Research-driven advocacy by survivors for policymakers
Finding Our Voices
A qualitative study of human sex trafficking survivors’ from entrance to exit for Justice Canada
Voice Found
Context
Voice Found, an Ottawa-based charity, supports individuals at risk of or who have experienced sex trafficking. I conducted a qualitative study for them, exploring the experiences of 22 survivors from the time they were trafficked to their lives after exiting.
This research was funded by Justice Canada to better understand why people enter the sex trade and their reasons for staying or leaving. While Voice Found received this funding, it’s important to note that human sex trafficking and sex work are distinct. My role was to honor and amplify the survivors’ lived experiences, emphasizing their unique journeys within the broader context of sex work.
At a glance
Key Insights
Finding Our Voices: Lived experiences in human trafficking is available on the Government of Canada website.
Challenge
How can we provide accurate, safe, and meaningful qualitative data to policymakers about sex trafficking survivors while honoring their voices and protecting their safety?
Survivors’ experiences are often misrepresented or overlooked in policy.
Clear distinction needed between sex trafficking and sex work.
Process
Conducted thematic analysis of survivor testimonies, organizing findings into a chronological narrative to reveal patterns.
Collaborated with Voice Found and Justice Canada to align on ethical research.
Designed the report to be accessible, jargon-free, and trauma-informed.
Ensured survivors’ voices remained central and respected.
Solution
Crafted a compassionate, coherent narrative that balanced:
Survivor-led insights around education as prevention.
Justice Canada’s objectives to understand sex work dynamics.
Voice Found’s mission to support trafficking survivors.
Result: A clear, respectful, and policy-relevant report.
Impact
Informed policy with survivor-centered qualitative data.
Strengthened trust between survivors, advocates, and policymakers.
Set a model for ethical, accessible, and survivor-led research in social systems design.
Impact
“These are the voices that need to be heard and while some progress has been made, we still have a long way to go. I am hopeful that this research will aid many as they look at the issue, make decisions on how to best support the successful exit of those who've been trafficked, and help them to move forward with their lives.”
- Cynthia Bland, Founder & CEO Voice Found
