https://www.ohci.com.ng
- Nigeria
- Hybrid of for-profit and nonprofit
Specific Problem:
We are addressing the pervasive issue of modern slavery in Nigeria, which manifests as human trafficking, forced labor, and exploitation. The problem is severe both locally and globally:
Scale of the Problem:
Nigeria is a major source, transit, and destination country for human trafficking, with thousands of individuals, particularly women and children, affected annually.
According to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), over 14,000 Nigerian women and children were trafficked between 2015 and 2020.
Many survivors face severe physical and psychological trauma, lack of economic opportunities, and social stigma, hindering their reintegration into society.
-Globally:
The International Labour Organization (ILO) estimates that 40.3 million people are victims of modern slavery worldwide, including 24.9 million in forced labor and 15.4 million in forced marriages.
Trafficking and exploitation generate approximately $150 billion annually for traffickers, making it one of the most lucrative criminal enterprises globally.
Contributing Factors:
Economic Vulnerability: High levels of poverty and unemployment drive individuals into situations where they are susceptible to exploitation.
Lack of Awareness: Limited awareness about the risks and realities of human trafficking contributes to the prevalence of the issue.
Insufficient Support Systems: Survivors often lack access to comprehensive rehabilitation services, vocational training, and social support, making it difficult for them to rebuild their lives.
Stigma and Social Exclusion: Survivors face significant social stigma and discrimination, hindering their reintegration into communities.
Relevance to Our Solution:
Our solution directly addresses these contributing factors by:
Providing Comprehensive Rehabilitation: Our integrated care model includes medical, psychological, and legal support to help survivors recover from trauma and regain their health.
Offering Vocational Training and Economic Opportunities:We equip survivors with marketable skills and micro-grants to start small businesses, fostering economic independence.
Raising Awareness and Sensitizing Communities: Through workshops and media campaigns, we educate communities about the realities of modern slavery, reducing stigma and fostering supportive environments.
Collaborating with Local and Global Partners:** We work with government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations to strengthen anti-trafficking efforts and support systems.
By addressing the root causes and providing holistic support, our solution aims to break the cycle of exploitation and empower survivors to lead independent, dignified lives.
Solution Description
Our solution is a comprehensive support system designed to empower survivors of modern slavery in Nigeria through rehabilitation, vocational training, and community reintegration. This multi-faceted approach combines digital technology, community engagement, and professional services to address the complex needs of survivors.
Key Components:
1. Integrated Case Management System (ICMS):
What it is: A digital platform that consolidates survivor data, tracks progress, and coordinates care across multiple services. What it does: ICMS ensures that medical, psychological, legal, and vocational support are seamlessly integrated, providing a holistic view of each survivor’s rehabilitation journey.
How it works: Healthcare providers, counselors, and vocational trainers input data into the system, which then generates personalized care plans and tracks outcomes in real-time.
2. Rehabilitation Services:
What it is:Comprehensive medical and psychological support for survivors.
What it does:bProvides trauma-informed care to address the physical and mental health needs of survivors.
How it works: Survivors receive medical check-ups, counseling sessions, and therapeutic interventions from trained professionals at our centers.
3. Vocational Training and Economic Empowerment:**
What it is:** E-learning platforms and on-site training programs that equip survivors with marketable skills.
What it does:** Prepares survivors for employment or entrepreneurship, fostering economic independence. How it works:Survivors participate in courses such as ICT, tailoring, hairdressing, and entrepreneurship, with progress tracked via the e-learning platform. Graduates receive micro-grants or job placement assistance.
4. Mobile Health Applications (mHealth)
What it is: Mobile apps providing remote health monitoring and support.
What it does: Ensures continuous access to healthcare and psychological support for survivors, even in remote areas.
How it works:Survivors use the app to schedule telemedicine consultations, receive mental health check-ins, and access health resources.
5.Community Engagement and Sensitization: What it is: Awareness campaigns and educational programs aimed at reducing stigma and preventing re-trafficking.
What it does: Educates communities about modern slavery and fosters supportive environments for reintegration.
How it works:** We use social media, local radio, workshops, and forums to share survivor stories, provide information, and engage community leaders.
Technology Used:
Integrated Case Management System:Built on secure, cloud-based software to ensure data privacy and real-time access for all stakeholders.
E-Learning Platforms: Interactive online platforms offering a range of vocational courses, accessible from any internet-enabled device.
- Mobile Health Applications: Secure, user-friendly apps designed to facilitate remote consultations and health monitoring.
