Imagine living in a community where everyone shames you for a decision your family has made to protect your body. This is what Lucy Weisiko endured as a child. Her parents made the brave decision not to allow any of their daughters to undergo female genital mutilation (FGM) — a common practice in the community she was raised in.
People hurled insults at her and told her she was not a “complete woman.” The emotional toll from the constant public shaming became so great Lucy’s parents had to move her away from the village and into the city.
She opens up about what that experience was like and how she learned to love and appreciate her body. Her pain ignited a desire to use her voice to make a difference for young girls who faced similar fate. Her organization, Save Girl Child Empowerment educates girls on the dangers of FGM and why they should stand up for their rights and know their worth.
Read Lucy’s brave story here:
Vimbai E. is a content marketer, ghostwriter, and the founder of The Weight She Carries. With hundreds of articles and stories publishing online, in print and for broadcast, her love of language and storytelling shines through every piece of writing that bears her name.