British Somaliland Protectorate, 1937

Imagine you’re born in a country pushing for independence, where healthcare is practically non-existent, and everyone expects you to be someone’s wife, cook some food, and call it a day. That’s it. No big dreams allowed.

Now, meet Edna Adan Ismail. A woman who looked around at that setup and thought, “Yeah, no thanks!”

Edna grew up in Somaliland at a time when there were barely any doctors, medical supplies were a joke, and society didn’t exactly cheer women on to be changemakers.

She even endured FGM, but Edna wasn’t about to let anything stop her. Despite the naysayers, she fought for her education, chased her dream of becoming a midwife, and went on to teach women how to safely deliver babies in her country—always telling herself, “If I don’t do it, then who will?”

The Struggle, 1969-2002

But life wasn’t all sunshine and perfect hospital wards. Edna lost everything she loved during political tensions, got divorced 4 times (yeah, 4), lost her family and friends, and even ended up in prison.

Most people would throw in the towel at this point, but not Edna.

She bounced back with an insane determination, building the first non-profit charity hospital after the Somali Civil War, and being part of the reestablishment of healthcare in Somaliland, all in her retirement years.

And now, she’s encouraging you and me to get up, stand out, and fix some of the world’s mess, too.

If you’re thinking, “Okay, but what does this have to do with me?”

Hold on, I’m getting to that.

Who Should Be Grabbing This Book

This book is basically an anthem for anyone standing on the edge of a big, scary decision.

It’s an additional encouragement tool to whisper, “You got this, give it time and effort.”

So, here’s who needs to read it:

1. If you’re switching careers to something totally new, wondering if you’ll come out stronger or get fired in a month.
2. If you’re diving into undergrad, master’s, or getting your PhD and freaking out about whether you’ll handle it or collapse in a mountain of textbooks.
3. If you’re trying to leave a toxic relationship but are scared of what’s on the other side of that breakup (spoiler: freedom).
4. If you have a dream that no one understands, and your friends, parents, or partner are all like, “Are you sure?” (Yes, you are).
5. If you’re dreaming of starting an organization to change the world or a ministry for God’s kingdom but feel wildly underqualified and short on resources.
6. If you’re stuck feeling friendless in this weirdly connected-yet-lonely world and want to find someone who gets you (they’re out there, promise).
7. If you’ve tried everything to find a partner—from church, to school, to a new country—and you’re about to give up (don’t).
8. If you’ve just moved to a new city or country and feel like an imposter, and you’ve drawn conclusions, you’ll never fit in.
9. If you want to be the change in your community that no one else is brave enough to step up for.

What You’ll Learn from A Woman of Firsts

Edna’s life is full of lessons, but here’s the real stuff she’ll teach you:

1. Courage to Step Into the Uncomfortable.
2. Success is About Lifting Others.
3. Be a Lifelong Learner.

Brave enough to step into the unknown, even when it feels impossible?

This book has been an extra shot of courage for me in a new chapter of my life, and it’s done the same for my friends—and millions of others who’ve picked it up.

Seriously, sneak this into your bag while hopping on a taxi or waiting for your food delivery. You’ll be glad you did.

Don’t ever underestimate the capacity of a human being who is determined to do something — Edna Adan Ismail.

Ever since The Witcher got a recast and Henry Cavill hung up his swords, something feels off. Maybe it’s the grey clouds or the chill in the air. Whatever it is, we can all agree the world hasn’t been the same. But there’s a solution—a Henry Cavill movie marathon. Watching enough of his roles might just restore balance. From action-packed blockbusters to charming historical dramas, here are 10 films where Cavill’s undeniable talent shines.

---

1. Man of Steel (2013)

Awards: MTV Movie Award for Best Hero (nominee)
It’s impossible to talk about Henry Cavill without mentioning Man of Steel, where he donned the iconic cape and took flight as Superman. Cavill brings a perfect mix of humanity and power to the role, making it one of his most beloved performances. Whether it’s his quiet moments as Clark Kent or his epic battles as Superman, this film set the tone for Cavill’s portrayal of the superhero in future DC films.

2. Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016)

Cavill returns as Superman, and this time, he’s facing off against the Dark Knight himself, whats there more to say? Though controversial, this film delivered some of the most intense superhero clashes, and Cavill’s take on a more conflicted, world-weary Superman added depth to the character. Love it or hate it, you can’t deny the visual spectacle.