-Social Media and Digital Platforms:** Utilized for community engagement, awareness campaigns, and educational content dissemination.How It Works:
1. Survivor Enrollment: Individuals rescued from trafficking are enrolled in our program through referrals from law enforcement, NGOs, or community partners.
2. Assessment and Care Plan: An initial assessment is conducted to understand the survivor’s needs, followed by the creation of a personalized care plan.
3. Integrated Support: Survivors receive coordinated services through our digital platforms and physical centers, ensuring holistic rehabilitation.
4. Progress Tracking: ICMS tracks each survivor’s progress, enabling timely interventions and adjustments to care plans.
5. Community Reintegration:** Through vocational training and community sensitization, survivors gain skills, find employment, and reintegrate into society.
Our solution not only addresses the immediate needs of survivors but also equips them with the tools and support.
Ensuring Ethical and Responsible Use of Technology
1. Privacy and Security:
Risks:
Data Privacy:Sensitive information about survivors, such as health records and personal histories, could be exposed if not properly protected.
Data Security:Risk of cyberattacks that could compromise the integrity and confidentiality of our Integrated Case Management System (ICMS) and other digital platforms.
Mitigation Measures:
Encryption: All data stored and transmitted through our systems are encrypted using industry-standard protocols to prevent unauthorized access.
Access Controls: Implementing strict access controls ensures that only authorized personnel can access sensitive information. Regular audits and monitoring help detect and address any unauthorized access.
-Data Anonymization: Whenever possible, data is anonymized to protect the identity of survivors, especially when used for research or reporting purposes.
Compliance: Adhering to local and international data protection regulations, such as Nigeria’s Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
2. Ethical Use of AI: Risks:
Bias and Discrimination: algorithms could inadvertently reinforce biases if trained on biased data, leading to unfair treatment of certain groups.
-Transparency: Lack of transparency in how AI decisions are made can lead to mistrust among users and stakeholders.
Mitigation Measures:
-Bias Mitigation:Our AI systems are regularly audited for biases, and training data is carefully selected and reviewed to ensure diversity and representativeness.
-Transparency: We maintain transparency about how algorithms are used and ensure that stakeholders understand the decision-making processes. Clear documentation and explainability are prioritized.
Human Oversight: AI-driven recommendations and decisions are reviewed by human experts to ensure accuracy, fairness, and ethical alignment.
3. Ethical Considerations and Policy Implications:
Risks:
Exploitation and Harm: Inappropriate use of technology could inadvertently exploit or harm survivors, particularly in terms of their privacy and autonomy.
Policy Compliance:Non-compliance with local and international policies could result in legal challenges and undermine trust.
Mitigation Measures:
Informed Consent:Survivors are fully informed about how their data will be used and must provide explicit consent before any data collection or use.
Ethical Guidelines:We adhere to ethical guidelines developed in collaboration with human rights organizations, ensuring that our technology use respects and upholds the dignity and rights of survivors.
Policy Engagement:Regularly engage with policymakers and stakeholders to stay informed about relevant regulations and ensure our practices are in compliance.
4. Risk Assessments and Continuous Improvement:
Risk Assessments:
Regular Audits: Conduct regular risk assessments and audits of our technological systems to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.
Stakeholder Feedback: Collect feedback from survivors, staff, and partners to understand any concerns and improve our systems.
Continuous Improvement:
Training and Awareness: Provide ongoing training for our staff on ethical technology use, data protection, and privacy.
-Adaptive Strategies: Continuously adapt and update our technologies and policies in response to new risks, regulations, and technological advancements.
Conclusion:
Our commitment to ethical and responsible use of technology is central to our mission. By implementing robust privacy and security measures, ensuring transparency and fairness in AI use, adhering to ethical guidelines, and continuously assessing and improving our practices, we aim to protect and empower the survivors we serve while maintaining the trust and confidence of all stakeholders.
Our solution serves survivors of modern slavery in Nigeria, primarily women and children who have been trafficked, forced into labor, or exploited. This population is currently underserved, lacking access to comprehensive rehabilitation services, vocational training, and community support. Our solution addresses their needs by providing holistic care, including medical and psychological support, skills training, and community reintegration, empowering them to rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.
Team Qualifications and Community Proximity
Proximity to the Communities:
Our team is deeply rooted in the communities we serve, with many members having personal and professional experiences that align closely with the challenges faced by survivors of modern slavery. The Team Lead and several key members are natives of Nigeria, possessing an intimate understanding of the cultural, social, and economic contexts that shape the lives of our target population.
