Unshaken: Meherun’s Path to Power

Meherun was just seventeen—a bright and ambitious young woman living in a modest village. On what seemed like an ordinary day, she set out to submit a school project, unaware that her resilience would soon be tested in unimaginable ways.

While on her way, she encountered a neighbour’s tenant—a woman carrying a young child and appearing visibly distressed. The woman pleaded with Meherun to accompany her on a journey. Though hesitant—mindful of her schoolwork—Meherun’s kind heart could not ignore the mother’s desperation. Moved by concern for the child’s wellbeing, she agreed to go with her.

Their destination kept extending—first to a nearby town, then further still. Wanting to remain responsible, Meherun informed her family that she would return late. Trusting the woman, she agreed once again.

That decision changed everything.

Upon arrival in a bustling city, Meherun was offered water. Moments later, she lost consciousness. When she awoke, she was no longer in her home state. Fear and confusion overwhelmed her. She was eventually taken to a densely populated area—unknown and far from home. It was there, amidst unfamiliar streets and unfamiliar faces, that Meherun’s nightmare began: she had been sold into a brothel.

Locked inside a multi-storey building, far from everything she knew, the weight of betrayal sank in. Her heart broke—but her spirit did not.

Day after day, she was forced to endure the unimaginable. Yet even in the darkest moments, Meherun clung to hope. Her resolve did not falter.

One day, a visitor recognised the pain in her eyes. Moved by compassion, he helped her escape. She fled to another city—alone, penniless, but free.

Still, her battle was far from over. She had no resources to seek justice—no money for legal aid, and no one to represent her.

That’s when we stepped in.

Through our support, Meherun applied to the District Legal Services Authority for free legal counsel and victim compensation. We stood by her as she navigated the long and difficult road to justice.

Refusing to let her past define her, Meherun resumed her education and is now pursuing her graduation. She is also raising her child with pride and determination.

Her journey from victim to survivor is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of resilience. 

Brick by brick, she is reclaiming her life and standing strong for others whose voices are yet to be heard.

Her story is a powerful reminder: no matter how deep the darkness, the human spirit has the power to rise, resist, and rebuild.