More Than A Survivor: An interview with Sakina

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?

I live in Texas.

Where’s the favorite place you have traveled to, lived in, or would like to visit?

My favorite place I have traveled to is Portugal. 

What are some of your passions?

I like listening to podcasts and walking.

What does an average day look like for you?

My average day is very average. I get up, have coffee with my husband, take care of the dogs, work, have dinner, chat with family and friends on the phone, watch some TV with my husband, and then go back to bed.

What are some things you do for self-care?

Get up late and watch mindless TV

What are five words to describe you?

Loyal, pragmatic, hardworking, thinker, and introverted

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What are your hobbies?

Walking. Netflix.

What is your profession or what career would you like to be in?

I am a lawyer.

What did you want to be when you grew up? 

I grew up in a traditional Bohra family, where dreams were limited to having a good marriage and a family.

What is your favorite food?

Pani puri and pizza

What is your proudest achievement?

I am a work in progress.

What is a hidden talent that you possess?

I have not discovered it yet.