TW: Rape and sexual abuse

This conversation was the most open and vulnerable conversation I have had thus far. I spoke to Monique Burke - founder of WOW Toronto, an empowerment centre for women of diverse races, cultures, ages, socio-economic situations, and sexual orientations who have survived rape, sexual violence, sexual harassment, or any form of gender-based violence.

Monique is a rape survivor who shared her story with me about what transpired one afternoon when she was only 15 years old. The trauma of the event led Monique to create a survival program and a safe place for women to share their story and overcome the trauma of rape or sexual abuse. I also had the opportunity to share the story of my sexual abuse when I was very young and the effects it has had on my adulthood experiences.

Future plans for WOW Toronto are to have a safe haven for women where they can access services to help them on their healing journey.

If you would like to join in the conversation use #WhoMovedMyBirkin on all socials.

For support - womensaid.org; rapecrisis.org.uk; relate.org.uk

WOW Toronto - wowtoronto.org/

IG: wow_toronto