Arte is set to broadcast the film "Fleur du désert" (Desert Flower) on February 26, 2025, at 20:55, bringing to the small screen the poignant tale of Waris Dirie, directed by Sherry Hormann. This film recounts the extraordinary life of Dirie, a Somali woman who has become a symbol of resilience and activism against female genital mutilation.
Born to nomadic parents in Somalia, Waris Dirie's early life was marked by hardship. At the tender age of 5, she underwent female genital mutilation, a tradition deeply entrenched within her culture. When she turned 13, her father announced plans for her to marry an older man, prompting Waris to flee her home. Her perilous escape across the desert would eventually lead her to Mogadishu, where she sought refuge with her grandmother.
After some time, Dirie moved to London to work as a domestic servant at the Somali embassy. Struggling with loneliness and language barriers, her life took a pivotal turn when she met Marilyn, who not only took her under her wing but also helped her find work. It was during this period when Dirie caught the eye of renowned photographer Terence Donovan, leading to her rapid rise as one of the first African supermodels.
Despite her newfound fame, the emotional scars of her childhood lingered. It wasn’t until 1997 when Dirie decided to break her silence about her past. During an interview with Marie Claire, she disclosed her experience with genital mutilation, shocking the public and raising awareness of this human rights violation. Her testimony catalyzed her mission, and she became a UN ambassador for the fight against female genital mutilation.
Her autobiographical book, Fleur du désert, published in 1998, became a bestseller, selling over ten million copies worldwide. The book's success solidified her status as not just a model but also as a powerful advocate for women's rights. The film adaptation, released by Hormann in 2009, captures the intensity of Dirie's life and provides viewers with insight to her resilience and activism.
The film’s cast features Liya Kebede as Waris, alongside Timothy Spall, who plays the pivotal role of Terence Donovan. Spall, known for his more notorious role as Peter Pettigrew from the Harry Potter series, brings to life the transformational experience for Dirie, lifting her from obscurity to stardom.
Although the film garnered only 155,000 viewers at its theatrical release, its broadcast on television has found it greater acclaim. For example, one of its previous airings drew approximately 848,000 viewers, highlighting its powerful resonance with audiences. Arte hopes for even greater turnout this time around, signaling the importance of Dirie’s message and the necessity of raising awareness about the struggles many women still face today.
Waris Dirie continues her battle today through the Desert Flower Foundation, which she established to eradicate female genital mutilation and support victims. Her life story is not just one of survival but one of thriving against all odds, inspiring many to stand against gender-based violence and oppression.
So join Arte this February 26, 2025, at 20:55, to witness "Fleur du désert" and immerse yourself in the remarkable and moving life story of Waris Dirie, and take part in remembering the strength of those who are still fighting against such injustices.