Protecting Human Rights: How These Inspiring Women are Leading the Way for Trafficking Awareness, Advocacy, and Rehabilitation Advancement
“The sex trafficking industry is a 150 billion dollar industry and ever growing. Our organization is dedicated to the empowerment of survivors of sexual trafficking through education and vocational training, and keeping our youth safe by promoting awareness of the issue. For $1600 or $6/day, we are able to provide the Empowerment Program to a survivor which will change her/his life forever.” Today’s women dreamers, Priya Gupta Israni, Lavina Datwani, and Urvashi Mishra are the leaders behind IHC For Her [soon to be known as TAARA], an organization dedicated to helping sex trafficking survivors. In this inspiring and eye-opening interview with Women Who Win, they share their journeys in getting involved in this cause, their vision for the organization, and more! We are honored to share this story!
1. Tell us your stories and what drew you to the work you do for human trafficking at IHC for her? How did you start working on this cause, and what have you learned in your work?
Priya: My name is Priya Gupta Israni and I am the president of IHC FOR HER, soon to be renamed TAARA.ORG. My story began with my younger brother who has cerebral palsy resulting from a medical mistake, this had a profound impact on me and how I viewed life in general, from the age of 5, I began to be sensitized to the experience of others, cultivating a deep sense of empathy for anyone who has suffered as a victim. This led to fostering within me a genuine desire to help, support and uplift those in need and driving me to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Covid-19 made the already growing crime against children and teens much worse. The horrendous details of this heinous crime against children and teens was reason enough to start working towards making a change and help save the vulnerable segment of society and also help those who were forced into the sex trafficking trade and are now rescued. The rescued young women and some of them are mothers at 14 years of age, they continue to be overlooked and marginalized. We work to empower them to becoming financially independent and create a new empowered narrative for themselves.
Lavina: My name is Lavina Datwani and I serve on the board of IHC FOR HER. IHC FOR HER was born during the Covid-19 pandemic because it became heartbreakingly apparent to the board of India Heritage Center (IHC) that when everything else shut down to minimize the spread of the virus, sexual trafficking, pornography and expolitation rose exponentially. After months of deliberation, the fully-volunteer team at IHC decided to pivot our mission from collecting, preserving and highlighting stories of the journey of Indian immigrants t0 the United States, to empowering survivors of sex trafficking. I was personally drawn to this cause after learning of the cruelty being endured by children younger than my own, 10-12 times a day, everyday. If they are fortunate enough to be rescued, most were taken/lured when they were so young that they don't have adequate skills to gain employment and become financially independent. Many return to a life of prostitution because that is their only means for survival, While there are several organizations which support education for underprivileged children, the survivors of sex trafficking are often overlooked. I wanted to be part of a movement to give them a second chance at life and the gift of choice.
Urvashi: My name is Urvashi Mishra, and as a proud member of the Board of Directors for IHC for HER, now TAARA. I embarked on a remarkable journey within the realm of combating human trafficking. This extraordinary path was set in motion by a life-altering encounter that left an indelible mark on my soul. Picture this: I crossed paths with an awe-inspiring colleague who had once been trapped in the dark depths of trafficking in India. But here's the twist—it's a story of sheer triumph and unwavering resilience. Against all odds, she shattered the chains that bound her, defying the shadows to rebuild her life into something truly extraordinary. It was in that transformative moment that I became fervently committed to the belief that every girl, without exception, deserves a chance at a life filled with hope, love, and endless possibilities. As a mother of two teenage girls, I am deeply invested in safeguarding their well-being and promoting self-defense. This personal connection further fuels my determination to protect and empower survivors of trafficking. Wholeheartedly embracing my role on the Board of Directors, I am dedicated to magnifying our impact at TAARA. Together, with our tenacious team, we are on a mission to dismantle the very foundations of exploitation, weaving a tapestry of hope, resilience, and a future where every story ends with triumph and the sweet taste of freedom.
2. Tell us more about your non-profit, IHC for her (www.ihcforher.org), it's mission, impact and reach. How do you help the, mostly women and children, victims and raise awareness to prevent others from becoming victims?
Priya: IHC FOR HER is dedicated to the empowerment of survivors of sexual trafficking through education and vocational training, and keeping our youth safe by promoting awareness of the issue. IHC FOR HER will soon be known as TAARA (Trafficking Awareness, Advocacy and Rehabilitation Advancement). The sex trafficking industry is a 150 billion dollar industry and ever growing. It’s a terrifying realization that it can potentially impact any and all parents regardless of their geographical location. It’s a global issue and the access to our children via social media has greatly exacerbated this problem. Sex trafficking is taking place in every single state of the United States. At-risk people come from all walks of life, irrespective of age, gender, ethnicity, immigration or socio-economic statuses. Because we discovered that it isn't just girls who are vulnerable...so many boys and members of the LGBTQ community were being trafficked, we decided to rebrand ourselves to take on a gender-neutral, global identity. Predators go where our children go, so it is no surprise that there are many lurking on social media sites with access to our unknowing children. It is of paramount importance that we inform our youth on the dangers lurking on these platforms and what resources are available to them if they should need help. TAARA will continue to host awareness initiatives at local high schools and self-defense technique training to keep our youth safe through our R.A.I.S.E. (Real Action Inspiring Self Empowerment) program. We are also working with Covenant House NJ to provide spoken English lessons and job placement for survivors here. Our goal is to eventually end trafficking. To that end, TAARA is connecting with changemakers in the local, state and federal levels to advocate for legislation to better protect the victims and prosecute the traffickers. In India, our first batch of 78 survivors from shelter homes in Boisar and Delhi and a center in West Bengal, graduated from our Empowerment Program in May 2023. The survivors enrolled were taught basic literacy and numeracy skills along with financial and computer literacy (Excel, Word, etc.). Once the foundational course was completed, based on their aptitude and desire, they took on a vocational course of their choosing. Some graduates chose to pursue positions such as sales clerk, secretary, tailor, entrepreneur, etc. Almost all have been employed with the few remaining to secure employment imminently. We are so proud of their resilience, ambition, and determination to build a brighter future. TAARA continues to follow their journey and provide financial assistance until they are truly financially independent. If they chose to open a small business, we provided them with the seed money for the endeavor. TAARA's efforts are supported by generous donors. For $1600 or $6/day, we are able to provide the Empowerment Program to a survivor which will change her/his life forever.
