Vadodara: An inspiring session on leadership and human rights was held at GSFC University where internationally recognised speaker and human trafficking survivor advocate Harold D’Souza shared his powerful life story with students and faculty members.
The programme titled “Young Leaders: Global Impact” was organised by the International Cell of the university and took place at the School of Technology (SoT) Auditorium. The event brought together hundreds of students, faculty members, and university leaders who gathered to hear a compelling narrative of resilience, courage, and hope.
Harold D’Souza, who is the Co-Founder of Eyes Open International in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA, and a former Co-Chair and Member of the U.S. White House Advisory Council on Human Trafficking, captivated the audience with his personal journey from exploitation to global advocacy.
A story of courage and resilience
From the moment Harold D’Souza began speaking, the atmosphere in the auditorium shifted. His deeply personal account of surviving labour trafficking and debt bondage in the United States left the audience attentive and emotionally moved.
He explained how victims of human trafficking are often manipulated, threatened, and isolated by traffickers to maintain control. Recalling one of the most frightening moments of his life, he shared how his trafficker warned him that escape would be impossible.
Despite the threats and intimidation, Harold chose to fight against fear and injustice. Through determination, faith, and resilience, he eventually escaped exploitation and dedicated his life to raising global awareness about human trafficking.
Today, he travels internationally, educating communities and advocating for stronger protection for victims of modern-day slavery.
Remembering his roots and values
During the session, Harold D’Souza reflected on his roots in India and the life lessons he learned from his father. With emotion, he shared a powerful memory from his childhood.
“In 1957, my father slept at night on the Dabhoi Railway Station platform in Gujarat,” he said. “In the morning, he would take a shower in the railway waiting room and start his day working as a train conductor. Today, his son stands before you.”
The auditorium fell silent as students absorbed the powerful message about humility, perseverance, and gratitude.
He also recalled an important piece of advice his father gave him that shaped his outlook on leadership.
“Harold, people should respect you, not your chair,” he said, emphasising that true leadership comes from character rather than authority.
Importance of human rights awareness
Throughout the session, Harold highlighted the significance of the 30 Articles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, stressing that awareness of human rights should begin at an early age.
“Human rights should be taught to every child like ABCD,” he said, urging students to become ambassadors for awareness, compassion, and justice.
He encouraged young people to stand up against injustice and play an active role in protecting the dignity and freedom of individuals around the world.
Interactive discussion with students
The session evolved into an engaging conversation as students actively participated in the discussion by asking thoughtful questions.
Some students asked how young people could overcome depression and hopelessness, while others wondered whether trust still exists in a world where deception and exploitation are widespread.
Harold responded candidly, encouraging students to transform challenges into opportunities and remain resilient in the face of adversity.
“Never allow fear to silence your voice,” he told them. “Every one of you has the power to create change.”
Recognition and appreciation
At the conclusion of the event, Harold D’Souza was honoured by Dr Shilpa Vilish Gamit, Dr Jahanvi Bansal, Dr Ranjita Banerjee, and the students of GSFC University in recognition of his inspiring work in youth leadership and global awareness.
Dr Jahanvi Bansal later expressed appreciation for the impact of his visit.
“Your story and the session you conducted were truly inspiring, motivating, and beyond imagination,” she said.
She also noted that University President Shri P. K. Taneja (Retd. IAS) appreciated the presentation and encouraged the university to share the lessons from the session across the campus community.
Students inspired by the session
Among the many students moved by the talk was Chahana Kamder, a third-year Computer Science and Engineering student (Class of 2027).
She described the session as eye-opening and said Harold’s story highlighted the importance of awareness, courage, and informed decision-making, especially for young people entering an increasingly globalised world.
Chahana also reflected on Harold’s guiding life principles, which he described as the “7 C’s” that helped him rebuild his life: Consistency, Continuity, Change, Creativity, Courage, Compassion, and Commitment.
“These values are important not only for leadership but also for building resilience and creating meaningful impact in society,” she said.
A message of hope for future leaders
As the session concluded, students left the auditorium with renewed motivation and a deeper understanding of global human rights challenges.
Harold D’Souza’s life journey—from hardship and exploitation to global advocacy—stands as a powerful reminder that courage and determination can transform even the most difficult experiences into a mission for change.
Through his work, he continues to inspire communities worldwide to stand against injustice and build a future where freedom, dignity, and human rights are protected for all.