Amilia’s Light: Empowering Survivors of Human Trafficking

January 13, 2025

2pm - 4pm

Michelle Luhrmann, founder of Amilia’s Light, will present her organization’s work on raising awareness of the global epidemic of human trafficking as well as supporting the mission of a sister program in Uganda that rehabilitates victims.  Her story began with the tragic death of her 5 year old daughter, Amilia Rose, in a home explosion of May 24, 2003.  With funds donated to the Luhrmann family in Amilia’s name, as well as help from a local pastor in Medfield, MA, bequests were made to different organizations that help children in the Boston MetroWest area as well as to a non-governmental agency in Uganda, named Destiny Women.  In 2009 / 2010, the family provided funds to support five young women through this rehabilitation program which was named after Amilia.  In 2014, Amilia’s Light received its 501c3 status to continue this important work.

The relationship with Destiny Women has continued to grow and evolve.  Together, both organizations remain committed to educating and empowering survivors of the sex trafficking trade.  In Uganda, women are identified, educated, provided counseling services and training in trades to allow for independent living.  Locally, Michelle does community presentations, raises funds, and started a pilot high school ambassador program in Medfield, MA for students to learn about the types of exploitation and trafficking prevention as well as presented workshops with UNICEF to educate students on how social norms lead to trafficking and vulnerability.  She hopes to expands such programs to the South Shore through fund raising and interest in this important topic.  Amilia Rose’s light still shines around the world as a beacon of hope.