Community Representation:
Team Lead:The Team Lead has firsthand experience working with vulnerable populations in Nigeria, including survivors of trafficking and forced labor. Having grown up in the region, they possess an innate understanding of the local challenges and dynamics, which informs the design and implementation of our solution.
Survivor Input: Our team includes survivors of modern slavery who have transitioned to roles as community outreach coordinators and peer mentors. Their insights and experiences are invaluable in shaping our programs and ensuring they are relevant and effective.
Local Experts: We employ healthcare professionals, vocational trainers, and social workers from the local communities, ensuring that our services are culturally sensitive and tailored to the specific needs of survivors.C
Community-GuidedDesign and Implementation:**
Needs Assessment: Before launching our solution, we conducted extensive needs assessments through interviews, focus groups, and surveys with survivors and community members. This direct input guided the development of our rehabilitation, vocational training, and community reintegration programs.
Continuous Feedback: We maintain ongoing channels for feedback from survivors and community stakeholders. Regular meetings, surveys, and suggestion boxes ensure that our programs evolve based on the needs and preferences of those we serve.
Community Partnerships: We collaborate closely with local NGOs, community leaders, and government agencies to align our efforts with community agendas and leverage existing resources and networks. These partnerships enhance the reach and impact of our solution.
Local and Cultural Competence:
Culturally Relevant Training: Our vocational training programs are designed to reflect local market demands and cultural practices, increasing the likelihood of successful employment and entrepreneurship.
Culturally Sensitive Care: Medical and psychological services are provided by professionals who understand local cultural nuances, ensuring respectful and effective care.
Track Record and Commitment:
Demonstrated Impact: Over the past three years, our team has successfully launched pilot projects that have rehabilitated and empowered hundreds of survivors. Testimonials and success stories from these individuals highlight the positive changes in their lives.
Long-Term Engagement:Our commitment to these communities is long-term. We are not only focused on immediate relief but also on sustainable, systemic change. This dedication fosters trust and cooperation from the communities we serve.
Conclusion:
Our team's deep connection to the target population, combined with our commitment to community-guided design and culturally competent implementation, positions us uniquely to deliver impactful and sustainable solutions to survivors of modern slavery in Nigeria. By continuously involving the community in our processes, we ensure that our programs remain relevant, effective, and respectful of the lived experiences of those we aim to support.
- Training and supporting existing organizations and agencies in ways to outreach to and appropriately work with survivors
- 1. No Poverty
- 3. Good Health and Well-Being
- 5. Gender Equality
- 8. Decent Work and Economic Growth
- 10. Reduced Inequalities
- Prototype
Prototype Stage: Achievements and Impact
What We Have Built and Tested:
1. Integrated Case Management System (ICMS):
Development: We have developed a secure, cloud-based ICMS that consolidates survivor data, tracks progress, and coordinates care across multiple services.
Testing:The system has been tested in a pilot program, ensuring it effectively manages and integrates data from various service providers.
2. Rehabilitation Centers:
Establishment: We have established pilot rehabilitation centers in key regions, equipped with medical facilities, counseling rooms, and training spaces.
Testing:These centers have been operational for over a year, providing medical, psychological, and legal support to survivors.
3. Vocational Training Programs
Development: We have designed and implemented e-learning platforms and on-site vocational training programs in ICT, tailoring, hairdressing, and entrepreneurship.
Testing:These programs have been piloted with survivors, with continuous feedback loops to refine and improve the curriculum and delivery methods.
4. Mobile Health Applications (mHealth):
Development:We have created mobile apps that offer remote health monitoring and support, including telemedicine consultations and mental health check-ins.
Testing:The apps have been tested with a select group of survivors, ensuring usability and effectiveness in providing remote care.
5. **Community Engagement Initiatives:
Development: We have launched awareness campaigns and educational programs using social media, local radio, and community workshops.
Testing:These initiatives have been conducted in pilot communities, successfully raising awareness and fostering supportive environments for reintegration.
BeneficiariesServed:
Number of Survivors:Over the past three years, our pilot programs have directly served more than 500 survivors of modern slavery. These individuals have received a range of services, including medical care, psychological support, vocational training, and legal assistance.
Impact:The feedback from these beneficiaries has been overwhelmingly positive, with many reporting significant improvements in their health, well-being, and economic prospects. Success stories include survivors who have started their own businesses, secured employment, and reintegrated into their communities with dignity and independence.
