Elisha is a graduate from Montclair State University, where she earned her degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing and a minor in Psychology. Passionate about creating meaningful change, she strives to use her background in marketing and psychology to help forge meaningful connections between brands and their audience. Doubling as a gymnastics coach, Elisha spends time working with kids, helping them develop their skills, confidence, and teamwork. By creating engaging and provocative content, Elisha aims to utilize her marketing background to support Sahiyo’s mission.
How did you first hear about Sahiyo?
I first came across Sahiyo on LinkedIn. At the time, I was looking for a role in social media, and when I discovered Sahiyo, I was immediately interested in the organization. Social media is such a powerful tool to facilitate meaningful conversation and create change, and when I learned more about Sahiyo and this internship, I knew I wanted to support the impactful work the organization was doing.
What was your experience of learning about female genital cutting (FGC) for the first time like?
Female genital cutting was something that I was aware of, but did not understand. I was unaware of the active anti-FGC movement and the ties that FGC has to one’s culture and community. I always thought of FGC as a “far away” issue, and learning about the lack of legislation in some states in the U.S. left me shocked and disappointed. I was confused about how a practice that causes harm to others can continue, and why not every state has legislation against it.
When and how did you first get involved with Sahiyo?
I first got involved with Sahiyo through this internship, which I started back in July 2025. One of my first projects was editing a video celebrating Sahiyo’s 10th anniversary. I was so nervous to show anyone my first draft, but Kristel and Kira offered amazing feedback and advice that helped out so much and led to a video I was proud of. Now, almost one year later, I have gained so much confidence in my editing skills and am excited to continue learning more.
What does your work with Sahiyo involve?
I create graphics, edit videos, write captions for Sahiyo’s social media accounts on Instagram, X, Facebook, and LinkedIn, and I also review reports for Sahiyo. I learned so much about video editing and got to express my creative side when creating graphics. It has been a lot of learning, but also a lot of fun.
How has your involvement with Sahiyo impacted your life?
Being involved with Sahiyo has taught me so much about the importance of listening, learning, and understanding. Coming from a non-practicing community, I did not know much about FGC and why it happens. Gradually, I learned, and that knowledge has become a powerful tool I will use to educate those around me.
What words of wisdom would you like to share with others who may be interested in supporting Sahiyo and the movement against FGC?
I would tell others who are interested in supporting Sahiyo to listen and learn. Learning more about FGC made me more passionate about my work and equipped me with the tools necessary to support Sahiyo in a meaningful way. Listening to survivor stories through the Voices to End FGM/C program, in particular, has taught me so much about FGC.
