{"id":36938,"date":"2024-03-29T07:00:40","date_gmt":"2024-03-29T01:30:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.globalindian.com\/youth\/\/?post_type=story&p=36938"},"modified":"2025-01-31T15:17:47","modified_gmt":"2025-01-31T09:47:47","slug":"rohan-dsouza-the-25-year-old-advocate-against-human-trafficking","status":"publish","type":"story","link":"https:\/\/old.globalindian.com\/youth\/story\/cover-story\/rohan-dsouza-the-25-year-old-advocate-against-human-trafficking\/","title":{"rendered":"Rohan D\u2019Souza: The 25-year-old advocate against human trafficking"},"content":{"rendered":"

(March 29, 2024) <\/strong>Whether giving a presentation at the 2024 Global Sustainability Network (GSN) conference in Dubai or speaking as the guest of honour at the Human Trafficking Symposium in Toronto, Rohan D\u2019Souza has been diligently advancing the legacy of Eyes Open International. He also recently represented the non-profit at a collaborative project meeting in London.<\/span><\/p>\n

The Chicago-based youngster was only four years old when he moved to the US with his parents, Harold D\u2019Souza and Darcy D\u2019Souza, along with his brother. Tragically, the family fell victim to human trafficking. Emerging from years of ordeal, his parents established Eyes Open International to aid others facing similar circumstances or at risk of falling prey to human traffickers in the future. Now, as the organisation’s youngest board member, Rohan is continuing their mission.<\/span><\/p>\n

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In addition to his work for the non-profit, he is a budding entrepreneur nurturing two startups. As a sports enthusiast, he has also worked as a professional tennis coach in the past.<\/span><\/p>\n

Empathy, gratitude and advocacy from lived experiences<\/b><\/h4>\n

Growing up in such a family, Rohan witnessed the challenges his parents faced firsthand. \u201cI wasn’t a direct victim of trafficking, but the lack of understanding about my family’s story affected me emotionally and psychologically,\u201d Rohan shares with <\/span>Global Indian<\/span><\/i><\/a>. He officially joined Eyes Open International last year. \u201cAs its youngest board member, I serve on the finance and fundraising committee and act as an ambassador for the initiative, engaging in public speaking to advance the organisation’s mission,\u201d the 25-year-old adds.<\/span><\/p>\n

His lived experiences as the son of labour trafficking and debt bondage survivors provide him with first-hand knowledge and insight to champion this significant cause. \u201cFrom my parents, I have learned the importance of gratitude, resilience, and empathy. These lessons have been fundamental in my life, teaching me to appreciate what I have, overcome challenges, and empathise with the struggles of others,\u201d he remarks.<\/span><\/p>\n

Also Read<\/strong> | Fight against Modern Slavery: How Harold D\u2019Souza brought the derailed American Dream on track<\/strong><\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Purpose-driven outlook<\/b><\/h4>\n

Eyes Open International is dedicated to preventing, educating, protecting, and empowering societies globally to combat human trafficking. Rohan\u2019s commitment to this critical issue comes naturally. His experiences have shaped his belief that \u2018meaningful and transformative changes often arise from turning personal struggles into a purpose\u2019. \u201cAlthough I officially joined Eyes Open International last year, I had a hand in naming the organisation when it was just an idea,\u201d he shares.<\/span><\/p>\n

After joining the organisation, he began with collaborative sessions in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 8 \u2013 eradicating modern slavery and ensuring decent work for all. Since then, he has evolved into an independent speaker, sharing the stage with eminent figures and speaking out with great conviction on behalf of young victims.<\/span><\/p>\n

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