This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. When news reports show the arrest of a human trafficker and their victims finding freedom in the United States, Americans ask, “How did that happen?” Catalleya, through their own story, will demystify the silent trade of young people in our own backyard and challenge society to find one way to respond to the problem.

Catalleya Storm is a junior at Wright State University studying political science and business management and aspires to further study law and criminal justice. A human-trafficking survivor, Catalleya focuses their passion on abolishing human trafficking in their lifetime. Catalleya is the founder and president of the student organization Generation Freedom Makers to raise awareness among Ohio's universities. As a writer, philanthropist, survivor and abolitionist, Catalleya strives to educate and inspire others to create brighter present and future.

About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)