Tree of Life
Healing and Empowerment for Survivors of FGM / Gender Based Violence
What is the Tree of Life?
The Tree of Life is a survivor-led psychosocial support programme that offers a safe space for survivors of FGM to open up about their experiences in a peer-led setting. It empowers women to reclaim their power and begin healing from their traumas. It uses storytelling and metaphors to build resilience and reframe negative experiences.
A ToL workshop in Migori – Kenya. 19th February, 2026
Bringing trauma support sessions to women in remote communities: survivor activists are trained by experts in holding Tree of Life sessions, which are conducted in each community before the arrival of the Caravan to avoid retraumatisation.Â
A ToL workshop in Sierra Leone. November, 2025
As a survivor-led model, the Tree of Life encourages women to break the silence about living with FGM and support one another in a safe environment.Â
A ToL workshop in Tarime-Tanzania. 22nd July, 2024.
This training provides survivors with the tools to become advocates against FGM and provide peer-led trauma support for local women.
A ToL diagram created in a ToL workshop.
The programme uses the metaphor of a tree to symbolise growth, strength, and overcoming adversity.
Benefits of Tree of Life
- Explores cultural heritage and personal identity
- Identifies strengths, values, and abilities
- Develops hope for the future and strategies to overcome challenges
- Teaches how to resist abuse and protect others from FGM
- Builds a supportive community of women who understand your experiences
WHY CHOOSE TREE OF LIFE?
- Led by experienced facilitators who understand the impact of FGM and GBV
- Culturally sensitive and avoids Westernised therapy approaches
- Fun, engaging, and designed to reduce stigma
- Proven to be effective in building resilience and promoting social change
The Tree of Life Community is part of the Born Perfect Women’s Caravans. Together, we can create a future free from FGM.