Photo Credit: GEMS Website
Name: Rachel Lloyd
Occupation: Executive Director and Founder of Girls Educational and Mentoring Services (GEMS)
Why she is inspiring: Ms. Lloyd founded GEMS as a support group for young girls who are affected or involved in commercial sexual exploitation and domestic trafficking after surviving her own youth as a sexually exploited teen. After escaping she went on to receive her bachelor's degree as well as her masters in applied urban anthropology. Her group strives to function as a safety net for these girls, as well as to work for legislation that will help and protect them. I think the most profound element of Ms.Lloyd's work (and company) is her interest not only in helping youth escape exploitation, but also in helping them realize their potential in other ways. GEMS focuses on the idea that every survivor has a story to tell, and a right to be heard. The implementation of this concept is more widespread than just this single cause. Ms. Lloyd herself acts as a prime example that awful experiences can be turned into productive feedback and networks in the community. Hopefully her work will travel nationally. Cheers to you Ms. Lloyd!For more information on GEMS please visit their website: www.gems-girls.org
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