We have a college graduate!

It was some time 2016 or 2017 when I first got involved with Voice of the Free (then called Visayan Forum). It was for a public speaking workshop for a batch of survivors, intended to equip them with the skills to effectively share their bravery and resilience as they turn into freedom fighter advocates.

Three cohorts and almost seven years later, one of them, Gina, has now completed her tertiary education! I have had the pleasure of knowing Gina more over the years and she is such a light. I am so proud of and happy for her. Something else to look forward to? Members of later groups Cleofe and Lotty are in their 3rd and 2nd years of college, respectively. Extremely happy!

The work continues though. While many have already won their cases against their perpetrators and have reintegrated with their communities, as of this week, there are still around 50 survivors of human trafficking and sex slavery in the Center of Hope, most of which are recent rescues. Unfortunately some of them are as young as 2 years old.

I am glad that amazing people and the Macquarie Group Foundation continue to support the cause. If you want to get involved (and there are so many ways!), please let any of us know.