Farida is 47 years old, born and raised in Belgium and the eldest of eight children of Moroccan parents. Although her mother could neither read nor write, all eight children are highly educated and successful in their professions. Her father inspired Farida to be curious. Her mother, on the other hand, is her role model in terms of charity. Today, Farida lives and works in Brussels, where she is a Senior Medical Director in an international pharmaceutical company specializing in diabetes and obesity. Farida's life has not always been easy. As a child of migrants and as young person living with obesity herself, she experienced bullying, exclusion and stigmatization. For Farida, health is central, regardless of poverty, wealth or background. Through her volunteer work as a doctor in Peru and Ecuador, she developed a deep understanding of the link between poverty and health. She saw that woman around the world face similar problems and wants to give them a voice. That is why she volunteers with Zonta and is member of the Zonta Club Brussels Zavel. For Farida, Zonta is a sisterhood where she can put her beliefs into practice. In this episode, Farida shares her impressive life story, talks about her challenges and successes, and gives an insight into her work and commitment to women's rights and health. An amazing energy bundle – worth listening.
