This is the true story of Aissata, who was was cut when she was seven years old. Like many girls and women all over the world, she experienced the often devastating consequences of female genital cutting (FGC). Years after undergoing the practice, Aissata’s community took part in the Tostan Community Empowerment Program, and sparked a transformational change in their lives. Through learning about human rights and responsibilities, her village made the historic decision to end FGC together.
“Aissata’s story shows the power of a human rights-based, non formal education program,” says Molly Melching, Founder and Creative Director of Tostan. “People can make the best choices for their well-being when they have learned and discussed information about health and human rights in their own national language. Tostan is proud to support Aissata and thousands of other brave and visionary community leaders as they make historic decisions to abandon harmful social norms and promote health and well-being for a brighter future.”
With thanks to Aissata for sharing her story, to the Orchid Project for supporting social mobilization activities in Senegal, to Positive Negatives for creating the animation and to Brooks Foundation for making it possible.
