In 8th grade, I told my school counselor that I hoped to work with the International Justice Mission one day. After hearing about the organization through my church, I was drawn to its commitment to pursuing justice for the world’s most vulnerable populations. This early sense of calling has shaped my academic and professional path, and now comes full circle as I have recently accepted an opportunity to serve as the Capacity Development Fellow with the IJM team in Manila, Philippines.

Following my Bachelor’s degree in International Studies from Point Loma Nazarene University, I pursued a Master’s in Peace and Justice at the University of San Diego. Throughout my graduate studies, I specialized in a human rights-based approach, with a focus on immigration, human trafficking, and gender-based violence. My final thesis, which earned my cohort’s Best Portfolio Award, examined strategies for mitigating systemic violence. This research, alongside my experience in program evaluation, human rights monitoring, and grant writing, provided me with foundational tools for supporting mission-driven organizations like IJM.

IJM works to end modern-day slavery, human trafficking, and violence against people living in poverty. Through partnerships with government agencies and community organizations, IJM seeks to create sustainable, systemic change. After 6 years of higher education, I am excited to align myself with this mission by being on the ground, helping to end these acts of violence.

About half a million Filipino children were trafficked to produce new child sexual exploitation material in 2022, according to IJM data. This number should be staggering to us all, and I am passionate about being part of the solution.

To make this year of service possible, I launched a fundraiser through Pure Charity to help cover deployment and living expenses during my fellowship. My goal is $26,000, which will support me from orientation in June 2026 through the completion of my fellowship in May 2027.

Because this is an unpaid position, every contribution makes a meaningful difference and enables me to be fully present throughout the year. I would be honored to have your support, whether it is through financial giving, sharing this opportunity with others, or keeping me in your prayers as I begin this new chapter.

If you’d like to stay updated on my time in Manila, please fill out this form: Email Updates from Sara.