She was forced into marriage in Norway at the age of 13, to her own cousin. Now Daniella Nordhagen is being honoured for using her own story to help other girls living with coercion, control and fear.
– I’m also thinking of myself at 13 – I could never have imagined standing here today.
That’s what Daniella Nordhagen said as she received Jenteprisen (the Girls’ Prize) at Clarion Hotel The Hub in Oslo on Sunday 11 October. She receives the prize for her work against forced marriage, social control and honour-related violence.
Turned her own story into a tool for change
Nordhagen came to Norway from Iraq as a small child. At 13, she was forced into marriage. She has since told of her experiences in the book 1178 netter (1178 Nights), written together with journalist Marte Spurkland, and in the documentary series Barnebruden (The Child Bride).
She has also given talks and shared her knowledge with schools, organisations, child welfare services and support services.
Jury chair Isabelle Ringnes emphasises that Nordhagen has used a painful personal experience to create change. The jury believes her openness gives hope to girls who still live under coercion and control.
Thinking of the girls who still live in fear
In her acceptance speech, Nordhagen turned her attention to girls who see no way out of their situation. She expressed a wish that they will get to shape their own future.
She also spoke about her daughter, and the hope that she will grow up in a world where being a girl never limits her opportunities.
68 nominees
Among this year’s 68 candidates were Queen Sonja, Lise Klaveness, Musti and Sa_G. The prize recognises people and organisations who make a special effort for girls’ rights and gender equality.
Plan International Norway has awarded Jenteprisen since 2012. The ceremony took place on the UN’s International Day of the Girl, 11 October, and was organised in collaboration with Costume, Tise and Clarion Hotel The Hub.