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I AM NALAAuthor: Aya Chebbi
Welcome to - I AM NALA Podcast - your leading source to the roaring voices of Africas lioness telling the stories of some of the baddest, bravest and boldest women leaders, survivors and disruptors. Nala in kiswahili means lioness or queen, and here we celebrate power, strength and unapologetic greatness. Language: en Genres: Education, Government, Self-Improvement Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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37 | The Body Remembers: FGM, Trauma & Truth-Telling | Dr. Leyla Hussein
Episode 39
Wednesday, 14 May, 2025
Key Topics CoveredGrowing up across Somalia, Italy, and Saudi Arabia—and experiencing FGM at age 7The emotional and physical trauma of FGM, including its long-term impact during childbirthWhy FGM must be recognized and prosecuted as child abuse, not cultural practiceThe role of language in policy, aid, and advocacy—reframing FGM, child marriage, and labiaplastyHow patriarchy drives all forms of genital control—across race, class, and regionCreating survivor-led initiatives and safe spaces for healingReimagining feminist solidarity and cross-cultural resistanceThe power of parenting, art, and love in breaking cycles of harm Standout Quotes“What happened to us wasn’t culture. It was child abuse—and the body remembers.”“We don’t practice violence. So let’s stop calling it a practice.”“Patriarchy is the root of it all. If we want to end violence, we must start there.”“Women’s bodies have always made money. That’s why they’ve always been controlled.”“I am Nala because I choose to be present—with love.” Resources & MentionsPower of Language Position Paper – by The Girl GenerationThe Crocodile Documentary – Leyla’s landmark film on FGM in the UKThe Girl Generation – Support to the Africa-led Movement to End FGMWorld Bank and University of Birmingham data on FGM mortalityFGM Mortality Study – University of Birmingham, 2023CSW events on FGM and survivor-led care________________________________________Want to support the Nalafem? Website nalafem.org Instagram @IamNala_podcast Tiktok I AM NALA PodcastFacebook Nala Feminist CollectiveX (Twitter) @NalafemYouTube Nala feminist CollectiveLinkedin Nala Feminist CollectiveLearn more about the Africa Young Women Beijing+25 Manifesto and how you can help the young women of Africa create a better life for future generations. nalafem.org/manifestoFor collaboration and sponsorships contact: aya@nalafem.org ____________________________________________Creator & Host: Aya ChebbiProducer: Omom Mbu-OgarGraphic Designer.: Kenechukwu NwachukwuMusic License Agreement signed for the Use of ‘Fire’ by Mpho featuring MiDi KwaKwa
