by Yasminda Dorrough
In the midst of a global pandemic, on a hot summer day in June, five survivors of the sex trade who have never met one another sit together, but six feet apart, in a large room. The walls in the room are yellow and bright, bringing a warmth to the space even though the AC blowing on the top of their heads and down the nape of their necks say different. There is soft jazz music playing the background that is suddenly interrupted by the instructor. She introduces herself and as she continues five sets of eager eyes stare back at her from over their face masks. Each with eyes that read differently—some with anticipation, some fear, some excitement—but all eyes read determination. Determination to fight for something more than the drama and trauma of yesterday, they sit courageously in this new space. For some this new space represents a new start in life and for others, this new space is an opportunity to take back control of their lives. Whatever their reason they are here, they are ready and they are determined to take steps in investing in their futures. “Welcome to the REST Academy”
Why the REST Academy?
Over the last three years, REST has assisted over 150 survivors to obtain employment but only 30% maintained employment for more than a year. We know that trafficking victims experience significant and lifelong consequences, including wage-theft, economic costs related to physical, sexual, and psychological abuse, and face diminished economic opportunity. In addition, traffickers often target individuals who have histories of previous trauma, limited education opportunities or family support, and/or social isolation, which creates economic vulnerabilities. The REST the Economic and Leadership Empowerment Academy aims to enhance knowledge, sharpen skills, and provide opportunities for individuals exiting the sex trade to achieve and maintain economic self-sufficiency and advancement.
What is the REST Academy?
The REST Academy was created to equip survivors with soft skills such as communication, emotional regulation, and self-awareness so that they can not only obtain but confidently maintain employment. The academy consists of four pillars: six-weeks of job readiness training, six-week paid internships, employment placement services, and leadership development classes. Participants are referred internally as well as by community partners and can engage in one pillar of the program or all four.
How is the REST Academy Going?
On September 4, we celebrated the first cohort of graduates from the Job Readiness Training group. Each of the graduates expressed gratitude for the opportunity and excitement for their next steps in life. One participant shared that she had previously completed a job training program for individuals coming out of the prison system. She found it helpful, but she felt like she could not be fully invested because she still felt like she had to hide a big part of her past—her experience in the sex trade. She was excited to enroll in the REST Economic and Leadership Empowerment Academy and for the opportunity for a paid internship. After the first workshop, she shared, "This class leaves me feeling good about myself, and like I'm doing positive things to better myself and life."
These participants, these survivors who had never met before, who weeks before sat quietly with fear and anxiety in their eyes now share the feelings of joy, accomplishment, and success as they each walk up to grab their certificate of completion each take their photos, and smile with eyes full of hope.