In the wake of a devastating civil war in Somalia that left a generation of young Somalis traumatized by sexual warfare and violent child exploitation, Elman and her mother opened the country’s first rape crisis center.⁠ Elman Peace continues to develop programs for the disarmament and rehabilitation of child soldiers.⁠ In her short career, Elman has made an impact at the grassroots level and the international diplomatic stage. ⁠⠀
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We spoke with Ilwad about her collaboration with Daily Paper, the healing power of surfing and art, and the intersection of activism, streetwear, and rehabilitation. ⁠⠀