Dove's Story of Resilience
Dove grew up in a small nation in Africa where opportunities were limited. Like many young men in his community, he dreamed of a better future — not only for himself, but for his family. When he found work in Dubai, he was grateful. Life was steady, and he was able to send money home, providing stability and hope.
But when the world shut down during the COVID pandemic, everything changed. Dove and his co-workers suddenly found themselves unemployed, trapped far from home, and running out of resources. As weeks turned into months, desperation set in.
So when a job offer to teach English in Laos appeared, it felt like an answer to prayer. The contract looked legitimate. The opportunity seemed real. Dove and several others said yes.
A Promise That Became a Trap
Upon arrival in Laos, everything shifted. Instead of a school or orientation, they were taken from the airport and driven deep into a remote region. At gunpoint, they were forced into an underground trafficking market — a place where men and women were being bought and sold into online scam compounds and other criminal operations.
Dove watched as traffickers evaluated each person’s “value.” Bidders competed both in person and online. The scene felt unreal — a nightmare unfolding in real time.
Dove and several others were sold to the leader of a major scam operation. They were then trafficked across the border into Myanmar and forced into a tightly controlled compound. There, under constant surveillance and the threat of brutal violence, they were made to run online scams targeting people in Europe and the United States.
The Weight of Harm — and a Faith That Held
Dove was deeply grieved by the harm he was being forced to cause. As a Christian, he prayed continually — not just for escape, but for the strength to hold onto compassion and integrity in the middle of coercion.
He later shared:“There were moments I didn’t know if I would survive. But I kept praying for God to make a way.”
After three months, Dove found a small opening — a moment where he could contact a support organization. With their guidance, he prayed a desperate, specific prayer:
“Lord, I want to be out of this compound within 24 hours. I can’t take it anymore.”
The very next day, a miraculous opportunity to escape appeared. Dove ran.
The organization sheltered him immediately, and together they fell to their knees in praise — a moment of freedom made real.
Another Trial — and Another Miracle
But just as hope returned, Dove and several other escapees were arrested for immigration violations and taken to one of Myanmar’s most notorious prisons. Even though they were victims, the system criminalized them.
Inside the harsh conditions of prison, Dove’s spirit did not break.
He began leading morning prayer and worship gatherings. He encouraged others to hold onto hope. Some prisoners mocked them at first — but over time, even they became curious:
“Why do you meet every morning?”
“Why do you look so peaceful?”
Faith became light in a place built for despair.
Through Eden’s advocacy and prayers, Dove continued to believe that God was not finished with his story. And then — news arrived. The government had announced a prison amnesty, and Dove’s name was on the list.
The Journey Home
Eden acted swiftly, ensuring the survivors’ release and safe evacuation. At the Eden safe house, Dove received medical care, trauma counseling, and time to breathe and rebuild.
During his recovery, Dove shared a stirring conviction:
He felt called to attend Bible school. The suffering he had endured had strengthened his faith — and he wanted to help others find hope in their own valleys.
Finally, with Eden’s support, Dove traveled home. Soon after, a photograph arrived — Dove embracing his mother, who had once believed she might never see her son again.
Hope Restored
Dove’s story is a testimony of courage, faith, and the power of community.
It is also a reminder: Trafficking is not only a women’s issue.
Men — especially migrant workers — are increasingly targeted globally.
Yet even in the darkest realities of exploitation, there is always room for redemption.
Resilience is not simply surviving. It is choosing hope again.
Waymaker Necklace
Every Waymaker Necklace helps provide dignified employment for survivors of human trafficking and individuals from marginalized communities.
Through safe work, fair wages, counseling, and ongoing support, survivors are able to rebuild their lives, regain independence, and step boldly into their futures.
When you wear this piece, you’re not just choosing a meaningful style—you’re standing with survivors on their journey toward healing, hope, and lasting freedom.
