Alyson is an undergraduate student at Emmanuel College. Throughout high school, she gained a passion for learning about human rights. This passion continued into college and ultimately led her to pursuing a degree in International Studies with a concentration in Security and Diplomacy. She believes that in order to create a world where women are equal to men, we need to empower and provide safe environments for young women and girls to flourish.
What was your experience of learning about female genital cutting (FGC) for the first time like?
The first time I learned about FGC was as a sophomore in high school. In class, we read about the life of a young Nepali girl who was a survivor of FGC and child marriage. I did not learn much more about FGC until college. I have now learned the real impact FGC has on millions of young girls and women around the world. Once I started to learn more about the practice of FGC, I was shocked at how prevalent the issue is.
When and how did you first get involved with Sahiyo?
I first got involved with Sahiyo when looking for an internship. Throughout my search, I knew I wanted to work with an organization that makes a difference in the world. Sahiyo’s work is particularly important because it focuses on liberating young girls and women from FGC, which reinforces and upholds a patriarchy that is pervasive in many communities, particularly those that practice FGC.
What does your work with Sahiyo involve?
I work with Sahiyo as a Development Intern. The Development team works to research and apply for grants, as well as reach out to individual donors. This is an important component to the organization because it allows us to reach and support as many survivors of FGC as possible.
How has your involvement with Sahiyo impacted your life?
Working with Sahiyo, although for only a short time, has already had an impact on my view of FGC. I knew about the issue prior to starting my work with Sahiyo, however, working with the organization provides me an opportunity to see both what has been done to end the practice of FGC and areas in which more could be done to help those impacted by the practice.
What words of wisdom would you like to share with others who may be interested in supporting Sahiyo and the movement against FGC
Get involved in any way you can. Whether that be through volunteering, interning, donating, or participating in Sahiyo events. Involvement and awareness of the issue is how we can work to resolve it.