Switched is a youth-created film and workshop project focused on ending Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) by involving all young people, not just those typically seen as directly affected.
What we did
‘Switched’ is a youth-created film and workshop project focused on ending female genital mutilation (FGM) by involving all young people, not just those typically seen as directly affected. Recognising that prevention is everyone’s responsibility, Integrate’s young people led the creation of a short drama that challenges assumptions and calls for shared understanding and action.
‘Switched’ imagines a parallel universe where FGM is carried out on boys instead of girls, using this reversal to confront the realities of FGM, challenge assumptions and encourage shared understanding and male allyship in ending the practice.
Young people were involved in every part of the process, from writing and acting to directing and editing. The film became the centrepiece of a UK-wide workshop series delivered by trained peer educators. These sessions combined storytelling with open discussion and reflection, breaking the silence, challenging stigma and giving young people the knowledge and confidence to recognise risk and seek help.
The resource encourages discussion around the inclusion of men and boys in the fight to end FGM.
Switched changed attitudes in classrooms, it influenced how schools and professionals think about safeguarding and how prevention works best when all students are informed, included and empowered.
Impact results
| Stat | Impact |
|---|---|
1300% | I feel knowledgeable to discuss FGM with my peers. |
400% | Men and boys should play a key role in ending FGM. |
‘If we give them opportunities and learn to listen, anything is possible’.
Lisa Zimmermann, CEO
