My Choices Foundation

Safe Village Program sparks courage: Vaishnavi's brave attempt to outsmart a trafficker

The Safe Village Program was conducted by the Implementing Partner of My Choices Foundation at Vaishanvi's school in the village of Idalhonda, Karnataka. The session covered important topics such as how traffickers operate, the dangers of accepting help from strangers, and most importantly, how to act swiftly and bravely in threatening situations.

A few days after the session, Vaishnavi was on her way home from school when a man on a motorcycle approached her. He offered her a ride to drop her at home. Tired and eager to get home early, she hesitated but accepted. However, as the ride progressed, the man changed his behaviour. He claimed to be a police officer and said he needed to complete some work before dropping her off. Sensing something was off, Vaishnavi politely asked to get down. But instead of stopping, he increased the speed and diverted from the usual route.

That was when Vaishnavi's life-saving knowledge from the Safe Village Program kicked in. She began shouting loudly and shaking violently on the moving bike, drawing attention from nearby villagers. Her brave and immediate reaction startled the man. He stopped the bike, let her off and quickly fled the scene.

Because of the Safe Village Program, Vaishnavi avoided a potentially tragic fate. She shared,

“Only because of the Safe Village Program, I understood what was happening. I knew what to do. Thank you to My Choices Foundation for this life-saving knowledge.”

Vaishnavi’s story is a shining example of how awareness and education can protect young girls, especially in vulnerable communities who are at high risk of being trafficked. This incident not only saved one child but also sent a powerful message across the village - knowledge is power, and awareness protects young girls.

As we reflect on stories like Vaishnavi’s, we are reminded that change begins with awareness and courage is contagious.

Courage from you, our Implementing Partner, and courage from every child, parent, and teacher who engages with the Safe Village Program - each of you is a powerful catalyst for that change.

Let us continue walking this path together - reaching one child, one family and one village at a time.

Thank you for being the heart of the Safe Village Program.

*Photo has been used for representational purpose only.

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