Our aim was to equip six youth activists from FGM-affected communities with the skills and confidence to produce their own podcast series. Through an in-person capacity-building session in Brussels, the activists were trained in podcast production, storytelling, and digital outreach. Together, they developed and recorded ten podcast episodes exploring diverse perspectives and experiences on FGM. AwE Agency created the podcast’s jingle and artwork, and provided technical support during the production process.
We applied for this project to support and strengthen the voices of young women from FGM-affected diaspora communities across Europe. These Youth Ambassadors have long been active in raising awareness and advocating for an end to FGM, but lacked dedicated tools and platforms to fully express themselves and connect with wider audiences. We identified a need to build their digital communication skills, boost their confidence, and create a safe, youth-led space where they could speak freely and shape the narrative around FGM. The anti-FGM movement often lacks inclusive spaces for marginalised voices, and harmful or exclusionary narratives continue to discourage participation. Through this project, we aimed to address these gaps by equipping the Ambassadors with podcasting skills, giving them not only a platform but also ownership of the conversation. Our goal was to empower them to inform, inspire and lead change within their communities and beyond.