COLUMBUS, OH – March 29, 2025 – In a momentous achievement, Eyes Open International (EOI) has been voted among the Top 4 in America in the category of “Organization of the Year” at the prestigious Liberator Awards 2025. Founded by renowned advocate Theresa Flores of The SOAP Project (Save Our Adolescents from Prostitution), the Liberator Awards celebrate individuals and organizations making a profound impact in the fight against human trafficking. This Grammy-style event, set to take place in Columbus, Ohio, is a beacon of recognition for tireless warriors committed to the eradication of modern-day slavery.
Harold D’Souza’s journey from victim to victor is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. His transformation from slavery to a global advocate for human rights proves that courage and perseverance can turn adversity into empowerment.
Expressing his pride and gratitude, Prince Manvendra Singh Gohil, Board Director of Eyes Open International, shared his heartfelt sentiments:“As a member of the Board of Directors of Eyes Open International, I am extremely proud to know that this organization has been nominated as one of the Top 4 finalists for the Liberator Award 2025 in the ‘Organization of the Year’ category. Being part of this prestigious organization has literally opened my eyes to the issues of human trafficking, slavery, and bondage. It has given me further encouragement to spread awareness and education among different stakeholders to help eliminate these social evils. I extend my congratulations to all Board members on this victory, with a reminder that in unity, there is strength—our world must come together to fight against these common injustices.”
Founded by Harold D’Souza, a globally respected survivor-advocate and numerous award recipient, Eyes Open International has been a lighthouse of hope for countless victims and survivors. Reflecting on this significant milestone, Harold D’Souza emphasized: “In my lens, every individual, organization, law enforcement agency, faith-based institution, and community member fighting for freedom is a warrior and a winner. Eyes Open International’s journey in empowering our vulnerable population is a pure reflection of our dedicated, caring, and resilient Board Members. This victory belongs not just to EOI, but to the victims, survivors, and community members who inspire us every day.”
D’Souza extended special gratitude to the dedicated EOI Board Directors, whose unwavering commitment has fueled this journey: Sr. Therese DelGino, Dr. Lara Wilken, Prince Manvendra Singh Gohil, Dr. Ivan A. Fernandes, Larry Harte, Tracy G. McGinley, Deepak Acharya, Dr. Yvan Demosthenes, and Rohan D’Souza. Their relentless efforts, alongside a global network of supporters, have been instrumental in EOI’s transformative impact.
The Liberator Awards 2025 recognize not only an organization’s achievements but also the passion and perseverance behind its mission. Eyes Open International’s nomination stands as a powerful acknowledgment of its advocacy, survivor empowerment programs, and commitment to dismantling the chains of human trafficking worldwide.
As the world gathers to celebrate this landmark achievement, Harold D’Souza’s journey remains a living testament to resilience, hope, and transformation. From the depths of bondage to the heights of global advocacy, his story is a reminder that every survivor has the power to rise, every voice can inspire change, and every effort to combat human trafficking brings the world one step closer to justice and freedom.