Aashika Damodar

Gründerin und Director von Survivors Connect, Fair Oaks, CA

www.survivorsconnect.orgAashika Damodar
 

1. Aashika, in your own personal opinion what is the difference between the Artists for Freedom (AFF) project and other projects concerned with global human trafficking and human rights?

Over the past two decades, we have seen a mass proliferation of organizations working on human trafficking and modern-day slavery. It has become a great issue of urgency for non profits, governments, businesses and other multinational entities. Despite the significant increase in involvement on the issue, the anti-trafficking movement still faces the critical challenge of raising awareness. There are still many people who are not aware, or have limited surface-level information about human trafficking. AFF is different than many of organizations working on trafficking, in that they are using the creative energies, talents and expertise of the artistic community to raise awareness, and engaging non-traditional actors in the effort.

2. Is there anything about the Artists for Freedom (AFF) that you feel is unique or different?

As mentioned before, AFF is unique because they are using different forms of art and media to build an awareness movement against slavery. Art, film, poetry and other forms of artistic media reach people on a very spirtual level. Human trafficking is often a very difficult and depressing issue to talk about. Rather than focusing on the deep and dark of trafficking, AFF is using art to bring a positive spin, in effort to exemplify the hope, energy and spirit needed to bring this issue to an end.

3. What do you think is the biggest challenge for Artists for Freedom (AFF) at this time?

Once you have raised awareness, it is important that you find ways for people to get involved. Finding proper channels, both small and large for your newly-recruited supporters will be the biggest challenge. Human trafficking is a topic that is pretty easy to become passionate about so you want to make sure that you have something in mind for your supporters. Consider all the groups/resources available in any given town where you have an awareness event. Create a list and offer it to your supporters.

And now two personal questions from me to you, Aashika.

4. What was the most difficult challenge that you had to master in your life?

Managing my graduate degree, part time work and running my non profit organization, Survivors Connect!

5. What in your life are you really proud of?

I am proud of my family for how far they have come over the past 20 years. Both my parents are immigrants to the US from India. Growing up, we struggled financially and lived a difficult life. Through a lot of hard work and scrupulous saving, our family now owns a home, have put myself and my brother through college and are living the "American' dream.

Thank you, Aashika! You do a fantastic work with survivors connect. It's a honour for AFF to work together with you!