What did you do before you joined the AFP?
When I was in year 10, my friend’s father was volunteering internationally to help rescue children from child exploitation. I was 16 and hearing about children aged 6 to 16 who were being sexually abused and trafficked throughout Thailand and Cambodia. I had only known safety in my family, community and country. I realised that with privilege comes a responsibility to be a voice for those unable to use their own
I established a not-for-profit organisation called Chant4Change. Concerts showcasing local talent raised over $30,000. These funds went to a charity which frees children from sex-trafficking in South East Asia, providing them with skills training and a fresh start to life. I then moved to Cambodia to volunteer, teaching work skills to girls aged 12 to 17. I was thrilled to see where funds had been used and meet young people whose lives had been changed. Each rescue meant an amazing transformation and freedom for the child. But I also realised that changes needed to be made at a government level to stop people travelling to exploit children.
In 2014, I was named Queensland’s Young Australian of the Year. In this role, I spoke at schools across Australia about child exploitation and human trafficking.
What is your qualification?
Bachelor of International Relations and Politics.
What areas of the AFP did you work in during the Graduate Program?
I started the Graduate Program in the Protection Operations portfolio and worked within the aviation and victim based crime areas. I had the opportunity to assist in the establishment of the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE).
What type of work did you do?
While working in the ACCCE, I provided logistical support towards the launch of important events, including the launch of the ACCCE. I also helped coordinate 2 stakeholder engagement days with state and territory police, government agencies and non-government organisations.
What was the highlight of the program for you?
The highlight of my graduate year was the opportunity to assist in establishing the ACCCE. This role allowed me to use my knowledge of international relations and politics in Australia and throughout the South East Asia region. I got to experience the decision-making processes and helped establish key government policies within the context of a global environment. Being able to work on something that you are incredibly passionate about is a privilege and an amazing opportunity!
What do you do now with the AFP?
I am still with the ACCCE. I lead the Human Exploitation Prevention and Engagement team. The team works on developing partnerships with child exploitation and human trafficking stakeholders. I work with stakeholders on prevention and awareness campaigns and develop key resources. I also work to ensure communities are better equipped to prevent human exploitation. I encourage initiatives to raise awareness, deter offenders, empower children to protect themselves, and educate the community to address the increase of human exploitation.