Cincinnati, Ohio: True leadership is not about power, but about empowering others. When visionaries come together, they spark change that transcends borders. In a remarkable moment of collaboration, renowned serial entrepreneur, mentor, and angel investor Ivan Fernandes visited the Eyes Open International (EOI) Headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio, to meet with co-founders Harold and Dancy D’Souza.
Fernandes, a trailblazer with over three decades of experience in business innovation, has played a pivotal role in banking, payment solutions, M-government solutions, EdTech, and mobility. A passionate advocate for entrepreneurship, he has mentored countless startups, serving as a Founding Charter Member and Past President of TiE Dubai. He also founded Kanara Entrepreneurs, which nurtures business leaders from the Kanara region, and has established entrepreneurial cells in top educational institutions, including St. Aloysius Institute of Management, Christ University, and St. Joseph’s Institute of Management.
His visit to Eyes Open International highlights the power of collaboration in driving global impact.
A Celebration of Vision and Leadership
To honor Ivan and his wife, Renny Fernandes, Eyes Open International hosted an exclusive meet-and-greet dinner attended by esteemed leaders, including Dr. Yvan Demosthenes, Larry Harte, and Sr. Therese DelGino, Board Directors of EOI, Deepak D’Souza, Managing Director, LCD Global from Mumbai along with EOI co-founders Harold and Dancy D’Souza
This special gathering underscored the importance of building networks that drive social transformation. Eyes Open International, a global force in human rights advocacy, has been instrumental in empowering vulnerable populations and combatting human trafficking worldwide.
A Powerful Visit to the Underground Railroad Freedom Center
On Sunday, March 30, 2025, Ivan and Renny Fernandes visited the Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, a museum dedicated to the legacy of freedom, resilience, and human dignity. The visit was especially poignant as the couple explored the ‘Shine a Light’ exhibit, which features the harrowing yet inspiring journey of Harold D’Souza—a survivor-turned-advocate who has become a global voice for victims of human trafficking.
The Freedom Center, standing as a beacon of courage and justice, tells the stories of those who fought against oppression, both in history and in modern times. Walking through its halls, Ivan and Renny Fernandes were deeply moved by the exhibits that highlight the ongoing struggle for freedom and the resilience of the human spirit.
Among these stories, Harold D’Souza’s life stands as a testament to the power of survival and transformation. Once a victim of labor trafficking, Harold refused to let his past define him. Instead, he turned his pain into purpose, his struggles into strength, and co-founded Eyes Open International to ensure that no one else suffers the same fate. His journey from a survivor to an advocate recognized on global platforms, including the White House and the United Nations, is a story that continues to inspire millions.
Global Engagement for a Greater Cause
Fernandes’ visit to the U.S. was not only about leadership networking but also about taking part in a larger movement. He flew in from Dubai to attend the prestigious Liberator Awards 2025 in Columbus on March 29, 2025, celebrating the champions of human rights and justice. His stay in Cincinnati from March 27th to March 31st, 2025, provided an opportunity for deeper engagement with Eyes Open International’s mission.
Eyes Open International continues to expand its impact under the guidance of its dynamic global team, including:
Dr. Lara Wilken, Board President brings with her leadership with wisdom, empathy, and action creating lasting change. With her unwavering belief that Survivors Must Thrive, she is a guiding force in the fight against human trafficking, empowering voices that were once silenced to lead the way forward.
Tracy Mc Ginley, Board Vice President, has deep expertise in nonprofits, bylaws and governance, she is a powerhouse of change.
• Prince Manvendra Singh Gohil and Deepak Acharya, Board Directors based in India
• Rohan D’Souza, Treasurer, based in New York
• Hriday Raval, Asia Pacific Director, based in Ahmedabad, Gujarat – a key leader supporting Harold D’Souza in international initiatives
• Viona Dixon, Regional Director India, based in Vadodara, Gujarat
• Nirmal Kumar Upreti, Regional Director Nepal, based in Kathmandu
Their unwavering commitment ensures that Eyes Open International continues its mission to educate, prevent, and support survivors of human trafficking across the world.
A Legacy of Transformation
Ivan Fernandes’ visit to Eyes Open International and the Underground Railroad Freedom Center is a testament to the power of visionary leadership, collaboration, and a shared commitment to social justice. His expertise in fostering entrepreneurship and innovation resonates deeply with EOI’s approach—empowering survivors to rebuild their lives through education, awareness, and economic opportunities.
Harold D’Souza, a man of unbreakable spirit, has become an international symbol of hope and justice. His life’s mission is a call to action for communities, governments, and individuals worldwide to recognize the reality of modern-day slavery and join the fight against it.
Hope in Action: A Call to Empowerment
The visit of Ivan and Renny Fernandes is a reminder that true change begins with a single step, a bold vision, and a heart that dares to make a difference. The Underground Railroad Freedom Center, much like Eyes Open International, serves as a powerful reminder that while oppression still exists, so does the unyielding force of those who fight for justice.
As we move forward, let this moment serve as an inspiration for businesses, communities, and individuals to take action—because when great minds unite for a noble cause, the ripple effect can change the world. Freedom is not just a privilege; it is a right that every human being deserves.