One Day: Hom’s Story

When 15-year-old Hom was brought to Rapha, she was furious. Hom had escaped violent physical and sexual abuse at her home by going with a young man who promised her work at a karaoke bar. She didn’t know that she would be forced to have sex with strangers at the bar. Without anyone to contact for help, she had been trapped there and trafficked for three years. Despite the persistent trauma, Hom had grown accustomed to her life at the karaoke bar and had developed chaotic but strong bonds with her abusers. 

Hom was angry with everyone at Rapha. She felt that they saw her as a victim, but she believed she was strong and independent. She yelled when they tried to talk to her. She refused to go to therapy or to school. She refused to take the medication offered to her for an infection she had contracted. 

The only activity Hom would engage in was art therapy. Despite her anger and resentment, she couldn’t resist using the paints, pencils, and crayons in the art therapy center. She created beautiful art that represented her trauma, her loss, and her resilience. Another girl in the program, Chariya, was also a gifted artist. The girls became friends and  Hom noticed that Chariya trusted the Rapha staff and that she had exciting plans for her future. Chariya told Hom that the staff would support her in her education and help her find true independence and freedom. 

As Hom’s friendship with Chariya grew, so did her acceptance and trust of the staff and care at Rapha. Her counselor helped her understand that she had been exploited at the karaoke bar, and that it was possible to find independence in a safe and healthy environment. Hom began to excel in her studies, and to make her own plans for the future. 

Hom’s story represents the experiences of hundreds of girls who have received care and treatment at Rapha.