On April 15th, The Brilliant Feminine, a renowned organization dedicated to empowering girls in Maralal, Samburu County, Kenya, hosted a powerful event at Mwangaza Muslim Secondary School. The event aimed to engage young women in a critical dialogue about Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), while showcasing a unique approach to combating these issues – martial arts.
Raising Awareness and Fostering Understanding
The event featured prominent speakers, including Halima Abdikadir, a co-founder and Secretary of Al-Banaat, Shazney Suleiman, the organization’s co-founder and Chairperson, and Mercy Nyanjau, a legal expert. These influential women shared their knowledge and experiences, shedding light on the devastating consequences of GBV and FGM. Through open discussions, students gained a deeper understanding of their rights and the harmful effects of these practices.

Empowerment Through Martial Arts
One of the event’s most captivating aspects was the integration of martial arts as a tool for empowerment. The Brilliant Feminine recognizes that self-defense skills not only equip girls with the ability to protect themselves physically but also foster confidence and resilience. Demonstrations showcased the practical applications of martial arts, while emphasizing the importance of self-belief and inner strength.
A Call to Action
The event at Mwangaza Muslim Secondary School wasn’t just about raising awareness; it was a call to action.The Brilliant Feminine encouraged the students to become active participants in creating a safer and more just environment for themselves and their communities. The organization provided information on how to access support services and advocate for change within their social circles.

Building a Brighter Future
By engaging young women in open dialogue, equipping them with knowledge, and promoting self-defense skills, The Brilliant Feminine is paving the way for a brighter future in Maralal. Empowered young women are the key to dismantling harmful practices and creating a society where girls can live free from violence and fear.