Volunteer spotlight: Development intern Abigail Rose Cervantes
Abigail is an undergraduate at the University of Texas at Austin pursuing a major in English and a minor in Professional Sales and Business Development, as well as a certificate in Computer Science. With a passion for gender equality and social justice, she works to broadcast muffled voices, give young people the opportunity to excel and create, and establish a safe environment that everyone- particularly marginalized women and children- can flourish in. She is excited to prosper within Sahiyo as a Fundraising & Grants/Development Intern.
What was your experience of learning about female genital cutting (FGC) for the first time like?
FGC is an issue I have been ignorant about for a long time. There's hardly any mainstream news coverage, and it's seen as a taboo, as something that only exists in "certain" countries. It wasn't until Sahiyo that I realized just how widespread FGC is, and that survivors need support. Sahiyo has really opened my eyes to what that looks like and how to best provide it.
When and how did you first get involved with Sahiyo?
I got involved with Sahiyo as I was searching for internship opportunities in January 2023. I was drawn to the cause of ending FGC and wanted to help support Sahiyo's mission. Luckily, I was offered a position in April, and I was able to help the organization as a Development Intern.
What does your work with Sahiyo involve?
As a Development Intern, I work to provide funding and create long term partners for Sahiyo. We research grant opportunities and are active participants in drafting them. I work closely with Michelle, the Development Coordinator, and my peers to ensure that Sahiyo gains all the monetary support it can. Additionally, we search for other ways Sahiyo can gain support outside of donations, such as our Silent Auction.
How has your involvement with Sahiyo impacted your life? Sahiyo has educated me immensely. It has ridden my ignorance towards FGC and has opened my eyes to its prominence in America. Sahiyo has taught me that empathy is important, and that part of the change is supporting survivors by creating safe spaces for nuanced and complex conversations surrounding FGC.
What words of wisdom would you like to share with others who may be interested in supporting Sahiyo and the movement against FGC? Be empathetic. Don't believe that something is less important just because it is not as talked about in the media. Encourage conversations and support survivors. If you ever need to invest your time or money in something, do it with an organization like Sahiyo that uplifts suppressed voices and finances safe spaces for survivors.
