Tell us a little about your organization. – Disrupting Traffick (disruptingtraffick.org) is an anti-trafficking agency in Lincoln. We were founded as an outreach organization but quickly learned that we needed to offer tangible support and fill specific gaps in our community’s efforts to end trafficking. Traffickers exploit the vulnerable circumstances that many women in our community are facing. By offering a Resource Center and Safe House, we are helping fill these gaps.

How did you get started in the business? – In 2011, the first trafficking survivor I ever met was a Zambian girl with purple braids. I shared my story of sexual assault for the first time publically in front of several hundred Zambian women and girls. I will never forget walking out of the auditorium to her sitting alone on a rock. She said “your story is my story”. Except her story wasn’t my story. But, at that moment, I knew I had to do something. I think I unexpectedly walked into my calling that day.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? – In 2024, I was invited to be a keynote speaker for the National Center on Sexual Exploitation’s Global Summit. I was able to speak about how technology is changing to influence trafficking in ways we could’ve never imagined. The summit was attended by attorney generals from all over the country, UN delegates, and leaders from across the world. It was truly an honor to represent Disrupting Traffick and my work to fight trafficking.

Tell us a little about your family. – My husband and I have three little boys that keep us entertained and very busy. We have extended family in my hometown of Sioux Falls, SD and in Lincoln.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Sitting on a beach, snorkeling and finding sea turtles is a perfect day for me. When in town, coffee and thrifting is relaxation.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – My staff didn’t realize that I enjoy painting. Blending colors using acrylic or oil paints has been a hobby of mine.

Who inspires you? – The survivors that we work with daily. Seeking services is just one of many steps to rebuilding their lives.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – Your experience has uniquely qualified you for where you are at right now.

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Trailblazer. I have never shied away from finding justice for others.

If you had a theme song, what would it be? – “Dark Horses” by Switchfoot.

Which talent would you most like to have? – Piano, I am able to play by ear but I would love to be able to play from sheet music.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – Music. I was in a band with my husband at 18.

What is your favorite podcast? – I really like the Blurry Creatures podcast.

What is your favorite song? – I love too many songs to pick just one but 70’s rock is at the top of the list.

What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? – Momo’s has the best butternut squash fusilli and tiramisu.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – Whitney Houston is an icon.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – My email is brooke@disruptingtraffick.org.