From Krysta Bisnauth, Freedom United 

At a time when hard-fought progress feels at risk, standing together matters more than ever.

This Human Trafficking Prevention Month, we’re recognizing the extraordinary individuals and organizations driving real change in the fight against modern slavery—despite the obstacles. Their work challenges systemic injustices and keeps hope alive in uncertain times.

Please join us in celebrating and applauding the winners of the 2024 For Freedom Awards and showing them the support they deserve!

DIGITAL ACTIVISTS OF THE YEAR AWARD

The Digital Activists of the Year Award goes to Shahin and Jahangir Gavanji, Iranian human rights activists who launched the 100 Women and 100 Dreams Project. Through this initiative, they share the powerful stories of 100 women who were married off as children, bringing global attention to the issue of forced child marriage.

CAMPAIGN OF THE YEAR AWARD

The Campaign of the Year Award is awarded to Anti-Slavery International, who successfully championed the passage of the E.U. Forced Labour Regulation. This groundbreaking law makes it illegal for businesses operating in the E.U. to import goods produced using forced labor.

STORYTELLING FOR FREEDOM AWARD

The Storytelling for Freedom Award goes to Mech Dara, a fearless journalist in Cambodia who has reported courageously on human trafficking and cyber scam rings despite facing arrest and the shutdown of his affiliated publications.

RISING CHANGEMAKER AWARD

The Rising Changemaker Award is awarded to Uyghur Youth Initiative, a youth-driven nonprofit raising awareness of Uyghur forced labor and amplifying the voices of the Uyghur community in the fight for justice and accountability.

We’d like to give a special mention to the runners up: Tony Dunkerley, Unchained At Last, Lisa Kristine and Maisie Bruner and Kaixuan Guo! Every nominee in this year’s awards deserves our applause for theirunwavering commitment to ending modern slavery and securing meaningful change. If you would like to nominate an exceptional organization for next year’s awards, let us know! Thank you for your continued support and advocacy.

In solidarity,Krysta and the team that supports the Freedom United community