April 2024

April 2024

2024: A Year of Elections Worldwide

A year wherein over 49% of the world's population would be watching and listening to people speak about their vision for society, security, commerce, industry, education and health among other issues.

A time of confusion, noise, and rhetoric.

A time for change - a time of mindsets being challenged.

Life is so much like that - we live with what we know and stay in that comfortable place.

2020 was a defining year for us all as we grappled with the unknown in real time.

It was also the year we, at International Sanctuary, decided to go ahead and establish a place in Cebu, The Philippines, wherein women survivors of trafficking could get a second chance at building a life of worth and dignity.

We opened our doors in April 2021 with 5 participants - and we complete 3 years this month with 14 participants earnestly working towards a hope and future.

From being in a place of control and fear, they are moving towards taking charge of their lives, choosing to grow their capacity through education and interpersonal skills.

From a place of debt - they are saving towards specific educational, residential and family goals.

From a place of uncertainty - they are making informed choices as the way ahead.

It seems so logical from this side of the fence - but for each participant it is a leap of faith to move from knowing their surroundings to a place of not knowing what would happen - would they make it?

So we celebrate their ‘small step’ - their trusting us as we facilitate their growth.

We thank you - our donors, volunteers, buyers of jewellery, well-wishers - for believing in our mission and trusting us to do whatever it takes for each participant’s success.

Change is scary but in the Sanctuary I learned to face my fear and handle my emotions.

Rica (a participant from Cebu, The Philippines)