Leyla Hussein

Dr. Leyla Hussein is a psychotherapist, specializing in supporting survivors of sexual abuse. She is an international lecturer on female genital mutilation (FGM) and a speaker on gender rights. Recognized globally as one of the key experts on FGM, she is a leading and award-winning international campaigner against all forms of violence against women and girls. Leyla founded The Dahlia Project, the UK’s first specialist therapeutic service for FGM survivors. In 2020, she was elected as Rector of the University of St Andrews for a three-year term, making history as the first Black woman to hold the position. She currently works as the Global Advocacy Director for The Girl Generation. Additionally, Leyla is a well-being expert who has worked with the UN, WHO, the UK government, and various other organisations.