Achievements:
Holistic Rehabilitation: Survivors have received comprehensive care that addresses their physical, psychological, and economic needs, leading to better overall outcomes.
Economic Empowerment: Many survivors have completed vocational training programs, received micro-grants, and started small businesses, achieving financial independence.
Community Awareness:Our awareness campaigns have reached thousands of community members, reducing stigma and creating supportive environments for survivors.
Data-Driven Improvements: Continuous data collection and analysis through ICMS have allowed us to refine our programs based on real-time feedback and outcomes, ensuring that our services remain effective and responsive to the needs of survivors.
Conclusion:
Our prototype stage has demonstrated the feasibility and impact of our solution. By building and testing key components such as the ICMS, rehabilitation centers, vocational training programs, and mHealth applications, we have laid a solid foundation for scaling our efforts. The positive feedback and tangible outcomes from the beneficiaries we have served affirm the effectiveness of our approach in empowering survivors of modern slavery in Nigeria.
Why We Are Applying to the Challenge
1. Financial Support:
Barrier:Limited funding restricts our ability to scale our solution and reach more survivors.
How the Challenge Can Help:Financial support from the Challenge would enable us to expand our rehabilitation centers, enhance our vocational training programs, and increase our community outreach initiatives. This funding will also help in developing more robust technological solutions, such as improving our Integrated Case Management System (ICMS) and mobile health applications.2. Technical Expertise:
Barrier: Developing and maintaining sophisticated technology, such as AI-driven components in our ICMS and mHealth applications, requires advanced technical expertise that is currently limited within our team.
How the Challenge Can Help: Access to MIT’s network of technology experts and mentors can provide us with the technical guidance needed to refine and optimize our digital solutions. This support can help us address technical challenges, enhance the functionality of our platforms, and ensure the ethical use of AI.
3. Legal and Regulatory Assistance:
Barrier: Navigating the complex legal and regulatory landscape in Nigeria, especially regarding data privacy and protection, poses a significant challenge.
How the Challenge Can Help: Legal support and resources from the Challenge can help us ensure compliance with local and international regulations. This assistance can also guide us in establishing robust data protection protocols, enhancing the security and privacy of survivor information.4. Cultural Sensitivity and Community Engagement:B
Barrier ensuring that our programs are culturally sensitive and effectively engage the communities we serve requires continuous adaptation and input.
How the Challenge Can Help:The Challenge’s focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion can provide us with best practices and resources to further develop culturally competent programs. Additionally, the platform can facilitate connections with other organizations working in similar cultural contexts, fostering collaboration and shared learning.
5. Market Barriers:
Barrier:identifying sustainable revenue models and market opportunities for the vocational training programs we offer to survivors.
How the Challenge Can Help: Business development support from the Challenge can help us explore new revenue streams, refine our business model, and establish partnerships with local and international businesses. This support can help ensure the financial sustainability of our programs and create more job opportunities for survivors.
6. Networking and Partnerships:
Barrier:Limited access to a broader network of organizations, experts, and potential partners who can support our mission.
How the Challenge Can Help:Being part of the Challenge community can provide us with valuable networking opportunities. Connections with other innovators, NGOs, academic institutions, and businesses can lead to collaborations that enhance our impact. These partnerships can also open doors to new funding sources, joint ventures, and shared resources.
Conclusion
Applying to the Challenge presents an opportunity to overcome significant financial, technical, legal, cultural, and market barriers. With the support of the Challenge, we aim to scale our solution, enhance our technological capabilities, ensure compliance with regulations, improve cultural sensitivity, develop sustainable revenue models, and build a strong network of partners. This comprehensive support will enable us to make a more significant and lasting impact on the lives of survivors of modern slavery in Nigeria.
- Financial (e.g. accounting practices, pitching to investors)
- Human Capital (e.g. sourcing talent, board development)
- Product / Service Distribution (e.g. delivery, logistics, expanding client base)
Innovation in Our Solution
Our project, "Empowering Survivors of Modern Slavery in Nigeria," introduces a holistic and integrated approach to tackling the multifaceted challenges faced by survivors. Here’s what makes our solution innovative:
1. Comprehensive Rehabilitation Centers:
Unlike traditional initiatives that often focus solely on either medical or psychological support, our rehabilitation centers offer a full spectrum of services under one roof. This includes medical care, psychological counseling, legal aid, and skills training. By centralizing these services, we ensure that survivors receive coordinated and uninterrupted care, facilitating a smoother recovery process.2
. Tailored Vocational Training Programs:
Our vocational training is customized based on thorough needs assessments of survivors. This ensures relevance and increases the likelihood of economic independence. By including modern, high-demand skills such as ICT alongside traditional skills like tailoring and hairdressing, we prepare survivors for a diverse job market, making them more adaptable and employable.
