Guest: Shamsa Arawil, Somali-British activist, academic, mother, and FGM survivor From a childhood marked by a life-altering ordeal to a bold, unflinching advocate demanding change, our guest shares a profound story of survival and activism. Born in Somalia and raised in the UK, Shamsa endured FGM at just six years old—a traumatic event that would shape her views on culture, justice, and women’s bodies. Years later, she has channeled her experiences into transformative work, challenging deep-seated norms, educating communities, and championing the power of reconstructive surgery. In this eye-opening conversation, she breaks down the misconceptions that keep harmful practices alive, calls out ineffective systems, and reminds us all that survivors can—and must—shape the future of their own narratives. This episode is a raw testament to the human spirit, resilience, and the fight for bodily autonomy.