Dallas native Tonya Stafford is a survivor of human trafficking who has been using her voice for more than 10 years to help rescue, restore and stabilize victims of that heinous crime and keep them safe.
As a Black woman, what do you consider your superpowers to be?
My granddaughter says I have superpowers because I save so many young girls and women out of trafficking. She says, “That’s what Superwoman does, but Granny you’re Superwoman, a true visionary.”
What key qualities make you unique as an African American female leader?
[My key qualities] are transparency, honesty, sympathy, empathy and compassion; my ability to meet people where they are; my determination. I am [an] achiever. My sense of humor. My kids think I am so funny. [I am also a] reliable and persuasive communicator.
What encouraging piece of advice would you give to your younger self?
If you are going to fail, fail fast. Hurry up and fail so that you can get up, Tonya, and learn from that failure. If you fall, fall forward. That way you can brace yourself and get up quickly. You have so much to offer to this world. You will make an impact on this world. You belong here. Click here to continue.
