Eastlake, Ohio: A survivor. A fighter. A dreamer. Harold D’Souza is proof that it’s not how you start, it’s how you rise.
On a powerful day of outreach and education, Harold D’Souza, President and Co-Founder of Eyes Open International, stood tall not as a victim of human trafficking, but as a beacon of resilience and hope. At the SRO/SSO Human Trafficking Awareness event, hosted by the Alliance Against Human Trafficking and the GFWC Eastlake Ohio Women’s Club, Harold delivered a keynote speech that left audiences deeply moved, inspired, and empowered.
Born in India and trafficked to the United States, Harold D’Souza’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. From surviving modern-day slavery to becoming an international human rights hero, his voice has echoed across 49 U.S. States and over 30 countries. On this special Bridge Day Focus on Outreach, Harold stood before an esteemed audience of law enforcement officials, Department of Homeland Security leaders, Detectives,Healthcare providers and Survivor-advocates, sharing a message of strength born through suffering.
“Take four things from my journey,” Harold said passionately. “Be happy, think positive, never quit, and believe in yourself.” This simple yet powerful mantra has become his signature message, drawn from the ashes of adversity.
As he reflected on his own darkest moments, Harold boldly declared, “I failed as a parent, protector, provider, and as a parent.” But with profound humility and wisdom, he explained how he turned those failures into strengths, transforming the four P’s into his foundation: Passion, Purpose, Power, and Prayers.
Harold’s keynote was not only a personal testimony but also a call to action. “Survivors should be mapped after one year, two years, and five years to ensure they are self-sustainable, emotionally healthy, and financially free,” he emphasized. His innovative approach challenges conventional systems and places dignity, empowerment, and sustainability at the forefront of survivor care.
The event featured key figures in the fight against human trafficking, including; Lisa Imondi, Founder of Her STORY to Share, Kwami Adoboe-Herrera, Founder of Teleios, Inc., Jomel Spurlock, DHS Victim Assistance Program Specialist, Jonathan Barry, Senior Engagement Manager for DHS’s Blue Campaign, Detective John Morgan (Retired), Founder of JL Morgan Solutions LLC, Dr. Lara Wilken and Tracy Mc Ginley, founders of Seeds of Empowerment.
Their powerful presentations were united by a common mission: prevention, protection, and empowerment.
Harold was quick to express his gratitude. “Thank you to Kathy Goellnitz, Carolyn Kinkoph, and Jenna Bing, Co-Founders of the Alliance Against Human Trafficking, for trusting me to share my journey and message. You are creating real change in communities.”
From a man who once had nothing, no identity, no money, no freedom; Harold has become everything: a father, a global speaker, a policymaker, and a force for change. His life story is not just one of survival; it is a living legacy. Today, Bollywood and Hollywood biopics are in the making to bring Harold D’Souza’s courageous journey to the silver screen, ensuring his message reaches millions and inspires generations.
From chains to change, Harold is not just rewriting his story, he’s igniting a global movement.
For more information about Eyes Open International or to invite Harold D’Souza to speak, please visit www.eyesopeninternational.org or email info@eyesopeninternational.org.