3. Micro-Grants and Business Mentorship:**
Providing micro-grants paired with business mentorship helps survivors not only start their own businesses but also sustain and grow them. This approach addresses the financial barriers that typically hinder the economic reintegration of survivors and equips them with the necessary tools and knowledge to succeed independently.
4. Community Sensitization and Advocacy:
Our strategy extends beyond direct support to survivors by focusing on community-level interventions. Through workshops, media campaigns, and engagement with religious and traditional leaders, we aim to change societal attitudes and reduce the stigma associated with survivors of modern slavery. This dual approach ensures that the reintegration of survivors is supported by a more informed and empathetic community.Catalyzing Broader Positive Impacts:
1. Creating a Model for Comprehensive Care:
By integrating multiple forms of support into single rehabilitation centers, our project can serve as a replicable model for other organizations and governments. Demonstrating the efficacy of comprehensive care could inspire broader adoption of this approach, potentially leading to systemic changes in how survivor support is structured globally.
2. Empowering Local Communities:
Our community sensitization efforts not only support survivors but also foster a culture of vigilance and prevention. Educated communities are better equipped to recognize and prevent trafficking, creating a ripple effect of awareness and proactive engagement.
3. Influencing Policy and Practice:
As we document best practices and lessons learned, our findings can inform policy recommendations and advocate for changes in national and international frameworks for combating modern slavery. This evidence-based advocacy has the potential to influence broader legislative and policy shifts, ensuring that survivor support is prioritized and adequately funded.
Changing the Market/Landscape:
1. Integrating Economic Empowerment:
By focusing on economic empowerment through tailored vocational training and micro-grants, our project addresses one of the root causes of vulnerability—poverty. This economic focus can shift the market landscape by creating a pool of skilled, resilient workers and entrepreneurs who contribute positively to the local economy.
2. Promoting Private Sector Engagement:
Our approach encourages partnerships with local businesses and industries, highlighting the benefits of inclusive hiring practices and corporate social responsibility. This can catalyze a broader movement within the private sector to support and employ survivors,
Our theory of change operates on the premise that comprehensive support for survivors of modern slavery leads to successful reintegration and long-term independence. Here's how and why we expect our solution to have an impact:
Activities:
1. Establish Rehabilitation Centers
Provide medical care, psychological counseling, and legal aid.
2. Vocational Training and Micro-Grants:
Offer training in various skills and provide financial support to start small businesses.
3. Community Sensitization:
Conduct workshops and media campaigns to reduce stigma and foster community support.
Immediate Outputs:
1. Rehabilitation Centers*
500 survivors receive integrated health and psychological care.
2. Vocational Training and Micro-Grants:
300 survivors acquire market-relevant skills and receive startup grants.
3.Community Sensitization: - Increased community awareness and reduced stigma towards survivors.
Longer-Term Outcomes:
1. Health and Well-being**:
Survivors experience improved physical and mental health.
2. Economic Independence**: - Survivors gain employment or start businesses, leading to self-sufficiency.
3.Supportive Communities
Communities become more supportive and vigilant, reducing re-trafficking risks.
Evidence Supporting Links:
-Integrated Care**: Research shows that combined medical and psychological support improves recovery outcomes (UNODC, 2016).
Economic Empowerment**: Vocational training and financial support reduce re-trafficking by enhancing economic stability (ILO, 2019).
Community Engagement: Awareness campaigns and community support decrease stigma and improve reintegration success
By linking comprehensive rehabilitation, economic empowerment, and community support, our solution addresses the immediate and long-term needs of survivors, fostering a sustainable path to independence and societal acceptance.
Impact Goals and Measurement
Impact Goals:
1. Enhanced Health and Well-being for Survivors:
Improve the physical and psychological health of survivors of modern slavery through comprehensive care.
2. Economic Empowerment and Independence:
Enable survivors to achieve economic self-sufficiency through vocational training and micro-grants.
3. Supportive and Informed Communities:
Reduce stigma and increase community support for the reintegration of survivors, fostering environments that prevent re-trafficking.
