Anna’s Story
Around the world, gender-based violence remains one of the most pervasive and devastating human rights violations of our time. In recognition of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on November 25 and the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, CWFL is sharing the stories of women whose lives have been shaped by violence, resilience, and courage.
These narratives—offered with care, consent, and respect—shine a light on the lived realities too often silenced. By elevating their voices, we aim to foster awareness, deepen compassion, and mobilize collective action toward a world where every woman is safe, valued, and free.
All of the stories shared can also be found at TheSCARFProject.org.
When Anna* became a mother at just 19, she dreamed of giving her baby a safe and loving start in life. But as a single mother in Bucharest, with little support from her parents and no stable income, no money for rent or for her baby's milk, she was desperately vulnerable. During the first year of the pandemic, some high school colleagues reached out to her. They promised her help and “safe work from home” just by video chatting online, offering quick money with no risk. For Anna, exhausted and anxious about how to feed her infant and pay for her rent, it sounded like a lifeline.
Instead, it became a trap. They helped her set up a bank account and created a video chat account in her name, but kept complete control of both. All of the income went to them. Whenever Anna refused to appear on camera, she was threatened and beaten. Isolated by lockdowns, cut off from friends, and terrified for her child’s safety, she endured a year of exploitation that only ended in August 2021 when her parents noticed her continuous tiredness, irritability, and addiction to drugs. They called the Police, and a case was opened. In time, Anna's parents reached out to an organization that helps women escape trafficking situations. Their team provided emergency shelter, legal support, and trauma counseling. Slowly, Anna began to rebuild her life and her confidence as a mother.
Today, Anna has finished her high school studies, a milestone she once thought impossible. Now she is preparing to train as an advocate, using her own experience to warn and guide other young women who might be vulnerable to traffickers.
But Anna’s story is not unique. Across Romania, traffickers continue to target women like her: young mothers, students, and girls without strong family support or in vulnerable situations. The pandemic only made this worse because traffickers have found new ways of exploitation in situations that seem legal.
*Name changed to protect real identity.
As part of our commitment to ending gender-based violence, CWFL is raising awareness to #EndViolenceAgainstWomen through the The SCARF Project—a global campaign and fundraiser running November 25 to December 10. Through this initiative, CWFL will continue to provide programming and funding support for CWFL Fellows who are working to address violence. Your gift helps us expand this work and continue equipping women leaders who stand on the front lines of justice and healing.
Support the movement and make a donation at www.thescarfproject.org.
