Shivani*, Aruna Project

India | Sex Trafficking | Artisan | 60 drawing hours

Shivani*’s (*Pseudonym) journey to freedom began in the depths of the Red Light Area, where Aruna Project first met her. Trapped in exploitation, she was offered something she never thought possible—a way out. With their support, she stepped onto a new path, leaving behind a life of bondage for one of safety, healing, and hope.

Through Aruna’s holistic approach—safe housing, trauma counseling, life skills training, and dignified employment—Shivani found the strength to rebuild. After completing their paid apprenticeship program, she earned a job in their freedom business, where she’s been thriving since November 2024. Though healing is lifelong, her courage shines through every step forward. She is free—and her story is just beginning.

Golden cracks trace her shoulder and neck—an artistic nod to kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold. Like kintsugi, which highlights beauty in brokenness, Shivani’s journey reflects strength, resilience, and dignity rising from pain.

The Aruna Project sells athleisure products and is dedicated to empowering survivors of human trafficking through sustainable freedom. By providing safe housing, trauma counseling, life skills training, and dignified employment, Aruna equips women with the resources they need to rebuild their lives. Through their freedom businesses, survivors gain long-term financial independence, breaking the cycle of exploitation for good.

Thank you Aruna Project for the opportunity to do this amazing commission.