Aug 18, 2026
What does it mean to be part of the solution when life turns upside down? Dunia Shafik shares the heart-wrenching story of her son’s journey from victim to perpetrator of knife crime and the hidden sentence carried by families left behind. Reflecting on cultural grooming, systemic failures, belonging and rehabilitation, Dunia reveals the profound moral decision to turn her son in, choosing prison over the grave.
Transforming trauma into purpose, she now works with young men, prisoners and mothers to challenge narratives of punishment and blame, championing empathy, courage and love-based solutions. This episode demonstrates how love over fear breaks cycles of trauma to transform lives and by doing so you choose to become part of the solution.
KEY TAKEAWAY
“Love wins. So instead of being stuck in fear, let's choose to be in love.”
ABOUT THE GUEST – DUNIA SHAFIK
Dunia Shafik is a community leader, coach and trainer specialising in supporting families impacted by the criminal justice system, with a focus on mothers and young men affected by youth violence and incarceration. She is the founder of Manhood from Within™, a Community Interest Company (CIC) delivering a CPD-accredited programme supporting young men and emerging men to develop mature masculinity, and A Life of Choices, a CIC empowering mothers of incarcerated children to reclaim their voices and strengthen their wellbeing.
Drawing on both professional expertise and lived experience as a mother of a son serving a life sentence, Dunia brings a trauma-informed, compassionate approach to her work. She holds a master’s degree in Youth and Community Work, is a qualified life coach and NLP Master Practitioner, and is committed to driving healing, rehabilitation, and social change.
CONNECT WITH DUNIA
https://www.instagram.com/a_life_of_choices/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dunia-shafik-627a4811b
https://www.alifeofchoices.com
https://www.manhoodfromwithin.co.uk
ABOUT THE HOST - AMY ROWLINSON
Amy is a purpose and fulfilment coach, author, podcast strategist and mastermind host who empowers purpose-driven leaders to boost productivity, engagement and meaning in life and work. Through transformational conversations, Amy helps individuals overcome overwhelm and live with clarity, building living legacies along the way.
WORK WITH AMY
If you’re interested in how purpose can help you and/or your business, please book a free 30 min call via https://calendly.com/amyrowlinson/call
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HOSTED BY AMY ROWLINSON
DISCLAIMER
The views, thoughts and opinions expressed in this podcast belong solely to the host and guest speakers. Please conduct your own due diligence.
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