In this powerful episode of the Freedom Challenge Online Podcast, host Tracy Daugherty sits down with Jessica Whittle, Director of Freedom Challenge Africa, to confront the global case of human trafficking — a crisis impacting nearly 50 million worldwide.

Together, they break down what trafficking truly looks like today: sexual exploitation, forced labor, domestic servitude, child marriage, organ harvesting, online exploitation, and the rise of scam centers. They talk openly about the vulnerabilities traffickers target — poverty, displacement, age, lack of opportunity — and the spiritual darkness driving this brutal industry.

But woven through the heaviness is deep hope.

Tracy and Jessica share the story of how Freedom Challenge began, the four pillars that shape the work (Prevent, Develop, Rescue, Restore), and how OM projects around the world are changing lives — from TrafficWise trainings in Africa to safe houses and long‑term restoration programs globally.

This conversation reminds every listener:
You cannot fix 50 million… but you can move toward one.
And when women pray, give, go, and challenge themselves on behalf of others, God multiplies it.

They also share exciting ways to get involved:
• The upcoming virtual global prayer event on February 8
• Freedom Challenge USA and Africa 2026 challenges
• Opportunities for short‑ and long‑term mission work

If you want to understand the depth of the issue AND the depth of God’s response through His people, this episode is for you.

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Watch the interview: https://youtu.be/F3hZFQpmJ3U

Read the blog: www.thefreedomchallenge.com/blogposts/2026/1/21/global-reality

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Want to learn more?
The Freedom Challenge US: thefreedomchallenge.com
Operation Mobilization USA: omusa.org
Instagram: @freedomchallengeusa / Facebook: @thefcusa

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This Season 6 opener centers on Human Trafficking Prevention Month and a posture of prayer. Host Ruth Paton‑Willett guides listeners to look to the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth (Psalm 121) and to the mission of Jesus in Isaiah 61—bringing good news, release to captives, and freedom to the oppressed. We reflect on January’s significance (from historic emancipation to a modern call for awareness), pray a Heart of Pilgrimage/Camino‑inspired liturgy, and consider what faithful action looks like: compassion for survivors, intercession for communities, and courageous hope that mercy is new every morning.
Call to action: Explore Freedom Challenge events and ways to engage—pray intentionally, challenge yourself, give generously, and stand with us against modern slavery.

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Watch the interview: https://youtu.be/Mvjnj_-S4eQ

Read the blog: www.thefreedomchallenge.com/blogposts/2026/1/7/prevention-month

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Want to learn more?
The Freedom Challenge US: thefreedomchallenge.com
Operation Mobilization USA: omusa.org
Instagram: @freedomchallengeusa / Facebook: @thefcusa

Support the show

Season 5 closes with host Tracy Daugherty and the Freedom Challenge team—Daria, Alyse, Ruth, and Brooklyn—celebrating and reminiscing on a year of sisterhood, prayer, and courageous action while previewing what’s ahead in 2026. The recurring theme throughout the conversation is the power of invitation and multiplication. Looking ahead to 2026, we announce five One-Day Challenges, two Virtual Prayer Gatherings, and a Mission Trip to Thailand. Stay tuned!

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