Project iRISE
Project iRISE is a Canadian nonprofit organization registered under the number 736921537RR0001. Founded in 2020 by Rhonelle Bruder, a survivor of human trafficking, the organization focuses on empowering survivors and individuals at risk through skills development, leadership training, and community support.

History and Mission
Project iRISE emerged as a volunteer-led initiative to address systemic gaps in survivor support, particularly in removing tattoo branding associated with exploitation and providing pathways to economic stability. Its mission centers on fostering empowerment through survivor-designed programs, emphasizing peer mentorship and employability skills.

Programs
The organization's flagship Survivor Leadership Program, launched in 2021, combines coaching, group workshops, and peer-led mentorship over a year-long curriculum. It was funded in part by Ontario’s Anti-Human Trafficking Strategy (2020–2025) through the Ministry of Children, Community, and Social Services. The program aims to equip participants with leadership skills while addressing trauma-related barriers to reintegration.

Community Impact
Project iRISE gained early recognition for its crowdfunded efforts to provide free tattoo removal services for survivors. As a community-based nonprofit, it collaborates with partners to expand access to education and employment opportunities, prioritizing survivor autonomy in program design and advocacy.

[1] https://www.projectirise.org [2] https://www.projectirise.org/ourstory [3] https://causes.benevity.org/causes/124-736921537RC0001?lang=en [4] https://globalnews.ca/news/7458388/human-trafficking-project-irise/ [5] https://www.instagram.com/projectirise/p/Cgt8GowOz7D/