Sahiyo understands that being a survivor of female genital cutting (FGC) is just one moment of your life and only one part of who you are as a person. Oftentimes, being labeled as a survivor can prevent people from seeing a person in any other context beyond survivorship.
Our campaign, #MoreThanASurvivor, explores our individuality and shows the world what makes us unique. After all, who we are is made up of all the moments in our lives, not just one.
Interview:
Where do you live?
Mumbai, India
Where’s the favorite place you have traveled to, lived in, or would like to visit?
Favorite place I have traveled is Himalayas and Kashmir, and one place that I would love to stay at is Mecca, Saudi Arabia
What are some of your passions?
I am passionate about psychology and combining it with spirituality. And just life in general.
What does an average day look like for you?
An average day is mostly just waking up, thinking about college work and what to eat and watch on Netflix.
What are some things you do for self-care?
Twice a week is my pampering session where I do my mani-pedi and other things to take care of my physical appearance. And for my inner self I practice mindfulness and strengthen my faith in Allah.
What are five words to describe you?
Compassionate, Lazy, Genuine, Driven and Anxious
What are your hobbies?
Writing in my journal and reading up new things until I get bored of it. Painting, too.
What is your profession or what career would you like to be in?
I am studying to become a psychologist.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
As a child I really wanted to become a rockstar, and after that it has always been a psychologist.
What is your favorite food?
Anything that is absolutely yummy!
What is your proudest achievement?
My proudest achievement is how with every passing day I am able to manage myself and difficult situations better. Sometimes I surprise myself at how well I cope with things that used to affect me a lot before.
What is a hidden talent that you possess?
I think my intuition is my hidden talent.