“Activism works. So what I am telling you to do now, is to act. Because no one is too small to make a difference.”
– Greta Thunberg
Not all heroes wear capes. They don’t need to, their actions speak for themselves. The Hero’s Journey concept in coaching celebrates ordinary individuals doing extraordinary things despite the trials and tribulations they face. Our guest this week showed us how even one individual voice and consistent actions make a difference in the grand scheme of things.
In this week’s webinar, Anu George Canjanathoppil, who works with a prominent international organization, talked about the horrors of slavery and how rampant it is. Anu actively works for the rescue and rehabilitation of individuals trapped in slavery and bringing criminals to justice. Under Anu’s leadership, 10,000 individuals have been rescued from forced labor slavery.
Hope Endures
Did you know that over 15 million men, women, and children are trapped in modern-day slavery around the world? In fact, this number increased after the world returned to normalcy post the pandemic. Even though the statistics paint a grim picture, Anu’s unwavering belief in hope and her unyielding spirit came as a relief. Opening up about what keeps her going during bleak times, Anu spoke about how once victims of slavery give others hope.
What makes Anu’s work even more effective and important is showing victims of slavery what hope means. Years of abuse and exploitation leave people disempowered. Apart from rescue and rehabilitation, Anu’s work ensures these individuals see what lies on the other side of crime and suffering.
As the webinar unfolded, I could deeply sense how coaching inherently embraces the essence of humanity. Coaching creates safe spaces for individuals to support them in moving forward and seeing hope during uncertainty.
Webinar Highlights
Here are some of the key themes that were explored during the webinar:
- The extensive and multi-layered efforts being made to free people from slavery
- The many challenges Anu has faced in rescuing people
- How common people can contribute to bringing slavery down
- Stories of survival and hope
My Takeaway
“Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it.”
– Helen Keller
The rampant instances of slavery and human rights violations don’t really lift up our spirits. However, knowing more about the consistent and systemic efforts to rescue and empower victims really came as a silver lining. I would encourage you to watch this webinar to know more about Anu’s work and how she’s making a difference. What are some stories of hope and survival you have come across? Tell us in the comments section below or feel free to share your thoughts with us on CoachNook.
At Coacharya, we believe in creating safe, inclusive spaces through coaching and fostering a community that embraces people regardless of their differences. If you’d like to know how coaching can support your needs, write to us at community@coacharya.com.
Webinar: Voice for the Vulnerable – Hero’s Journey Series
Like to listen instead? We have a podcast!
This session is also available as audio-only on our podcast. Listen below or find Coach to Lead wherever you listen to podcasts
