‘‘As a woman leader in GBV response, I face immense challenges, especially due to cultural norms that discourage open discussions on such topics. But I refuse to stay silent. I have seen firsthand the consequences of GBV on women and girls. It is my responsibility to use my voice to break the cycle of violence.’’
In the heart of Somalia, 27-year-old Falis* is an advocate of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) prevention and response. One of her most significant accomplishments has been developing community-driven support systems to tackle GBV. By training local leaders to recognize and respond to cases of violence, she has helped create a network of support that provides vital assistance to survivors.
The driving force behind her work is the transformation she sees in survivors—helping them regain their dignity and rebuild their lives. Despite the emotional toll of her work, she finds strength in knowing that her efforts are contributing to a broader societal change. She stresses the importance of self-care and support from colleagues, ensuring that both she and her team are mentally equipped to continue their work. Looking to the future, she envisions a world where GBV is no longer tolerated, and survivors receive the support they need without stigma.
One of the key areas Falis* has focused on is policy advocacy. While she wasn't directly involved in the development of the Anti-FGM policy, she has played a critical role in pushing for stronger legal protections for women and girls. Somali Women Study’s Centre has been an active participant in this initiative, working with community leaders, stakeholders, and government officials to ensure the law is implemented effectively. Falis* has also contributed significantly to legal reforms in Jubaland State, where a gender desk has been established within the police force, allowing for better handling of GBV cases.
Falis*’s Story
"My name is Falis* Farah. I am 27 years old and currently live with my friends in Kismayo, Somalia. I am not married and do not have children, which allows me to dedicate most of my time to my work.
Tell us a bit about your work and how you became involved in gender-based violence prevention?
“I have been working as a Program Manager for SWSC under GAASHAAN project focused on GBV prevention and response for about a year and a half now.
“I start my mornings by meeting with survivors, conducting awareness sessions, and ensuring that communities understand GBV and women’s rights. My role is really about connecting survivors to the help they need—whether that’s medical treatment, legal aid, or counselling. I’m passionate about creating a safe environment where women and girls feel empowered to speak up and seek support.
Can you share more about some of the initiatives you've led or been a part of?
“One of the initiatives I’m particularly proud of is the development of community-based structures to prevent GBV.
“We’ve been training local leaders to identify and respond to cases of violence, and this has helped create a network of support that’s been crucial for survivors. These structures ensure that there is a local system in place to intervene early and provide help.
“I’ve also been involved in policy advocacy, especially around the Anti-FGM policy. While I didn’t directly contribute to its development, my organization has been very active in pushing for stronger legal protections for women and girls, and I’ve worked closely with government officials and community leaders to support that.
What’s one of the most memorable cases you've worked on?
“One case that really stands out to me was a young woman who came to our safe house. She had experienced violence, but when she first arrived, she was so scared of the stigma that comes with seeking help.
“In our culture, women are often expected to endure violence in silence, and asking for help can bring immense shame. But after spending hours talking with her, reassuring her that she wasn’t weak for seeking support, she finally began to trust us.
“After three weeks of counselling and support, she left the safe house much stronger, ready to rebuild her life. Moments like that remind me why I do this work.
What challenges have you faced along the way?
“This journey definitely hasn’t been easy so far.
“One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is the resistance from some community leaders and religious figures who view GBV as a private matter.
“There’s also a lot of cultural resistance to having women, especially women like me, lead discussions on GBV. But over time, through persistent dialogue, I’ve been able to gain the trust of some key leaders, and we’ve been able to shift their views. It hasn’t been quick, but it’s been rewarding.
What keeps you motivated through those challenges?
“The survivors, without a doubt. Seeing them regain their dignity, rebuild their lives, and access justice—that’s what motivates me every day.
“Even on the tough days, knowing that my work is contributing to a bigger change in society keeps me going. I also believe that through education, advocacy, and survivor-cantered support, we can break the cycle of violence and create long-term change.
How do you take care of yourself in such an emotionally demanding field?
“It’s really important to prioritize self-care. I have a strong support system of colleagues who understand the challenges we face. I also set aside time to reflect and practice mindfulness.
“Sometimes, I engage in activities that help me recharge, like spending time with loved ones or taking a walk. I also make sure my team has access to mental health resources because this kind of work can be draining. We have to take care of ourselves if we want to continue supporting others.
What would you say to young women who want to work in GBV prevention and response?
“I would tell them to stay resilient and passionate about their work. It’s not easy, but it’s incredibly important.
“Building strong networks, engaging with communities in ways that foster trust, and always prioritizing self-care are key. Change doesn’t happen overnight, but with dedication and a belief in the power of collective action, we can make a real difference.
You’ve been doing this work for a while now. What’s your vision for the future?
“My vision is a future where GBV is no longer tolerated, where survivors receive full support without stigma, and where communities actively work together to prevent violence.
“In the next five years, I hope to see stronger community-led protection structures, more effective policies, and a society where women and girls can live free from fear. The work is far from over, but I believe we’re on the right path.
As we approach International Women’s Day 2025, what message would you like to share with the world?
“My message is let’s empower women, challenge injustice, and stand together in the fight against GBV. A safer future starts with all of us taking action today.
About the GAASHAAN Project
The GAASHAN Programme, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), is a humanitarian initiative focused on preventing gender-based violence (GBV) and providing sustainable humanitarian aid to vulnerable communities in South Central Somalia. Led by Save the Children in collaboration with partners like International Rescue Committee, CARE International, Save Somali Women and Children (SSWC), Somali Women and Development Centre (SWDC), Somali Women’s Studies Centre (SWSC), and GREDO, the program directly benefits 43,756 individuals, including men, women, boys, and girls, with 5% being people with disabilities, across 18 districts in 9 regions. The program also reaches over 117,200 indirect beneficiaries through advocacy and awareness efforts, focusing on IDP camps and areas impacted by conflict and climate-related shocks.
