Our Expert Suvi Lensu

The newest addition to International Solidarity Foundation’s (ISF) expert team is Suvi Lensu, a PhD in Anthropology and African Studies.

She has researched the informal economy of women and gender minorities and their mobility across Eastern Congo and Rwanda. Thanks to her education and international experience, she brings a broad understanding of development policy and efforts to combat gender-based violence.

Eastern Finnish roots with a global outlook

At home, Lensu speaks a mix of three languages with her German husband and their four-year-old son. Originally from Lappeenranta, she has lived in nine different countries across three continents, though her speech still carries a hint of her Karelian background.

“I don’t believe in fate, but it was some incredible coincidence that I had just finished my dissertation when this expert position in gender-based violence focusing specifically on East Africa opened up. It was a perfect match!”

Expert in development cooperation and cross-border issues

Lensu studied Anthropology, African Studies, and Development Studies at SOAS (School of Oriental and African Studies, London). There, she developed a critical perspective on traditional development cooperation. She is especially interested in how we can make societies and communities more equitable for everyone.

“Decolonization, equality, and gender issues are of utmost importance.” According to Lensu, it’s essential to understand that all of Europe, including Finland, has benefited from a colonial past.

She is also interested in transnational issues. “For instance, climate change doesn’t recognize borders; it’s something that will affect us all,” Lensu notes. She believes it’s crucial to act as an ally while also recognizing her role as a learner.

The far-reaching harms of FGM

Lensu reflects on how female genital mutilation (FGM) could be viewed as a societal issue rather than just a matter for families or women. “It’s essential to understand that FGM intersects with many other issues, like early marriage, job opportunities, physical pain, and mobility. FGM is an irreversible, lifelong experience that profoundly impacts a person’s life opportunities within their community.”

Overall, Lensu feels there’s growing support for improving women’s status in East Africa. “There’s an understanding that the whole family, and everyone, benefits when girls get an education and women have employment opportunities.”

However, FGM remains shrouded in taboo and stigma. “FGM isn’t widely recognized as a major gender and equality issue; it’s often viewed as a women’s matter,” Lensu explains.

Global sisterhood

Lensu shares a memorable moment from Ethiopia: a woman from a partner organization wanted to thank her with a henna tattoo.

“I found it a beautiful moment. Across all religious and cultural differences, there was a connection—this global sisterhood among women.”