3. The Man from U.N.C.L.E. (2015)

Looking for something a little more stylish? The Man from U.N.C.L.E. is Cavill at his suave best. Playing CIA agent Napoleon Solo, Cavill oozes charm and wit alongside Armie Hammer in this action-packed yet light-hearted spy thriller. It’s got 60s espionage vibes, great fashion, and Cavill in sharp suits—what more could you want?

4. Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018)

Awards: Critics’ Choice Movie Award for Best Action Movie (Nominee)
Cavill’s turn as August Walker in Mission: Impossible – Fallout is nothing short of thrilling. Teaming up with (and later going head-to-head against) Tom Cruise, Cavill proves he’s got the chops to hang in one of the best action franchises out there. Plus, who can forget that iconic bathroom fight scene? Cavill’s moustache may have sparked controversy elsewhere (Justice League cough), but here it’s all part of the charm.

5. Enola Holmes (2020)

Playing Sherlock Holmes in Enola Holmes was a delightful surprise. Cavill brings a more laid-back and affable approach to the famous detective, letting Millie Bobby Brown’s Enola shine while still commanding the screen in his own right. It’s a charming film with a fresh take on the Holmes universe, and Cavill’s chemistry with Brown is spot-on.

6. Immortals (2011)

Before he became Superman, Cavill took on the role of Theseus in Immortals, a visually stunning epic about Greek mythology. Directed by Tarsem Singh, this film is a feast for the eyes with its striking visuals and intense action. Cavill’s portrayal of the heroic Theseus showcases his early action-star potential, battling gods and monsters with gusto.

7. Justice League (2017) / Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021)

Awards: Razzie Award for Worst Remake (Justice League), Redemption with Snyder Cut
While the original Justice League had its issues, the 2021 Snyder Cut gave fans what they’d been waiting for—a more fleshed-out and powerful Superman arc. Cavill’s portrayal was more rounded and heroic in this version, offering redemption for the character and the actor alike. If you’ve been curious about the infamous Snyder Cut, it’s definitely worth the 4-hour runtime.

8. Night Hunter (2018)

In Night Hunter, Cavill steps away from the superhero world to play a more grounded role as Detective Marshall, trying to catch a dangerous serial killer. It’s a darker, grittier role that shows his versatility as an actor. While the film itself received mixed reviews, Cavill’s intense performance stands out.

---

Honourable Mention: The Witcher (2019-2023)
While it’s not a film, we can’t forget Cavill’s turn as Geralt of Rivia in The Witcher. His dedication to the role, both in terms of the physicality and his deep knowledge of the lore, made him a fan favourite. Although the recast looms, Cavill’s portrayal of the White Wolf remains legendary.

---

So, whether you’re craving some superhero action, spy drama, or fantasy adventures, Henry Cavill has you covered. Each of these films showcases a different side of his acting range, and who knows—if we watch just enough Henry Cavill, the weather might just stop acting up.

If you love a story with heart and determination, you’re going to want to get to know Adunni, the young protagonist of this novel. She’s a 14-year-old Nigerian girl who’s stuck in circumstances beyond her control, but what sets her apart is her fierce desire to get an education and make something of herself. That’s where the title comes in—Adunni is determined to find her “louding voice,” which is her way of saying she wants to speak up for herself and be heard.

The book is written in Adunni’s broken English, which might take a minute to get used to, but it quickly becomes one of the most endearing parts of the story. It feels like you’re right there with her, experiencing her world firsthand. And trust me, her world isn’t easy. She faces all sorts of challenges, from being sold into marriage to working as a servant in a wealthy household. But no matter what, she keeps her dream of getting an education alive.

One of the things that makes this book so special is how it balances such heavy themes—child marriage, servitude, and inequality—with Adunni’s unshakable hope and optimism. You can’t help but root for her as she fights to break free from the life others have chosen for her.

It’s also a deeply emotional read. There are moments when you’ll feel angry on her behalf, but there are also moments of joy and hope that shine through. Adunni’s journey is a reminder of the power of education, and how one person’s determination can make a difference, not just for themselves, but for their community.

Overall, The Girl with the Louding Voice is an uplifting and powerful read that will stick with you long after you’ve turned the last page. It’s a story of resilience and the importance of finding your own voice, no matter how many obstacles stand in your way. A story you’ve heard before but not like this, a blend of fiction with facts that give it better context than you’d anticipate.

Have you read it yet? If not, I’d highly recommend giving it a go!