Episode 12: What You Wish You Knew

Shamere McKenzie is a consultant, activist, subject matter expert on human trafficking and an award-winning internationally recognized speaker and trainer. Turning her past adversities into an opportunity to liberate and protect others, Shamere has brought about social and political change in America and around the world. She is the Chief Executive Officer for Sun Gate Foundation, an anti-trafficking organization that provides educational opportunities for survivors of human trafficking. In addition, Shamere serves as the Training Manager for the National Human Trafficking Hotline in the United States. She is also the co-chair for the victim’s services committee for the Maryland State Human Trafficking Task Force. In 2018, Shamere responded to a call from the Ministry of Justice in her birthplace, Jamaica, and currently serves as the Anti-Trafficking Ambassador for Jamaica in the fight against human trafficking. Shamere works tirelessly to raise awareness on human trafficking by speaking at universities, conferences, community events, and consulting with government officials around the world. She has trained a variety of professionals on how to identify and respond to victims of human trafficking, including the FBI, Homeland Security, Bureau of Diplomatic Security, churches, hotel and airline staff to name a few. In 2015, Shamere graduated from Loyola University Chicago with her Bachelor of Science degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice.

Gabrielle (Gigi) Prieto is a dedicated advocate, speaker, educator, and mentor focused on supporting survivors of sex trafficking and exploitation. She uses her personal experiences as a survivor to inspire and empower others, primarily working with women, children, and the LGBTQ+ communities. Currently serving as the Senior Peer Care Navigator at Sanctuary for Families' The EMPOWER Center, Gigi challenges the social stigma surrounding victims of trafficking and advocates for a Human Rights Approach to combat the sex trade. In addition to her role, Gigi also holds positions as an Executive Board Member and Director of several New York-based coalitions, engaging in advocacy on behalf of survivors within the Tri-State area. Her tireless commitment revolves around eradicating systems of prostitution, promoting gender equality, ending violence, and combating human capitalism. Through her transformative journey from survivor to advocate, Gigi aims to make a meaningful impact by pursuing advanced academic degrees in Social Work and Humanities.