MGA Intern Katelin Lawrie Reflects on Talitha Kum’s Celebration of the International Day of Prayer and Awareness Against the Trafficking of Humans

“Siamo Tutti Speranza” (‘we are hope’) was an apt rallying cry for the young people involved in Talitha Kum’s **International Day of Prayer and Awareness Against the Trafficking of Humans (**IDPAAHT) 2026.

I was sent as a youth representative from the Oceania region, alongside representatives from all over the world, including Japan, Botswana, France, Brazil and Lebanon, and more. It was powerful to come together as youth from all over the world to update, engage and inspire each other, and to send us each home with a renewed vigour in our hearts.

The week started with some of the delegates attending the Pope’s address, where they were able to speak to the Pope and enlighten him of the work we’re doing. With Pope Francis having been a steadfast supporter of Talitha Kum, Pope Leo shares his enthusiasm.

The youth were all given an opportunity to present on their regions and explain the work they are doing to combat Human Trafficking. From women’s empowerment workshops to parish and school information sessions to legal research grants, I was so inspired and empowered to come back to my community and enliven our efforts. We undertook a Walk for Humanity through Rome, where we heard about the history of slavery in the city, and reflected on what history could teach us about modern slavery today. We also participated in a candlelight ceremony, where hundreds of friends and strangers lit the fire of hope and justice in their hearts, and heard from a survivor of human trafficking in a heartfelt and authentic expression of hope in darkness.

Other activities, such as human trafficking workshops, survivor testimony readings, and a livestream relay focused on bringing the message out into the world about the issues of Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery. We ventured out on a rainy Saturday to undertake a protest and demonstration, to voice our anger, and show our commitment to the dignity of every person. We shouted, “peace begins with dignity”, “no childhood should be stolen”, and “siamo tutti Speranza”, drawing crowds of strangers to listen to our message.

The week concluded on Sunday February 8th as we marked the Feast Day of Saint Josephine Bakhita, herself a former slave. On this day, we walked to Saint Peter’s Square and watched Pope Leo XIV give his address, again emphasising the right of each person to freedom and dignity.

We each take home with us a light burning in our hearts to bring hope to our communities. Young people are integral to the fight against human trafficking. We are hungry for justice. We are angry, enlivened, and passionate. Most importantly, we are hope.

Katelin Lawrie, MGA Intern