Dr Leyla Hussein

Dr Leyla Hussein OBE is an award-winning psychotherapist, author,global advocate for the rights of women and girls. Internationally recognised as a leading voice in the movement to end (FGM), she is a survivor of FGM and has dedicated more than two decades to advancing gender justice, trauma recovery, and the wellbeing of marginalised communities.

Leyla is the founder of The Dahlia Project, the UK  first specialist therapeutic service for survivors of FGM, providing trauma-informed support to women affected by violence and abuse. She currently serves as Global Advocacy Director for  TGG, where she works alongside activists, survivors, governments, and donors to strengthen the Africa-led movement to end FGM.

An internationally sought-after speaker, Leyla has advised organisations including the United Nations, the World Health Organization, governments, and civil society organisations worldwide. In 2020, she made history as the first Black woman elected Rector of University of St Andrews.

Alongside her advocacy work, Leyla maintains a psychotherapy practice supporting survivors of sexual violence, torture, and trauma. Her work bridges activism, healing, and social change, championing survivor leadership, wellbeing, and human rights. Through her writing, public speaking, and therapeutic work, she continues to inspire efforts to create a safer and more equitable world.