CEO  at Marcela Loaiza foundation,inc

United States

Marcela Loaiza is a Colombian woman who was a victim of trafficking in persons and was sexually exploited for 18 months in Japan. After dangerously escaping from the notorious mafia network Yakuza, she arrived back in Colombia only to find a world without opportunity and no help from the Colombian government. Feeling desperate, she felt like the only path for her to take was to resort to prostitution. Tired of living a life not meant for her, she found refuge in the world of literature, and managed to gradually heal the pain caused by the horrendous experience of being a trafficking victim by writing two books, “Atrapada por la Mafia Yakuza”, and “Lo que fui y lo que soy” published by Planeta in Colombia. It is at this time, when she discovers that through writing, sharing her testimony, and putting her face out in public, she can assist her community by bringing out awareness on trafficking in persons. In December 2011, she formalizes her philanthropic work, and accomplishes her dream of creating a foundation, known as Fundación Marcela Loaiza. The organization's main goal is to work on awareness and prevention of trafficking in persons with children, teenagers and adults. Marcela also formed an alliance with the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to bring about awareness through her testimonial to the community. The Foundation also helps victims heal and reintegrate back into society by becoming the voices that spread the message of what trafficking in persons is really about. The Foundation will also offer care and support for survivors of trafficking, to help them overcome their personal and psychological problems, and gain access to the job market. Marcela created the Foundation so all survivors of trafficking can try to rebuild their dreams and recover their dignity the same way she did.