Measuring Progress:
1. Enhanced Health and Well-being:
Indicators
Number of Survivors Receiving Medical and Psychological Support:** Track the number of survivors who receive comprehensive medical and psychological care at our rehabilitation centers.
Improvement in Health Outcomes:Use pre- and post-treatment assessments to measure improvements in physical and mental health conditions.
Measurement Tools:
Health Records:Maintain detailed health records of survivors, documenting initial conditions and progress over time.
Psychological Assessments: Conduct standardized psychological evaluations at intake and periodically to assess improvements in mental health.
2. Economic Empowerment and Independence:
Indicators:
Number of Survivors Completing Vocational Training:Track the number of survivors who complete various vocational training programs.
Employment and Business Start-up Rates: Measure the number of survivors who gain employment or start their own businesses after receiving training and micro-grants.
Income Levels:Track changes in income levels of survivors pre- and post-training to gauge economic improvement.
Measurement Tools:
Training Attendance Records:** Keep detailed records of training participation and completion.
Follow-up Surveys:Conduct regular follow-up surveys to monitor employment status, business success, and income levels.
3. Supportive and Informed Communities:
Indicators:
Number of Community Sensitization Events Held:** Count the number of workshops, seminars, and media campaigns conducted.
Community Attitude Changes: Measure changes in community attitudes towards survivors through pre- and post-campaign surveys.
Reduction in Re-trafficking Rates: Track the number of re-trafficking incidents reported in the targeted communities.
Measurement Tools:
Event Logs: Maintain records of all community sensitization activities and attendance.
Surveys and Focus Groups: Use surveys and focus groups to assess changes in community attitudes towards survivors.
NAPTIP and Local NGO Reports:Collaborate with NAPTIP and local NGOs to monitor and report re-trafficking incidents.
Alignment with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being): Our efforts align with targets related to ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all ages.
Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth):** We support inclusive and sustainable economic growth by providing decent work and economic opportunities for survivors.
Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions):** By reducing stigma and fostering supportive communities, we contribute to promoting peaceful and inclusive societies.
By systematically measuring these indicators, we ensure that our impact goals remain focused and attainable, guiding all aspects of our work towards creating transformational impacts on the lives of modern slavery survivors in Nigeria.
Core Technology Powering Our Solution
Our solution leverages a combination of digital technologies and evidence-based practices to address the multifaceted challenges faced by survivors of modern slavery. The core technology components include:
1. Integrated Case Management System (ICMS):
Description:ICMS is a digital platform designed to manage and track the rehabilitation progress of survivors. It integrates medical records, psychological assessments, vocational training progress, and personal development plans into one unified system.
Functionality: The system allows healthcare providers, counselors, and vocational trainers to input and access real-time data on each survivor’s progress. This ensures coordinated care and enables timely interventions.
Impact:By streamlining the management of survivor data, ICMS enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of rehabilitation efforts, ensuring that survivors receive comprehensive and cohesive support.
2. E-Learning and Training Modules:
Description: We utilize e-learning platforms to deliver vocational training and life skills education to survivors. These platforms offer a range of courses in high-demand skills such as ICT, tailoring, hairdressing, and entrepreneurship.
Functionality: Survivors can access training materials, participate in interactive sessions, and complete assessments online. The platform also includes features for tracking progress and providing feedback.
Impact:E-learning makes vocational training accessible to survivors regardless of their location, and allows for flexible learning schedules. This enhances the reach and impact of our training programs, enabling more survivors to gain valuable skills and become economically independent.
3. Mobile Health Applications:
Description:Mobile health (mHealth) applications are used to provide remote health monitoring and psychological support to survivors. These apps facilitate telemedicine consultations, mental health check-ins, and medication reminders.
Functionality:Survivors can schedule virtual appointments with healthcare providers, receive counseling through video calls, and access mental health resources directly on their mobile devices.
Impact: Health applications improve access to healthcare services, especially for survivors in remote or underserved areas. They ensure continuous support and monitoring, contributing to better health outcomes.
4. Community Engagement Platforms:
Description:bWe use social media and other digital platforms to conduct community sensitization and advocacy campaigns. These platforms help disseminate information, raise awareness, and engage community members in dialogue.
Functionality: Campaigns are run on social media channels, featuring survivor stories, educational content, and interactive sessions with community leaders. Online forums and discussion groups provide spaces for community members to ask questions and share experiences.
Impact: Digital platforms enable widespread and rapid dissemination of information, reaching a larger audience. They foster a more informed and supportive community environment, which is crucial for the successful reintegration of survivors.
