Sahiyo will host its 12th annual Activists Retreat virtually from October 16-18, 2026. This year, the retreat will not only be open to survivors and activists from FGM/C-impacted communities, but will also welcome advocates from community-based organizations interested in learning more about FGM/C as part of Sahiyo’s pilot initiative to broaden participation and engage advocates from the wider gender justice community. Those interested in participating are encouraged to submit the Activists Retreat 2026 Interest Form by June 30, 2026.
The Activists Retreat provides a safe, inclusive space for advocates and community members to share stories, build solidarity, and explore practical strategies to address FGM/C. Through dialogue, reflection, and collective action planning, participants will connect with peers and practitioners to develop sustainable, culturally responsive approaches to ending FGM/C.
2026 Retreat Details:
When:
- Friday, October 16: 8:00 – 9:30 PM ET
- Saturday, October 17: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM ET
- Sunday, October 18: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM ET
Who: Survivors, individuals, and activists from FGM/C impacted communities and advocates from community-based organizations interested in learning more about FGM/C are welcome to apply! Please submit the Activists Retreat 2026 Interest Form by June 30th, 2026.
What to Expect: Over three days, the virtual retreat will include educational sessions, advocacy workshops, presentations, self-care activities, and discussions on creating meaningful change. Participants will:
- Strengthen capacity to engage in activism through sharing knowledge, resources, and networks.
- Build a support network for activists working to empower communities to abandon FGM/C.
- Engage in a safe space to learn more about the issue.
Want to learn what the experience is like? Read Lubaina Plumber’s reflection, ”Beyond Advocacy: How the Sahiyo Retreat Deepened My Healing,” where she describes leaving the retreat with “a deep sense of connection” and finding a space where “the weight of our experiences is understood, held, and respected without question.”