3. Tell us more about your individual roles at IHC for her and how the organization has grown and how others can get involved with IHC for her? As Vice President of IHC FOR HER/TAARA.
Priya: My role as a president involved program development, advocacy, strategic alliances and networking. We are a team of volunteers While my designation is of a president, I am a team member along with all my team members and each and every member’s role and responsibilities overlap and all our achievements are equally shared by all. Anyone who is able to lend their skills and time is welcomed to email us at info@taara.org. We would love the support from everyone. This is a growing issue and the more people that help and support the more powerful our fight against trafficking becomes.
Urvashi: As a member of the board of directors at TAARA/TAARA, my role encompasses overseeing both the Empowerment and Awareness programs. I work closely with our dedicated team to ensure the smooth functioning of these initiatives. In addition, I utilize my expertise as a wedding planner to assist in organizing galas and charity events, always striving to secure the best deals to maximize the impact of every dollar towards our cause. At TAARA/TAARA, we have experienced significant growth and expansion. Currently, we are actively seeking to host outreach events in numerous high schools across the tri-state area, as well as community centers, town halls, and religious establishments. The purpose of these events is to educate the broader community about the warning signs of trafficking and how to safeguard themselves and others. We are looking for volunteers to assist during these events and help spread the word about our cause. If you are passionate about making a difference and possess skills or time to contribute, we warmly welcome you to get involved with TAARA. Please reach out to us by emailing info@taara.org, as we would be delighted to hear from you and explore how your unique abilities can support our mission.
Lavina: I assist our President, Priya Israni to oversee both the Empowerment and Awareness programs. I also join her to engage with anyone who can help us to further our mission, ranging from lawmakers, journalists, survivors, physicians, organizations pursuing a similar mission, and potential donors. While we are expanding our team, the core team of nine people wear many hats. We realize that the problem is so large but so is the scope of solutions. We are looking to host outreach events at many more high schools in the tri-state area, community centers/town halls, religious establishments, etc. to educate the community-at-large for signs that they should be aware of to safeguard themselves or others and who to report to if they or someone they know has fallen victim to a predator. TAARA needs volunteers who can make key connections to these facilities to host the outreach events. We also need volunteers to help at the event and spread the word of our cause. Anyone who is able to lend their skills and time is welcomed to email us at info@taara.org.
4. You follow other interests / passions as well. What other roles / jobs are you involved with?
Priya: I am a psychologist by training, an artist by passion along with my most important role of being a mom of 2 beautiful kids. I love to learn and I absolutely love the privilege of being able to help change the world even in a small way.
Lavina: I have always been grateful to have the opportunity to stay at home to raise my family. While it's an incredibly challenging job, now that I am an empty-nester, I wouldn't have traded those days for anything in the world. I am a pharmacist but have not practiced since having my children. Throughout my life, I have sought out causes which resonated with me and made sure to instill the same values in my children. I believe our world will be a better place for us all if everyone gives back in any capacity they like. Personally, I am drawn to causes which help children, whether it is to provide nourishment, education, or protection from abuse. I love to dance and I'm a real foodie. I love to cook and you will often find me scrolling through yet another spicy or cheesy recipe on my social media feed that I just absolutely have to try making tomorrow.
Urvashi: Aside from my involvement with TAARA, I am a wedding planner with over a decade of experience in the industry. Planning weddings is both challenging and fulfilling, allowing me to witness the joy and celebration of love firsthand. However, my commitment extends beyond the wedding world. In addition to being a wedding planner, I hold the role of Managing Director at Home Instead Senior Care, a senior care facility. It is a privilege to contribute to the well-being and care of our seniors, ensuring they receive the support and assistance they deserve. I firmly believe that giving back in any capacity can make our world a better place for everyone. For me, this often involves supporting causes that benefit children, such as providing nourishment, education, and protection from abuse. Beyond my professional and philanthropic endeavors, I have a passion for reading and crocheting. In fact, I aspire to become a happy member of a crochet club someday, where I can indulge in this creative pursuit and connect with like-minded individuals. In line with my dedication to the wedding industry, I also manage a wedding website called Radz Events Weddings. This platform aims to make every wedding a perfect and memorable experience, offering valuable resources and guidance to couples on their special day. In summary, I am involved in multiple roles and pursuits that allow me to make a positive impact and find fulfillment in various aspects of life. Whether it's through wedding planning, senior care, philanthropy, or personal hobbies, I strive to contribute to the betterment of others and create moments of happiness and joy.