ABOUT EMILY SANDERS

Founder & Executive Director, Connect 2 Change

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I am a survivor of human trafficking, and my life transformed the moment I realized that entrepreneurship was more than a way to earn income — it was a pathway to rebuild my identity, reclaim my power, and design a future I never thought possible.

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I was abandoned on the street while eight months pregnant. The safety and support I received at a maternity shelter marked the beginning of my healing. From there, I rebuilt my life piece by piece: securing housing, reconnecting with family, and stepping into a new found determination and hope.

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Entrepreneurship became the turning point.
It pushed me to grow in ways I never imagined.
It taught me that personal development is the engine of lasting change.
And it taught me that when we take ownership of our mindset, we take ownership of our future.

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As I immersed myself in Sacramento’s startup ecosystem, I found mentors, community, and opportunity. I my calling: to create a pathway for women like me.

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That calling has become Connect 2 Change — a survivor-led organization helping women escape sex trafficking and rebuild their lives -- through business training, personal development, and real investment in their microenterprises.

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Today, I am proud to have all "the things" that qualify me to pursue this rewarding work. I am a certified ICF Master Life Coach, DISC Practitioner, domestic violence peer counselor, entrepreneur and executive. I have partnered with organizations including Women’s Empowerment, Synbyo, CalEmpowered, and the California Mobility Center to lead workshops and empower women across the region.

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What I believe in and value is clear:

✅ EXCELLENCE
✅ ENTREPRENEURSHIP
✅ PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
✅ WOMEN SURVIVORS
✅ EMPOWERMENT THROUGH RESILIENCE
✅ UNLOCKING POTENTIAL IN GROUPS & INDIVIDUALS
✅ CREATING LASTING POSITIVE CHANGE

💖 YOU CAN CREATE PATHWAYS TO FREEDOM WITH ME

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If you are interested in collaborating, supporting this movement, or inviting me to speak, I welcome the opportunity to connect. I love speaking about empowerment and new beginnings! ​

People don’t rise alone. We rise together.