Crowned Miss World Somalia 2025, Zainab Jama is using her platform not for glamour, but for global advocacy against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM),a deeply rooted cultural practice that continues to harm millions of girls across Africa.
Her story is not just one of survival; it is a powerful example of turning personal trauma into transformative leadership. Zainab Jama’s FGM advocacy is now one of the most influential efforts emerging from East Africa.
Understanding the Crisis: FGM in Somalia
According to UNICEF and UNFPA, Somalia has one of the highest prevalence rates of FGM in the world, with over 98% of women aged 15–49 affected by the practice. Often carried out on young girls between the ages of 5 and 14, FGM causes severe physical and emotional trauma, long-term health complications, and even death in extreme cases.
FGM is not a religious requirement, yet many communities continue the practice due to social pressure, myths about cleanliness, and the belief that it preserves a girl’s virtue and marriage prospects.
Zainab Jama’s Journey: Reclaiming Her Voice
Born in Somalia, Zainab Jama was subjected to FGM as a child, an experience that marked her life but never defined it. Instead of hiding her pain, she emerged stronger, determined to make sure no other girl would have to go through the same ordeal in silence.
Now a recognized beauty queen and human rights advocate, Zainab is shifting the global narrative on pageantry, using her platform to talk about taboo topics and drive real-world impact.
“I survived what broke many. I choose to rise, speak, and fight so no girl has to endure what I did.” — Zainab Jama
The Female Initiative Foundation: Driving Change at the Grassroots
Zainab is the founder of the Female Initiative Foundation, a nonprofit committed to:
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Ending FGM in Africa through education and advocacy
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Providing mental health support for FGM survivors
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Creating safe spaces for at-risk girls
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Empowering youth through community workshops and leadership programs
Through this foundation, Zainab is not only raising awareness,she is offering practical support to girls who have experienced or are at risk of FGM.
FGM Advocacy on a Global Stage
Zainab Jama’s FGM advocacy gained momentum when she was crowned Miss World Somalia 2025, giving her the global visibility to challenge long-standing norms. As part of the Miss World’s “Beauty With a Purpose” initiative, she travels across communities, schools, and global forums, spreading a message of education, healing, and hope.
Her campaign is backed by partnerships with local NGOs, mental health professionals, and women’s rights groups. In addition, she works with regional governments to push for legislative change and stronger enforcement of anti-FGM laws.
Why Zainab Jama’s Advocacy Matters
Zainab is part of a growing wave of young African women who are rewriting what leadership looks like—bold, personal, and rooted in community. She brings authenticity to her cause as a survivor-turned-advocate, making her one of the most influential voices in the global movement to end FGM.
Her work is vital, not just for Somalia but for the world. With an estimated 200 million girls and women worldwide affected by FGM, the fight is far from over.
How You Can Support the Fight Against FGM
You don’t need to be a pageant queen to make a difference. Here’s how you can support Zainab Jama’s mission:
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Follow and share her advocacy on social media platforms
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Donate to the Female Initiative Foundation or similar anti-FGM organizations
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Educate your community about the dangers and myths surrounding FGM
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Support legislation that protects girls from harmful traditional practices
Final Thoughts: A Queen with a Cause
Zainab Jama is proving that advocacy and beauty can go hand in hand. As Miss World Somalia 2025, she represents more than her country, she represents every girl who has ever been silenced and every woman who dares to fight back.
Her campaign to end FGM in Somalia and across Africa is a call to action for the global community. It’s time we all listened.
