Raising hope and awareness for those impacted by sex trafficking

Fight 4 Freedom (F4F) will host its inaugural Beyond Beauty Art Gala on April 4 at Toronto Marriot Markham to support those impacted by sex trafficking.

Founded in 2009 after the domestic trafficking of an underage girl in Canada, F4F has since built a community dedicated to providing safety, healing, and freedom. Proceeds from the gala will support survivor care, education, outreach, and partnerships, as well as help fund the organization’s first safe house.

Attendees will enjoy live music, live painting by artist Liliya Muglia, art displays, hors d’oeuvres, desserts, and refreshments. The event will also feature live and silent auctions showcasing paintings and photography.

Keynote speaker Leona Skye-Grandmond, a visual artist of Ojibwa/Mohawk descent and a survivor of human trafficking, will share her journey of healing through art. “I hope to show that love still exists, art is a movement, and creativity can create change,” she said. Skye-Grandmond emphasized the value of survivor-led programming, adding, “To be embraced by someone who has had a similar journey helps encourage those who don’t think they have a tomorrow.”

Jesus Bondo is a chair of the board member at F4F highlights the mission’s awareness and support saying “The Beyond Beauty Art Gala is incredibly impactful in supporting Fight 4 Freedom’s mission as it serves as both a fundraising and awareness-building event. The gala also allows us to share stories of hope and transformation through art and speakers, inspiring attendees to join us in the fight for freedom.”

F4F founder Mike Fishchoff reflected on the organization’s mission: “Witnessing the resilience and courage of survivors has been profoundly inspiring. Each success story reinforces the importance of our mission and the impact that dedicated support can have on an individual’s journey to freedom. It’s a privilege to be part of an organization that not only fights against injustice but also fosters hope and healing in the lives of those affected.”

The Beyond Beauty Art Gala aims to educate and expand resources to support those impacted by sex trafficking. To learn more or purchase tickets, visit fight4freedom.ca.

 

 

*Story submitted by Christina Manserra.