Fourways’ Nicole Capper partners with NGO to fight against trafficking

Although comprehensive statistics are difficult to come by, the International Labour Organisation estimates that 40,3 million people globally have been victims of human trafficking, an industry worth about US$150 billion.

Men, women and children are at risk of being bought and sold in a worldwide illegal trade in humans.

Fourways resident and Tammy Taylor Mrs South Africa 2018 winner, Nicole Capper has partnered with the non-governmental organisation (NGO) Love Justice SA as their spokesperson for their work aimed at fighting human trafficking in South Africa.

“I think we all think we know what human trafficking is,” Capper said. “What people need to know is that human trafficking is not like the movie Taken [a 2008 film starring Liam Neeson].

“It’s not always a scary kidnapping. People who are trafficked often get lured in with an opportunity that looks too good to be true. Imagine you were offered a lucrative modelling job overseas? Perhaps [the traffickers] have already put some money in your bank account and now you think you have the opportunity for a new life.”

Once the traffickers have lured someone in, it’s not long until the promises fall through and the victims are soon forced to work in industries such as sex work or manual labour, often while suffering violence and rape. “Once someone has entered the trade, it’s incredibly difficult to rescue them. That’s why Love Justice focuses on helping people while they are in the process of being trafficked,” she said.

The NGO places specially-trained staff at strategic points around the country, such as border posts, to monitor travellers in order to spot trafficking red flags, meaning they can intervene while the victim is still in transit. They also provide care for those rescued and help to prosecute the perpetrators.

“Everyone is a potential target, not just children. It’s not about skin colour, it’s not about gender, it’s not about culture and it’s not about religion.”

In her role, Capper wants to bring awareness to the issue of human trafficking and Love Justice’s work fighting it. She hopes the public will financially support the NGO, and also begin a conversation in schools and universities to encourage safety.

“My advice to people who want to keep themselves safe is: Don’t make big decisions by accepting a job offer overseas, alone. Look at offers given to you sceptically and be careful on social media and never share personal information.

“We don’t just need to protect ourselves, we also need to look out for others.”

Details: www.lovejusticesa.ngo