AkiDwA is delighted to co-host this training webinar with the Irish Association of Social Workers, focusing on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and Early and Forced Marriage (EFM) through a woman-centred and culturally sensitive approach.

FGM and EFM are forms of gender-based violence and violations of human rights that can have significant and long-term impacts on women and girls. Social workers play an important role in identifying risks, safeguarding children and young people, and providing appropriate and sensitive support to women and girls who may be affected.

The webinar will explore the social and cultural contexts surrounding FGM and EFM, with particular attention to FGM classifications and associated health consequences. It will also equip social workers with practical knowledge and skills to support and advocate for women and girls affected by these practices.

Topics will include woman -centred and culturally sensitive support, supportive consultation, safeguarding, referral pathways, and the relevant legal framework in Ireland.

To learn more about AkiDwA's work, visit www.akidwa.ie 

Speaker Biographies

Euphomia Edward (SAFE Project Coordinator – AkiDwA)

Euphomia Edward is the SAFE Project Coordinator with AkiDwA, where she leads work on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and early and forced marriage through community engagement, training, advocacy and partnership building.

She has over eight years of experience working on programmes supporting women and girls and is passionate about gender equality, human rights and community-led social change. Euphomia holds an MA in Gender, Globalisation and Rights from the University of Galway.

Deborah Odeworitse Oniah (Community Leader – SAFE Project)

Deborah Odeworitse Oniah is a Community Leader with AkiDwA’s SAFE Project and a community researcher, lawyer, writer, and facilitator. She has experience in qualitative and peer-led research, with a particular focus on migrant communities, parenting, housing, and lived experiences in Ireland. Deborah holds a Master’s Degree in Children’s Rights and Family Law and an MSc in Trauma Studies from University College Cork. She brings an empathetic, culturally sensitive, and trauma-informed approach to her community engagement and research work.