I AM NALA

37 | The Body Remembers: FGM, Trauma & Truth-Telling | Dr. Leyla Hussein

Episode Summary

In this unforgettable episode of I AM NALA, host Aya Chebbi is joined by psychotherapist, anti-FGM activist, and feminist leader Dr. Leyla Hussein for a searing conversation about bodily autonomy, reframing cultural harm, and reclaiming truth. Drawing from her own survival and decades of advocacy, Leyla challenges the global narrative on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), arguing for its recognition as child abuse—not a cultural practice. She unpacks how trauma lives in the body, how language can either liberate or erase, and why global systems must stop excusing violence under the guise of “tradition.” This episode is a powerful confrontation with denial, a call to reframe harmful norms, and a love letter to all survivors learning to heal out loud.

Episode Notes

Key Topics Covered

• Growing up across Somalia, Italy, and Saudi Arabia—and experiencing FGM at age 7
• The emotional and physical trauma of FGM, including its long-term impact during childbirth
• Why FGM must be recognized and prosecuted as child abuse, not cultural practice
• The role of language in policy, aid, and advocacy—reframing FGM, child marriage, and labiaplasty
• How patriarchy drives all forms of genital control—across race, class, and region
• Creating survivor-led initiatives and safe spaces for healing
• Reimagining feminist solidarity and cross-cultural resistance
• The power of parenting, art, and love in breaking cycles of harm 

Standout Quotes

“What happened to us wasn’t culture. It was child abuse—and the body remembers.”

“We don’t practice violence. So let’s stop calling it a practice.”

“Patriarchy is the root of it all. If we want to end violence, we must start there.”

“Women’s bodies have always made money. That’s why they’ve always been controlled.”

“I am Nala because I choose to be present—with love.”

 Resources & Mentions

• Power of Language Position Paper – by The Girl Generation
• The Crocodile Documentary – Leyla’s landmark film on FGM in the UK
• The Girl Generation – Support to the Africa-led Movement to End FGM
• World Bank and University of Birmingham data on FGM mortality
• FGM Mortality Study – University of Birmingham, 2023
• CSW events on FGM and survivor-led care

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Creator & Host: Aya Chebbi

Producer: Omom Mbu-Ogar

Graphic Designer.: Kenechukwu Nwachukwu

Music License Agreement signed for the Use of ‘Fire’ by Mpho featuring MiDi KwaKwa