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Devin: What is your superpower?
Steph: I think it's so important that we see the value in people, that we see people. I think that something that's been developed in me, is to see people and to honor them and to see their humanity.
In today's episode of Superpowers for Good, I had the privilege of speaking with Steph Page, the Executive Director and Co-Founder of Stories Foundation. Steph's pioneering approach to addressing human trafficking through business caught my attention, and I believe it will inspire you too.
Steph introduced us to an extraordinary project — the Storyteller Café. This isn't just any café; it's a beacon of hope in the fight against human trafficking. "We believe in using business for good," Steph explained. The café serves as a community hub where every purchase helps combat this grave issue. From locally sourced coffee to boutique items crafted by local artisans, each transaction supports the cause.
What sets Storyteller Café apart is its dual purpose. Not only does it raise awareness about human trafficking, but it also provides tangible support to survivors. The establishment offers job training, employment opportunities, and even housing in the form of apartments above the café. This holistic support system is crucial for survivors embarking on their new lives.
The idea of integrating business with social impact resonates deeply with me. As Steph highlighted, this approach allows everyone to participate in the solution, moving beyond traditional donations. It's about creating sustainable change through everyday actions.
As we wrapped up our conversation, I was moved by the potential of such innovative models to make a real difference. The Storyteller Café is more than a place for coffee; it's part of a larger narrative of empowerment and recovery for those who have endured unimaginable hardships.
Join me in applauding Steph and the Stories Foundation for their visionary work. Their approach not only changes lives but also redefines how we can use our businesses to support and uplift our communities.
AI Episode Summary
1. The show introduces Stephanie Page, a social entrepreneur and nonprofit leader working on anti-human trafficking efforts.
2. Stephanie discusses the Stories Foundation's effort to build the Storyteller Café, which aims to raise awareness about human trafficking, support survivors, and engage the community through the sale of food, coffee, and boutique items.
3. The café will also serve as a supportive space for survivors, offering jobs, job training, and housing through three apartments located above the café.
4. The project aims to create a community space that can also function as a large event space for raising awareness about human trafficking.
5. Stephanie emphasizes that human trafficking often involves exploitation through seemingly trustworthy relationships rather than abduction, targeting vulnerable individuals based on their needs.
6. The approach to aiding victims involves working with law enforcement and the judicial system, as well as providing rehabilitation and long-term support.
7. The challenge of finding immediate safe housing for trafficking victims is highlighted, showing the complexity and urgency of responding to survivors' needs.
8. A successful story is shared about an insurance agent who recognized signs of trafficking in a client and helped her escape her trafficker, emphasizing the importance of community awareness and intervention.
9. Stephanie reflects on her superpower: seeing and valuing the humanity in others, and the impact of listening and engaging with empathy.
10. The segment ends with a call to action for viewers to support the Stories Foundation by purchasing bracelets that fund the construction of the Storyteller Café, reinforcing the message that everyone's story matters.
How to Develop Seeing Humanity As a Superpower
Steph's superpower is "seeing humanity." She excels in recognizing and honoring the intrinsic value of individuals, which is essential in her work with survivors of human trafficking. She emphasizes the importance of listening to people's stories, seeing their worth, and making them feel valued and acknowledged. This ability helps her create impactful connections and support recovery and empowerment for those she helps.
Illustrative Anecdote
During an awareness event, Steph noticed a woman who seemed eager to talk amidst the busy setting. Despite the event's demands, Steph chose to engage deeply with this woman, learning about her experiences with unhealthy relationships potentially akin to trafficking. By dedicating time to this individual, Steph provided a safe space for her to share her pain and story. This interaction highlights how Steph's ability to see and respond to humanity can make a profound difference in individual lives.
Tips for Developing "Seeing Humanity" as a Personal Strength
Trust Your Gut: Pay attention to your instincts about others' needs.
Lean In: Don't dismiss your feelings; instead, engage more deeply with people.
Ask Questions: Show interest in others' lives by asking more about their experiences.
Create Space: Allow time in your interactions for others to express themselves and feel valued.
Listen Actively: Focus on understanding others' stories without the need to solve their problems immediately.
By following Steph's example and advice, you can make "seeing humanity" a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.
Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!
Guest Profile
Steph Page (she/her):
Executive Director and Co-Founder, Stories Foundation
About Stories Foundation: Stories Foundation is a nonprofit in Minnesota fighting human trafficking and related issues through social impact business, awareness education and community engagement.
Our why is to further justice for every person by inspiring communities, influencing culture and implementing action.
Website: www.storiesfoundation.org
X/Twitter Handle: @storiesfoundation
Company Facebook Page: fb.com/storiesfoundation
Other URL: storiesfoundation.org/your-story-matters-campaign
Biographical Information: Stephanie Page is the Executive Director and Co-Founder of Stories Foundation. Stories is a not-for-profit organization in Minneapolis, Minnesota that engages communities to fight human trafficking by using business to bring awareness about trafficking and support the work through fundraising. Steph believes every story has value and that by embracing our own story and being willing to step out and share it with others, we are taking the necessary steps toward changing the stories of injustice in our communities. Steph and Stories Foundation have been featured on Kare11 and KSTP as well as a variety of podcasts and newspaper articles.
X/Twitter Handle: @stephaniempage
Personal Facebook Profile: fb.com/StephMPage
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/stephaniempage/
Instagram Handle: @stephmpage
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Business for Good: How Storyteller Café Combats Human Trafficking