"Who the SON sets free, is truly free." John 8:36
Vanessa Olivares is a remarkable survivor of human sex trafficking whose story of resilience and transformation inspires countless individuals. Born into a tumultuous situation, Vanessa aged out of foster care, finding herself navigating the challenges of life as a runaway youth. At just 20 years old, her life took a dark turn when she was drugged and forced into the harrowing world of sex trafficking. This painful chapter led to a cycle of incarceration, suffering the consequences of her circumstances in jail and prison, alongside repeated attempts at rehabilitation.
However, it was during her time behind bars that Vanessa discovered a glimmer of hope. In a desperate moment, she sought solace in her faith, reaching out to the only one who she felt could truly help her: Jesus. This spiritual awakening became the catalyst for her transformation, instilling in her a strong sense of purpose and a desire to reclaim her life.
After being released from prison in 2007, Vanessa committed herself to helping others who found themselves in the grips of exploitation and recidivism. She became not only a mother to four beautiful children but also a devoted wife, finding strength in her family as she rebuilt her life.
In 2020, alongside her sister Wanda Soto, Vanessa founded My Sister's Hope International an organization dedicated to supporting women incarcerated and those the community who are lost in the cycle of exploitation. Under her leadership, MHS has become a beacon of hope, offering resources, recovery programs, and a compassionate community to those in need.
Vanessa Olivares stands as a powerful testament to the human spirit's capacity for resilience and healing. Through her unwavering dedication, she continues to change lives, empowering women to break free from their past and forge a brighter future. Her journey from victimhood to advocacy serves as a powerful reminder that, with hope and support, it is possible to overcome even the darkest of circumstances.