At One Woman At A Time, our mission is to empower women and girls to shape their own futures, free from harm and fear. As part of this mission, our founder Jean Anderson has been collaborating with Essex Police and partners at Stansted Airport on Operation Limelight, a vital initiative aimed at safeguarding girls at risk of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
Operation Limelight is a targeted campaign that focuses on the peak summer travel months—a time when young girls are at higher risk of being taken overseas for FGM under the guise of family visits or cultural trips. By working with police, airport staff, and partner organizations, Jean and the team at One Woman At A Time are helping to raise awareness, identify at-risk individuals, and intervene before harm can occur.
The operation is centred around engaging with passengers at Stansted Airport, particularly those travelling to or from countries where FGM is prevalent. Staff are trained to spot signs of risk, while outreach efforts include providing resources, education, and support to families, emphasizing the legal and health implications of FGM.
Jean’s expertise as a retired midwife has been invaluable in this initiative. She has contributed to training sessions, helping airport staff and law enforcement understand the physical and emotional trauma caused by FGM and equipping them with the tools to engage sensitively with families. Through her work, Jean has helped ensure that Operation Limelight not only protects girls but also educates communities about the importance of abandoning this harmful practice.
The impact of Operation Limelight extends far beyond the airport. By partnering with Essex Police, local community groups, and international organizations, we are helping to build a broader network of protection and awareness. The initiative highlights the importance of collaboration in tackling FGM, demonstrating how law enforcement, health professionals, and charities can work together to create lasting change.
Through Operation Limelight, One Woman At A Time continues to advocate for the rights of women and girls, standing against harmful practices and ensuring that every girl has the chance to grow up safe, healthy, and free.
Your support helps us continue this critical work. Together, we can ensure that no girl is subjected to FGM, and every child is empowered to shape their own future.
#EndFGM #OperationLimelight #OneWomanAtATime #EmpoweringGirls
