Restore NYC Partners with Rmrkblty's #Iam Remarkable

Introduction 

Restore NYC is a nonprofit organization that makes freedom real for survivors of trafficking in the U.S. Since 2009, it has served more than 2,800 adult survivors and people at risk, delivering long-term, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive interventions in the following three areas: housing, economic empowerment, and well-being (e.g., counseling and case management). 

Restore NYC realizes that job readiness classes alone—like writing resumes, interview preparation, and composing professional emails—are just one part of a survivor’s journey toward meaningful employment. Thriving in the workplace also requires confidence, self-advocacy, and emotional resilience. Restore NYC partners with Rmrkblty’s #IAmRemarkable workshop, empowering survivors of trafficking to recognize and build upon their strengths to navigate their careers with confidence.  

Organization and Initiative

Rmrkblty: #IAmRemarkable

This 90-minute workshop focuses on the importance of self-advocacy for participants in their personal and professional lives and equips them with skills to articulate their achievements.

The workshop is divided into three parts—

●               Discuss: Raise awareness of research on self-promotion and bias.

●               Practice: Develop the skill of speaking openly about individual accomplishments. 

●               Act: Reflect on the workshop and provide take-home exercises. 

Challenges and Metrics

The workshop addresses imposter syndrome, stereotypes, and cultural discomfort with self-advocacy.

For underrepresented groups, vocalizing achievements can feel impossible. For human trafficking survivors, learning how to advocate can feel like a daunting task. By highlighting the benefits of self-promotion, the workshop aims to close the leadership gap. 

Why #IAmRemarkable Is Part of the Solution 

Individuals who have faced employment barriers often experience self-doubt, questioning whether they have the skills to secure and sustain a job. They may also have concerns about gaps in employment or past involvement with the legal system. This workshop creates a supportive space to recognize their strengths, celebrate their achievements, and build the confidence and emotional resilience needed for their professional journey. 

Conclusion

Through facilitation of Rmrkblty’s #IAmRemarkable workshop, participants gain lifelong skills and personal growth that boosts their self-esteem and plays a critical role in their journey toward economic empowerment and long-term success.

About the authors

Michael Billet

Michael Billet, director of policy research for Employment Policy at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, keeps members and internal Chamber policy staff abreast of pending labor, immigration, and health care legislation, as well as federal regulatory and subregulatory activities. He is also responsible for planning the Chamber’s annual workplace and community wellness forum.

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