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Tree of Life
Psychosocial Healing and Empowerment for Survivors of FGM / Gender Based Violence
In Kenya, the Tree of Life (ToL) program, integrated with the BornPerfect Women’s Caravans, pioneers a powerful “from Trauma to Empowerment” model. This initiative delivers culturally sensitive psychosocial support directly to survivors of FGM and gender-based violence (GBV) within their communities, empowering them to become advocates for change. By facilitating safe spaces for shared healing and storytelling, ToL addresses the unique needs of Kenyan women, many of whom are speaking publicly about their experiences for the first time.
What is Tree of Life (ToL)?
The Tree of Life (ToL) is a survivor-led 1 day programme that offers a safe space for women who have experienced FGM or GBV to share their trauma, find healing, build community and reclaim their power. It uses storytelling and metaphors to build resilience and reframe negative experiences, in the comfort of survivors’ own communities.
Psychosocial Support
Tree of Life (ToL) workshops are delivered twice per region during the Born Perfect Campaign. Activists are first trained in ToL facilitation during 5-day Academies. Then, the day before the Caravans arrive, these activists conduct ToL sessions in their villages, providing psychosocial support to FGM survivors ahead of the Caravan and media campaigns.
A ToL workshop in Tarime-Tanzania. 22nd July, 2024.
ToL was set in Kenya by Sadia Hussain and in Somalia by Ifrah Ahmed, both co-founders of FrontlineEndingFGM, to help survivors become activists.
The Tree of Life empowers women and girls to share their struggles, support each other, and create a positive atmosphere of empowerment.
A ToL diagram created in a ToL workshop.
The program uses the metaphor of a tree to symbolise growth, strength, and overcoming adversity.
Benefits of Tree of Life
- Explores cultural heritage and personal identity
- Identifies strengths, values, and abilities
- Develops hope for the future and strategies to overcome challenges
- Teaches how to resist abuse and protect others from FGM
- Builds a supportive community of women who understand your experiences
WHY CHOOSE TREE OF LIFE?
- Led by experienced facilitators who understand the impact of FGM and GBV
- Culturally sensitive and avoids Westernised therapy approaches
- Fun, engaging, and designed to reduce stigma
- Proven to be effective in building resilience and promoting social change
The Tree of Life Community is part of the BornPerfect Women’s Caravans. Together, we can create a future free from FGM.
See our BornPerfect Campaign working to eradicate FGM across 15 countries in Africa
www.frontlineendingfgm.org