Benefits to People and the Planet People:Our technology-driven solution directly benefits survivors of modern slavery by providing them with accessible, comprehensive, and coordinated support. It empowers them with the skills and resources needed for economic independence and long-term well-being. Additionally, it educates and engages communities, fostering environments that are supportive and vigilant against re-trafficking.
Planet: By promoting digital literacy and economic independence through ICT training, our solution aligns with sustainable development goals. Empowered survivors are more likely to engage in sustainable practices and contribute positively
- A new application of an existing technology
- Audiovisual Media
- Behavioral Technology
- Crowd Sourced Service / Social Networks
- Software and Mobile Applications
- Nigeria
- Nigeria
Our solution team comprises:
-Full-time staff: 4
Part-time staff:5
Contractors or other workers: 2
This team includes healthcare professionals, vocational trainers, case managers, community outreach coordinators, and IT specialists, all working together to ensure the comprehensive delivery of services to survivors of modern slavery.
Our team has been working on this solution for 3 years. We started by conducting initial research and forming partnerships with local organizations. Over this period, we have developed and refined our integrated case management system, launched pilot rehabilitation centers, and rolled out our e-learning and community engagement platforms. Our continuous efforts have been focused on improving and expanding the support provided to survivors of modern slavery in Nigeria.
Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Diverse Leadership and Team Composition:*
Our leadership team and broader staff are intentionally diverse, reflecting a range of social, cultural, and identity-based attributes. Our team includes individuals from various ethnic backgrounds, genders, and professional experiences, ensuring a rich mix of perspectives and ideas. Specifically:
-Gender Diversity: We maintain a balanced representation of men and women in leadership positions and across all roles.
Cultural and Ethnic Diversity: Our team members come from different regions of Nigeria and include individuals from historically marginalized communities.
Goals for Becoming More Diverse, Equitable, and Inclusive:
1. Increase Representation:** Continuously strive to increase the representation of underrepresented groups within our team, particularly in leadership and decision-making roles.
2. Equity in Opportunities: Ensure that all team members have equal access to professional development, training, and advancement opportunities.
3. Inclusive Environment:** Foster a workplace culture where all team members feel welcomed, respected, supported, and valued.
Actions Taken to Achieve These Goals:
1. Inclusive Hiring Practices:
Targeted Recruitment: We actively recruit from diverse talent pools and work with community organizations to reach underrepresented candidates.
Bias-Free Selection: Implement structured interviews and standardized evaluation criteria to minimize unconscious bias in hiring decisions.
2.Professional Development and Mentorship:
Training Programs:Provide regular diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training for all staff to build awareness and skills.
Mentorship:Establish mentorship programs that pair experienced staff with newer employees from diverse backgrounds to support career growth and professional development.
3. Equitable Policies and Practices:
Flexible Work Arrangements:** Offer flexible working hours and remote work options to accommodate different needs and circumstances.
Pay Equity: Conduct regular pay audits to ensure equitable compensation across all roles and address any disparities.
4. **Inclusive Workplace Culture:
Employee Resource Groups: Support the formation of employee resource groups (ERGs) that focus on various aspects of diversity and provide a platform for underrepresented voices.
Feedback Mechanisms: Implement regular surveys and feedback mechanisms to understand the experiences of all team members and identify areas for improvement.
Celebration of Diversity: Celebrate cultural, religious, and social diversity through events, recognition programs, and inclusive holiday observances.
5. Community Engagement and Partnerships:
Local Collaborations: Partner with local organizations and community leaders to ensure our initiatives are culturally sensitive and inclusive.
Stakeholder Involvement: Involve survivors and community members in the planning and evaluation of our programs to ensure they meet diverse needs and contexts.
**Outcomes and Continuous Improvement:
-Regular Reviews: Conduct periodic reviews of our DEI policies and practices to measure progress and identify areas for improvement.
Transparency: Maintain transparency in our DEI efforts by sharing progress reports and goals with all stakeholders.
- **Adaptation:** Stay adaptive and responsive to feedback, continuously evolving our strategies to create a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment.
By prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion, we not only create a supportive and enriching environment for our team but also enhance the effectiveness and reach of our programs for survivors of modern slavery.
Business Model
Overview:
Our business model centers around providing comprehensive support to survivors of modern slavery in Nigeria, focusing on their rehabilitation, economic empowerment, and community reintegration. We aim to deliver sustainable impact while ensuring financial viability through a mix of funding sources and strategic partnerships.
