Posted by Noelle Min
on September 29, 2026
Starfish Project’s mission is to offer safe, dignified, ethical work and a holistic care program to women who have experienced exploitation and human trafficking in Asia.
The stories of hope, freedom and new beginnings that the women at Starfish Project have experienced and shared exemplify the resilience, strength, and beauty of their work and journeys at Starfish Project and beyond.
Many of the brave women who join our team have escaped lives of exploitation and face the reality of starting over. Many left home between the ages of 12 and 15, missing years of education and opportunity. Yet, when they walk through our doors, they bring determination, courage, and a spark of hope for a new beginning. That’s where your support makes all the difference.
Their Stories
Bay recounts her first step toward new beginnings.
“It was a scary decision to leave our old lives behind, but the trust we had built with the outreach team made it easier. We both loved coming to work every day! Starfish Project was the first job I had that I felt I could tell people where I worked without shame.”
Bay is pursuing entrepreneurship, setting up a business with her husband, while her sister is studying English with her daughter. Bay and her sister, Ling, graduated from Starfish Project’s vocational training program, taking classes in English, computer literacy, and math.
Mae Lee takes many of the product and model photos on our website and social media. I came to Starfish Project with no confidence in myself, but now, I take pride in my work. While at Starfish Project, I have also gotten married and had a beautiful daughter. I have big dreams for my family's future, and I can't wait to achieve them!”
Mae Lee’s passion for photography shows her love for beauty and creativity. With newfound confidence and pride in her work, she is actively building a new future for her family while at Starfish Project.
Biyu says that she “developed a passion to help others. I am now the Production Manager at the Riverside Branch, and I oversee over 20 women who are escaping human trafficking. I also attend a community college. I am happily married and have a son and daughter.”
Through resilience, courage, and hope, the women at Starfish Project are discovering new skills, passion, and opportunities to create a life of freedom, independence and healing.
Starfish Project also provides holistic care and a safe, supportive community to the women who join. In addition to vocational training and education, Starfish Project provides counseling, community, and opportunities to pursue personal strengths and passions in order to support survivors as they heal and build new lives.
Read more about Survivor Stories of Hope, consider purchasing beautiful, impactful jewelry, and donate to Starfish Project to support women as they build new lives of hope and freedom. When you choose Starfish Project, you’re not just giving great gifts — you’re helping support new opportunities, education, and hope that endures.
Author: Noelle Min
Noelle is an Intern for Starfish Project, and student at the Ohio State University, studying Industrial Systems Engineering and Nonprofit Management.
