This new non-profit organization fully aligns with the direction set by the Samilia Foundation, whose main activity aims to alert institutional authorities and the general public about the emergence of phenomena related to human trafficking in many countries. In particular, it focuses on developing upstream prevention actions against all forms of exploitation resulting from it (sexual exploitation, economic exploitation through forced labor, child labor exploitation, exploitation in sports, etc.).

“During a recent trip to Switzerland, we met Robin, an incredible young woman who runs a shelter for survivors of sexual exploitation, most of whom were subjected to it from adolescence in Mumbai, India.

These women created a theatre play entitled ‘Lal Batti Express’, in which they portray their own lives and emotions, illustrating the multiple trials they have faced and their journey toward resilience.

They travel the world spreading their message of hope through this play and have honored us by stopping in Belgium to share this unique moment with us,” explains Sophie Jekeler, President of the new Samilia ASBL.

Kranti (which means “revolution” in Hindi) is an Indian NGO that empowers these young women, formerly victims of human trafficking, to become social change agents in high-risk areas of Mumbai, for their children and communities.

The UNODC (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime), also active in the fight against human trafficking, has offered its support to Samilia ASBL in implementing this humanitarian-oriented performance in Brussels.

On the evening of the performance, Ozark Henri, Goodwill Ambassador for Belgium against Human Trafficking, will be present to support this important cause.

The show will take place on Tuesday, July 30, 2019, at La Tricoterie, an engaged socio-cultural cooperative that immediately opened its doors to the initiative presented by Samilia ASBL to host the event.

After the performance, the Samilia team and the young women from Kranti will go to Brussels’ Grand Place, which will be illuminated in blue from 10:30 PM in support of the UNODC’s “Blue Heart” campaign to raise awareness about human trafficking and its impact on society.