The Vavengers: Survivor-Powered Activism Against FGM

Female genital mutilation (FGM) is one of the most severe forms of gender-based violence, yet it remains shrouded in silence across much of the world. Despite legal bans, millions of girls continue to be cut every year. At the heart of the movement to end this practice is The Vavengers, a UK-based, survivor-led charity turning pain into power and silence into action.

In an exclusive feature for The View Magazine, Chief Executive Sema Gorno, patron Max Hill KC, and Gambian activist Lisa Tamara reveal how The Vavengers grew from a small group of “angry women” into a global force for change. They share stories of resilience, the barriers survivors face, and the groundbreaking 600-page global FGM data report set to launch at the 80th United Nations General Assembly.

From grassroots mobilisation in Gambia to survivor-led support hubs in London, the article uncovers the realities behind FGM: the cultural myths, the lack of enforcement, and the urgent need for governments to act. It also highlights the creative activism—film, art, and music—that has defined The Vavengers’ journey and continues to unite survivors worldwide.

This is not just another story about injustice. It’s a call to action. As Gorno insists, “It should be a no-brainer to implement these changes, whoever you are, wherever you are.”

Read the full article in The View 15 to discover how survivors are rewriting the narrative, how global law firms are joining the fight, and why this UN launch could be a turning point in ending FGM once and for all.

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Editorial article by The View.