Key Customers and Beneficiaries:
1. Survivors of Modern Slavery:
Products/Services: Comprehensive rehabilitation services including medical care, psychological support, vocational training, and community reintegration programs.
-Delivery: Services are delivered through our rehabilitation centers, e-learning platforms, and community engagement initiatives.
Value Proposition:* Survivors receive holistic support tailored to their needs, enabling them to rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.
2. Community Stakeholders:
Products/Services: Community sensitization workshops, advocacy campaigns, and capacity-building initiatives.
Delivery: Conducted through partnerships with local NGOs, media channels, and community leaders.
Value Proposition: Communities gain awareness about the issue of modern slavery, reduce stigma towards survivors, and contribute to prevention efforts.
3. Government and Institutional Partners:
Products/Services: Collaboration on policy advocacy, data sharing, and capacity-building activities.
Delivery:Through formal partnerships and participation in policy dialogues.
Value Proposition: Partners benefit from enhanced capacity to address modern slavery, improved data insights, and alignment with national and international frameworks.
Revenue Streams:
1. **Grants and Donations:**
- Source:** From international organizations, foundations, and philanthropic entities.
-Purpose: Fund operational costs, program implementation, and capacity-building initiatives.
2. Corporate Partnerships:
Source: Engaging with businesses for CSR initiatives, employee volunteering, and fundraising campaigns.
Purpose Financial contributions, in-kind support, and expertise to enhance program impact and reach.
3. Government Funding:
Source: Grants from governmental bodies and agencies focused on human rights, social welfare, and anti-trafficking efforts.
Purpose: Support specific program components, policy advocacy, and sustainability initiatives.
4. Fee-for-Service (Future Potential
Source: Potential revenue from vocational training services offered to external beneficiaries outside our primary target group.
- **Purpose:** Generate supplementary income to support operational sustainability and program expansion.
**Value Creation and Impact:**
- **Social Impact:** Empowering survivors through holistic support leads to improved health outcomes, economic independence, and community integration.
- **Environmental Impact:** Minimizing the environmental footprint through digital platforms and sustainable practices in our operations.
- **Financial Sustainability:** Diversifying funding sources and leveraging partnerships ensure long-term operational continuity and scalability.
Our business model is designed to maximize social impact while ensuring financial sustainability, thereby creating lasting change for survivors of modern slavery and fostering supportive communities in Nigeria and beyond.
- Individual consumers or stakeholders (B2C)
Financial Sustainability Plan
Revenue Streams:*
1. Grants and Donations:*
Strategy: Secure sustained funding from international organizations, foundations, and philanthropic entities committed to human rights and social welfare.
Successes: Secured grants from business Foundation and ABC International for initial program launch and expansion phases. Ongoing partnerships with DEF Trust and GHI Fund for operational support.
2. Corporate Partnerships:
Strategy: Forge partnerships with businesses for CSR initiatives, employee engagement programs, and cause-related marketing campaigns.
Successes: Partnered with Essl foundationn for a CSR project contributing to vocational training and employment opportunities. Raised fund through corporate donations and in-kind contributions.
3. Government Funding:
Strategy: Pursue government grants and contracts focused on anti-trafficking efforts, social welfare, and human rights.
Successes: Received funding from the Ministry of Social Development for community outreach and awareness campaigns. Engaging in ongoing dialogues with national agencies for further support.
4. Fee-for-Service (Future Potential
Strategy: Explore opportunities to monetize vocational training services for external beneficiaries, potentially generating income to support operational sustainability.
Progress: Conducting market research and feasibility studies to assess demand and pricing models for fee-for-service offerings.
Financial Sustainability Evidence:**l
-Grant Success: Secured $10000 in funding from localFoundation and ABC International to launch and expand rehabilitation centers, implement vocational training programs, and conduct community outreach activities.
-Corporate Partnerships: Generated fund through partnerships with Chaze West African limited Corporation for vocational training initiatives, demonstrating the potential for sustained income through corporate engagement.
-Government Contracts: Received initial funding from the Ministry of Social Development for community sensitization programs, indicating potential for ongoing collaboration and funding support.
Strategic Planning:
Developed a multi-year financial sustainability plan outlining milestones for diversifying revenue streams and achieving budgetary self-sufficiency within the next five years.
By diversifying funding sources and leveraging strategic partnerships, our plan ensures that revenue streams align with operational needs, enabling continued impact and growth in our efforts to support survivors of modern slavery in Nigeria.
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