On May 25th, 2024,The Brilliant Feminine, a trailblazing organization dedicated to empowering girls and ending Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Maralal, Samburu County, Kenya, hosted a landmark event – the FGM Community Awareness Workshop. Held at the Pastoral Center in Maralal, the workshop brought together a diverse group of participants, united in their commitment to eradicating this harmful practice.
A Day of Dialogue and Action:
This wasn’t just a one-day event; it was a catalyst for crucial conversations and action planning. The workshop aimed to:
- Raise awareness about the devastating consequences of FGM on the physical and psychological health of girls and women.
- Educate participants on the legal frameworks in Kenya that protect girls from FGM.
- Explore alternative cultural practices that celebrate girlhood and promote their well-being.
- Empower participants to become advocates for change within their communities.

A Diverse Spectrum of Voices:
The workshop’s strength lay in the rich tapestry of voices and perspectives represented.
- Hon. Asha Mohammed, Member of County Assembly (MCA), Maralal: Setting the tone for the day, Hon. Mohammed delivered a powerful keynote address. She emphasized the county government’s commitment to ending FGM and highlighted existing legal frameworks that participants could utilize to advocate for change.
- Shazney Ramzan, Chairperson of The Brilliant Feminine: Ms. Ramzan provided a compelling overview of Al-Banaat’s work and the organization’s unwavering dedication to empowering girls and creating a future free from FGM.

- Salma Ali, Martial Arts Instructor and National Organizing Committee Member, Kenya Tong-IL Moo-Do Federation: Ms. Ali’s presentation offered a unique perspective, showcasing the power of self-defense training as a tool for building confidence and resilience in girls. Live demonstrations showcased practical applications of self-defense skills, empowering participants to visualize safety measures for girls.
- Eric Lesire, Project Coordinator, Sempeero CBO: Mr. Lesire, representing a local community-based organization, shared valuable insights on community engagement strategies and the importance of collaborating with local leaders to achieve lasting change. His words resonated with participants, emphasizing the crucial role of community ownership in ending FGM.
- Mercy Nyajau, : Ms. Nyajau provided a comprehensive overview of Kenya’s legal framework regarding FGM. She explained relevant laws, outlining the legal recourse available to girls and women at risk, and empowering participants with knowledge to advocate for their rights.

Interactive Sessions and Meaningful Connections:
The workshop wasn’t just about lectures; it fostered active participation through:
- Panel discussions: Engaging discussions, moderated by The Brilliant Feminine representatives, allowed participants to ask questions, share their experiences, and engage in open dialogue with the keynote speakers. Topics ranged from legal procedures and accessing support services to navigating cultural pressures and promoting alternative practices.
- Breakout group sessions: Participants were divided into smaller groups for focused discussions on specific themes. These sessions provided a safe space for sharing personal stories, brainstorming solutions, and developing strategies for promoting change within their communities.
- Networking opportunities: The workshop facilitated connections between participants from diverse backgrounds. This fostered a sense of community and collaboration, encouraging participants to support each other’s ongoing efforts to end FGM.
A Call to Action:
The workshop concluded with a powerful call to action. Participants were encouraged to become active agents of change in their communities. The Brilliant Feminine provided resources and guidance on how to:
- Disseminate the knowledge gained through the workshop to families, friends, and community members.
- Identify and support girls at risk of FGM.
- Report instances of FGM to relevant authorities.
- Advocate for alternative cultural practices that celebrate girlhood and prioritize their well-being.
A Beacon of Hope:
The FGM Community Awareness Workshop, made possible by the generous support of The Maiden Factor Foundation, was a resounding success. The day was filled with informative presentations, inspiring discussions, and a shared commitment to building a future free from FGM. By uniting diverse voices, fostering open dialogue, and equipping participants with knowledge and resources, The Brilliant Feminine has ignited a crucial movement in Maralal.

Looking Ahead:
The fight against FGM is an ongoing journey. The Brilliant Feminine is committed to continuing its work through:
- Organizing similar workshops in different communities within Maralal to reach a wider audience.
- Providing ongoing support to participants by offering training sessions, mentorship programs, and access to legal aid.
- Collaborating with local authorities, NGOs, and community leaders to develop and implement