Ruby* works as an Aftercare Case Facilitator (ACF) with Justice and Care in Bangladesh. She helps survivors of modern slavery on their journeys of recovery, challenging stigma and raising awareness in her community – and also runs her own salon.

But Ruby didn’t always have the confidence to do these things. As a survivor of sexual exploitation herself, she has faced trauma and struggled with self-doubt. In this powerful first-person account, Ruby describes how one moment – stopping a child marriage – became the turning point that gave her the courage to lead.

Through our Her Voice campaign, every donation you make will be doubled. Your gift could help us to support more survivors like Ruby to become leaders in the anti-slavery fight.

There was a time when I would tremble even while speaking to ordinary people, let alone stakeholders. I lacked confidence, and every interaction felt intimidating.

But in 2022, my life took a turn. I was elected as the General Secretary of the Joyjatra Forum – a group that unites survivors support one another, speak out, and shape change. I was chosen by the votes of my peers who had often been marginalised by society like me. Their trust in me was a responsibility – I had to act, not just for them, but for the community.

Shortly after, I learned about a child marriage in Khulna. At first, I had no idea how to handle it. Fear and uncertainty overwhelmed me, until I remembered the guidance of my case manager and reached out for advice. Following her guidance, I contacted Deputy Director of the Women’s Department in Jessore, providing full details of the case. He then connected me with Deputy Director in Khulna, and the local Officer in Charge.

Through their support, I was able to get the police to the scene around 3am, stopping the marriage at that moment. I realised that courage and persistence can create real change. From that day on, I gained the confidence to face any stakeholder, speak up for justice, and act decisively.

I was later saddened to hear that the marriage eventually took place, when it was agreed by the teenager’s parents and legal administration. But still, this experience transformed me.

My network and influence grew steadily. When I informed Deputy Director in Khulna about survivors in need of training, he arranged beautification training for them without even knowing their details. Later, when I became an Aftercare Case Facilitator (ACF), she even attended a stakeholder meeting at my request. These moments taught me that courage, persistence, and meaningful connections can turn challenges into opportunities.

Since joining as an ACF, my place in society has changed drastically. People now seek my advice and guidance. I have become a pillar of support for my parents, daughter and a trusted voice in my community. When someone attempted to seize our land unjustly, I directly contacted the Upazilla Nirbahi Officer (UNO) and successfully protected it. This advocacy inspired trust, and people now turn to me for guidance on a wide range of issues.

This job has empowered me beyond measure. Nothing is done in my family without my opinion. I am financially independent and able to care for my parents and daughter freely. I can take decisive action, provide support, and live with dignity and autonomy.

To me, this job is like a golden deer that fulfils my dreams – a symbol of courage, resilience, and the power to raise one’s voice. It is not just a position; it is a journey of transformation. I am proud of how far I have come and determined to continue making a difference in the lives of others.

In Bangladesh, half of all girls are still married before the age of 18, making it the highest rate in Asia, according to the United Nations Population Fund. Despite legal restrictions, child marriage persists due to poverty, gender inequality, and harmful social norms. Families often see early marriage as a way to reduce financial burden or protect girls’ reputations. But the consequences are severe: it cuts girls’ education short, increases health risks from early pregnancy, and traps them in cycles of poverty and abuse.

Women and girls are disproportionately affected by modern slavery and gender-based violence. Every day, traffickers steal their freedom and use fear to silence them.  At Justice & Care, we work in the UK and Bangladesh supporting survivors to walk free, rebuild their lives and pursue justice. We stand shoulder-to–shoulder with them to fight for systemic change and to build a world in which modern slavery is a thing of the past. 

Her Voice is her power. Her Voice is our call to act. Will you stand with her this Autumn? Donate now and your gift will be doubled.

*name changed to protect identity