Rain & Tears
Walking for Freedom: A Pilgrimage of Purpose
The Freedom Challenge recently embarked on an extraordinary journey—walking the historic El Camino de Santiago to raise awareness and funds to set women and children on a pathway to freedom. Among the 44 participants was Jessica Whittle, Director of Freedom Challenge Africa, who shared her reflections on the Freedom Challenge podcast with host Tracy Daugherty.
Jessica’s journey with Freedom Challenge Africa began after years of anti-trafficking work in Central Asia. Forced to return home during the COVID-19 pandemic, she sought new opportunities to continue fighting human trafficking. When she learned about Freedom Challenge, she knew it was the right fit. Now, as director, she leads efforts to combat trafficking across Africa, overseeing projects that provide prevention, rescue, restoration, and development. One of these programs, Traffic Wise, is a week-long training designed to educate communities about human trafficking and equip them with tools to fight it. The program has already reached countries like Tanzania, Mozambique, Ghana, South Africa, and Zambia, spreading awareness and empowering individuals to take action.
During the Camino pilgrimage, Jessica was deeply moved by the passionate women who trained, fundraised, and sacrificed to support Freedom Challenge’s mission. She witnessed firsthand how these efforts transform lives—like that of Sandra, a young girl in Madagascar who, with the help of the Freedom Challenge-supported Perla Project, escaped child marriage. Her parents had planned to marry her off at just 14 years old, but thanks to intervention and education, Sandra was given the opportunity to stay in school. Now, she’s not only pursuing her education but also working in children’s ministry, using her voice to encourage other girls to seek a different future.
Beyond the physical challenge of walking hundreds of miles, the pilgrimage became a spiritual journey. The rain, exhaustion, and unpredictable conditions mirrored the resilience needed in the fight against human trafficking. Yet, in the midst of difficulty, Jessica and the other women experienced the beauty of God’s provision—whether it was through an unexpected umbrella on a stormy day, the generosity of fellow participants, or the simple encouragement of walking together in unity.
As Jessica reflected, “God will supply everything we need on our earthly journey.” The Camino was not just about walking—it was about trusting, sacrificing, and standing in solidarity for a cause greater than themselves. Each step taken was a declaration of hope and freedom for those who cannot yet walk their own path to liberation.
The Camino de Santiago may be over, but the journey to freedom continues. Will you join us? Whether through fundraising, participating in a challenge, or spreading awareness, every step taken brings us closer to a world where no woman or child is enslaved. Together, we walk for freedom.