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A Woman of Firsts

The midwife who built a hospital and changed the world

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A Woman of Firsts

By: Edna Adan Ismail, Wendy Holden
Narrated by: Edna Adan Ismail
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About this listen

Winner of the 2023 Templeton Prize

Imprisonment. Mutilation. Persecution.

Edna Adan Ismail endured it all – for the women of Africa.

Imprisonment. Mutilation. Persecution.

‘The Muslim Mother Teresa’ Huffington Post

Edna Adan Ismail endured it all – for the women of Africa.

Edna saw first-hand how poor healthcare, lack of education and ancient superstitions had devastating effects on Somaliland’s people, especially its women. When she suffered the trauma of FGM herself as a young girl at the bidding of her mother, Edna’s determination was set.

The first midwife to practise in Somaliland, Edna became a formidable teacher and campaigner for women’s health. As her country was swept up in its bloody fight for independence, Edna rose to become its First Lady and first female cabinet minister.

She built her own hospital, brick by brick, training future generations in what has been hailed as one of the Horn of Africa’s finest university hospitals

This is Edna’s truly remarkable story.

©2019 Edna Adan Ismail, Wendy Holden (P)2019 HarperCollins Publishers Limited Gender Studies Politics & Government Social Sciences Women Women in Politics Heartfelt Inspiring

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Critic reviews

"The Muslim Mother Teresa." (The Huffington Post)

"As tough as General Petraeus, as compassionate as the Pope, as tireless as Michael Phelps, as beautiful as Tina Turner, and with a work ethic to rival Bill Gates." (Kirsty Young, Desert Island Discs)
All stars
Most relevant  
Loved every single moment of it. I needed this, to carry on fighting for my dream and be the change i want to see in the world.

Oh my 😭

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Edna is the David Attenborough of health care and the most amazing woman I have ever read about.

Truly inspirational

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Not always comfortable read but what an inspirational woman definitely worth reading, an amazing woman.

A Must Read Book

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A truly important, powerful book. I always had great respect for Edna Aden however understanding her journey through life has only left a deeper reservoir of respect in me. I am grateful that Edna Adan made a decision to document her life and will be a part of the many legacies she will leave behind. This will be a book I will pass down to my children. God bless Edna Adan.

Inspirational

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She is a great human.

She is a great teacher.

She is a great author.

She is a great narrator.

And, the list goes on and on and on! I don’t know how many repetitions of the word “great” will be required to encompass all-and-every aspect of the personality of Edna Adan Ismail.

She is one of the greatest daughters of Africa!

She is Great in not one but many respects!

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To hear Edna Adan Ismail read this book was outstanding and a pleasure to hear.

fantastic

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I loved this book. Edna is such an incredible woman. To have not only survived but thrived is truly inspirational.

Inspired, harrowing and humbling.

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Probably one of the best books I've read/listened to ever.Every doctor or midwife or nurse should read this book .I think the author is amazing such a powerful lovely lady and has my total admiration. You must listen to this book !

Powerful book

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What a fantastic book, every femal should read, be grateful for your life and others

Outstanding

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A great depth of history on Somaliland and its conflict with Somalia whilst following the story of an incredible hero! What a life to have led. So many achievements and so many set backs. You’re left constantly rooting for Edna! I was addicted to this book. I usually only listen on journeys but I found myself giving up an hour at home to listen to it...and I never do that!

Speechless

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