the establishment of Pick N Save Supermarket in South Carolina. This endeavor further reinforced her reputation as a resilient and innovative entrepreneur.

In 2019, during a visit to Ghana, Juliana was inspired by the country’s development and growing potential in real estate. She founded Chic Homes by Jureen, a real estate company offering quality and affordable housing. Her growing involvement in Ghana reignited her desire to give back to the communities that shaped her.

During her frequent visits to Ghana, Juliana spent time in under-resourced rural communities, where she witnessed the harsh realities faced by many girls and young women. The lack of access to education, economic opportunity, and mentorship—especially among the marginalized—deeply moved her. Recognizing that gender inequality and poverty were deeply intertwined, she felt called to act.

This calling led to the founding of WAWEF, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women and girls across West Africa. WAWEF’s mission is to break the cycle of poverty and unlock the potential of young women through targeted, practical, and transformative programs.