Survivor Leadership Council: One year of hope, from vision to action

One year ago, a vision became a reality. We envisioned a world where survivors of modern slavery aren’t just helped and pitied, or used in a tokenistic way, but are change-makers and equal, ethical partners. This vision is the Hope for Justice Survivor Leadership Council, and today, we’re celebrating its first anniversary.

For too long, the narrative around modern slavery has been told without the authentic inclusion of those who have lived through it. We saw a need for a formal, global platform where survivors could use their lived experience not just to inform, but to lead. That is why, together with Hope for Justice, we established this council.

Our purpose is simple yet vital: to ensure that the voices of survivors are at the heart of every decision, policy, and programme aimed at combating human trafficking. We serve as a vital link, a bridge between the frontline realities of recovery and support and the strategic direction of an organization working to end exploitation.

Over the past 12 months, we have worked to create plans and goals and have begun advising on key initiatives. We’ve had honest, powerful conversations that have already begun to help shape Hope for Justice’s work, making it more effective, compassionate, and survivor-informed than ever before. This council is built on the strength of its members, each a powerful advocate from a different part of the world, bringing a unique perspective to our shared goal.

In our first year, we’ve accomplished so much. We have:

Looking back on our first year, we are filled with a sense of pride and hope. We have proven that our voices aren’t just a nice addition, they are essential. The work ahead is immense, but with the combined wisdom, passion, and resilience of our members, we have no doubt that we will continue to drive meaningful change.

We have many ideas for the future, including expanding the council to eight members with representatives from Ethiopia and other countries where Hope for Justice works. The Hope for Justice team has given us a platform and everyone has been incredibly supportive. We feel heard and have grown in confidence, sharing our ideas and advice and watching them be implemented. Knowing we are not just a tick-the-box initiative is an incredible feeling.

Here’s to a year of progress and partnership, and many more to come!

The council’s strength lies in the diverse experiences and passions of its members:

Jane Lasonder, UK
Chair, Hope for Justice Survivor Leadership Council

I am honoured to serve as the Chair of this incredible council. My personal journey has given me a passion for advocacy, particularly in raising awareness among healthcare professionals, law enforcement, and first responders. Being a part of this council allows me to use my experience and expertise to ensure that those who encounter survivors are equipped with the understanding and tools to help, not harm. I’m also the vice chair of the ISTAC (International Survivors of Trafficking Advisory Council) with ODIHR-OSCE and a member of the MSPEC (Modern Slavery Policy and Evidence Centre) advisory council at Oxford University. I’m also an author and international speaker, speaking at events for the UN, Council of Europe, and others.

I’ve also had the opportunity to take on some personal projects with Hope for Justice, including working on the IMSA (Independent Modern Slavery Advocates) project and speaking at an IMSA event. The IMSA project is a collaboration that is testing and promoting across the sector in the UK a best-practice model of independent advocacy for survivors of human trafficking that is independent and accredited. I also recently filmed a segment at the Old Bailey for the new ‘Justice for All’ series of London conferences, and I have been asked to speak at the event in March 2026

Ronny Marty, USA
Independent Consultant, Hope for Justice Survivor Leadership Council

I proudly serve as a member of the Hope for Justice Survivor Leadership Council, where I work alongside other survivor great leaders to strengthen responses to human trafficking and ensure survivor voices help shape solutions. As a survivor of trafficking myself and a subject matter expert with lived experience, I use my lived experience and professional expertise to raise awareness, train frontline professionals, empower survivors and advocate for systemic change.

The Survivor Leadership Council has worked closely with Hope for Justice to influence strategy, policy, and training during our first year. Together, we are setting a standard for survivor inclusion that strengthens the organization’s impact worldwide. This work demonstrates the value of collaboration and the future potential of survivor leadership within Hope for Justice and the dedicated support from Hope for Justice, which continues to inspire and strengthen our efforts.

Previously, I served as a member of the International Survivors of Trafficking Advisory Council (ISTAC) with ODIHR-OSCE. On the United States Advisory Council on Human Trafficking, I was appointed by President Barack Obama and reappointed by President Donald Trump, and I am also working with government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector to continue to focus on building a survivor-informed movement to combat all forms of human trafficking.

In addition to advocacy, I am the Owner and CEO of Marty Professional Cleaning Services Inc. & Booking Services, while continuing to provide training and consultation to law enforcement, TSA, corporate stakeholders, NGOs, and survivor communities across the country.

Emily, Uganda
Hope for Justice Consultant & Survivor Leadership Council Member

As a proud member of the Survivor Leadership Council, I am privileged to serve in a role that allows me to advocate, advise, guide, and co-create strategic initiatives. Through collaboration, lived experience, and a shared purpose, I strive to contribute meaningfully to survivor-centered programming, policy development, and transformative efforts that pave the way for a life free from slavery and human trafficking. I currently serve as a patron of Inua Local Foundation and a member of Survivors Alliance, where I contribute to advocacy and community-driven initiatives. I also work as an Economic Empowerment Coordinator for East Africa, focusing on sustainable development and survivor-led transformation. In addition, I am an entrepreneur coach, passionate about equipping individuals, especially youth and survivors, with the tools and mindset to build resilient, purpose-driven enterprises.

This year, I had the privilege of visiting Tuda Lighthouse in Uganda to gain deeper insight into the incredible work being done by Hope for Justice. What stood out most was the remarkable dedication and teamwork of the staff, each person playing a vital role in creating a space where healing and transformation are not just possible, but actively nurtured.

Patrick Proctor
Hope for Justice Head of Programmes

I am the liaison person between the Council and the wider Hope for Justice organisation, and it is my privilege to work alongside these passionate professionals who bring a combination of lived and learned experience that is truly invaluable. I try my best to facilitate and empower, clearing obstacles and opening doors so the Council can do its work in the most effective ways possible.