Breaking Chains, Building Bridges: Harold D’Souza’s Journey of Resilience and Hope

Akron, Ohio: Global Ties, Akron recently hosted an impactful and inspiring event featuring international speaker and human trafficking survivor-thriver, Harold D’Souza. Known for his powerful advocacy and expertise in combating human labor trafficking, Harold D’Souza was invited to speak on the pressing challenges, gaps, and barriers within the global fight against human trafficking. This event, held at the University of Akron on August 30th and September 3rd, 2024, drew attention from both local and international audiences, reinforcing Global Ties, Akron’s commitment to building bridges between Ohio and the world.

Harold D’Souza, a former victim of labor trafficking, is now a leading global voice on human rights and anti-trafficking initiatives. During the event, Linda Powers, Legal Director – Ohio Human Trafficking Initiative, at the Ohio Attorney General’s Office under Dave Yost, formally invited D’Souza to Global Ties Leaders Meeting. Harold D’Souza serves as the Ambassador Advisory Council Member at the Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost Office. Powers praised D’Souza’s invaluable contributions to the human trafficking awareness landscape. Mary Kate Waggoner, Anti-Human Trafficking Advocate – Ohio Human Trafficking Initiative from the Attorney General’s Office also introduced D’Souza at the forum, describing his story as one of perseverance, courage, and resilience.

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Throughout his address, Harold D’Souza shared key insights from his personal and professional experience, focusing on four critical areas: red flags, problems, solutions, and resources in combating human labor trafficking. He explained how understanding the warning signs and potential pitfalls is crucial for both individuals and communities to prevent exploitation. D’Souza’s personal story of moving from slavery to success, illustrated the harsh realities of human trafficking, but more importantly, provided hope and actionable solutions to address these issues head-on.

D’Souza left the audience with four essential takeaways from his incredible journey of overcoming adversity: Be Happy: Despite the darkness of the past, finding joy and fulfillment is vital to healing and growth. Think Positive: Maintaining a positive mindset empowers survivors to rise above their circumstances and pursue their dreams. Never Quit: Persistence in the face of adversity is key to creating meaningful change. Believe in Yourself: Trusting in one’s potential is fundamental to breaking free from the chains of exploitation.

The significance of this event was further elevated by Global Ties hosting five leaders from India, who addressed the critical topics of protecting human rights, preventing online child sexual abuse, gender violence, and human trafficking. Their global perspectives added depth to the discussion, underlining the importance of international collaboration in addressing these global crises.

In addition to the University of Akron event, Harold D’Souza had the privilege of meeting former Ohio State House Representative and Summit County Clerk of Courts, Akron, Tavia Galonski, a long-time advocate for human rights and justice. Galonski praised D’Souza for his remarkable journey and relentless dedication to helping vulnerable populations worldwide.

Harold’s impact continued September 5th, when he was invited as the keynote speaker at a major fundraising event hosted by Young Professionals representing Cincinnati Works. The fundraiser, which aimed to raise $25,000, witnessed an emotionally charged atmosphere as D’Souza’s powerful speech moved the audience to tears. His words not only inspired action but also strengthened the collective resolve to continue the fight against human trafficking.

Shaqunna Sardin shared; What an incredible success at the Cincinnati Works YP (Young Professionals) Board fundraiser! We were honored to hear from Harold D’Souza, whose powerful story truly moved us. Harold shared how his journey with Cincinnati Works shaped his outlook on life, saying, “It may not have been the best circumstances that brought us to Cincinnati Works, but it laid the foundation for how I see the world today. I have nothing but gratitude for the experience.” Harold D’Souza’s words remind us of the impact, Cincinnati Works as an organization has on so many lives.

Harold D’Souza’s journey from a survivor of labor trafficking to a globally recognized thriver is a testament to the power of resilience, hope, and determination. Through events like these, his message continues to echo worldwide, inspiring individuals and institutions alike to join the fight against human trafficking and support survivors on their path to healing and empowerment.