Minea* was just 15 when her life changed forever. Born into poverty in Phnom Penh, she quit school to work in a garment factory with her sister, hoping to help support her family. In 2018, a “friend” preyed on her vulnerability and convinced her to travel to China with the promise of marriage and a good job.

Instead, Minea was trafficked.

She was sold to a man who locked her in his house, where she endured repeated abuse. When she tried to escape and asked her broker for help, she was beaten, starved, and forced to marry another man. Again, she was locked up and abused.

This horrific pattern repeated itself three times.

Each time Minea tried to escape, she was betrayed, resold, or detained. Eventually, she was arrested by local police and imprisoned for four months as an “illegal immigrant.” After months of detainment, she was finally released to the Cambodian embassy. With nothing but the clothes on her back, she returned home broken and traumatized.

When Minea landed in Phnom Penh, Hagar welcomed her into the Home of Love, a safe place for women and girls rescued from human trafficking.

“My foster mother at the Home of Love is like my second mother. She gave me love and cared for me. For a long time, I lost my hope, trust, and love—and now I feel them again.” — Minea

At the Home of Love, Minea received medical care, food, clothing, and trauma counseling. Hagar caseworkers also supported her family with training and resources to ensure she could be reintegrated safely.

Her mother shared:

“I cannot thank Hagar enough for your support and what you have done to bring my daughter home safely.”

— Minea’s mother

Building a New Future

Minea continues to receive counseling and legal support. Hagar’s legal team has filed a case against the broker who trafficked her, though the investigation is ongoing. To reduce the risk of re-trafficking, Hagar also provides monthly food packages for her family, who lost jobs during the pandemic.

Today, Minea is taking steps toward independence. She works in a garment factory and spends her weekends in beautician classes, working toward her dream of one day opening her own salon.

“I know it will take years, but I am working hard toward my dream.”

— Minea

Minea’s journey is a story of unimaginable suffering—but also of resilience and restoration. With the support of the Home of Love, she is reclaiming her dignity and building a brighter future.

Read more about the Home of Love and how it restores lives in Cambodia

*Name & image changed for protection.