Community change doesn’t happen in a vacuum; it happens in circles—circles of dialogue, circles of learning, and circles of support.

Recently, The Brilliant Feminine hosted a landmark Community Awareness Workshop focused on the eradication of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). This wasn’t just a seminar; it was a gathering of hearts and minds committed to protecting the dignity and health of our girls.

Advocacy Through Action

The workshop was designed to be as interactive as it was informative. We moved away from the “lecture” style and leaned into community advocacy.

  • Keynote Speeches: Powerful voices from the community shared the medical and psychological realities of FGM, debunking myths that have persisted for generations.
  • Practical Demonstrations: We showcased how communities can transition to “Alternative Rites of Passage” that celebrate a girl’s growth without physical harm.
  • Interactive Sessions: Through games and open-floor discussions, we encouraged community members to voice their concerns, making them active participants in the solution rather than passive listeners.

Celebrating Participation

At The Brilliant Feminine, we believe in honoring those who show up for the difficult conversations. To celebrate the spirit of the day and support the livelihoods of our participants, the workshop concluded with a heartfelt distribution of essentials:

  • Lesos & Foodstuffs: Practical support for the households that form the backbone of our community.
  • Sanitary Pads: Continuing our commitment to menstrual hygiene and the dignity of young women.
  • Monetary Tokens: Awarded to those who led the way during our interactive games and activities, recognizing their energy and leadership.

The Power of the “Leso”

The distribution of lesos was particularly symbolic. In our culture, the leso represents a mother’s love, protection, and wisdom. By gifting these, we are asking the women of the community to wrap the next generation in protection—not through the “cut,” but through the warmth of knowledge and safety.

“A community that protects its daughters is a community that secures its future.”

Keep the Conversation Going

The fight against FGM is a marathon, not a sprint. Every workshop brings us one step closer to a world where every girl can grow up whole, healthy, and brilliant.