Meet Chong Kim

We recently connected with Chong Kim and have shared our conversation below.

Chong, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
When you begin to develop a relationship with yourself, discovering who you are, what you want for yourself everything else falls into place. Your confidence begins to grow and with that comes with boundaries and your self esteem becomes strong.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
For more than two decades, I’ve been deeply immersed in advocating against Child Sexual Exploitation and Human Trafficking. From 2003 to 2018, I served as a freelance Legal Advocate, lending my expertise to various cases involving domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Collaborating closely with law enforcement, private attorneys, and fellow case workers, I’ve contributed to efforts aimed at capturing predators and traffickers.

In 2005, my journey took a public turn as I began sharing my story to raise awareness about potential red flags, trauma-informed approaches, and resilience. My experiences eventually led to the creation of the acclaimed film “Eden,” co-written with a scriptwriter, which garnered multiple awards at SXSW in 2013.

Recognizing the power of film in educating and enlightening audiences about Human Trafficking, I embarked on the production of a feature film titled “Every 40 Seconds” (E40S). Drawing inspiration from my own life post-escape and my collaborative efforts with law enforcement, this project aims to shed light on the overlooked plight of American girls, particularly Indigenous, Latino, and African American youth, often marginalized and mischaracterized as “Endangered Youth” or “Runaways.”

As a survivor, I resonate with the narrative of the “Every 40 Second girl” – a teenager ensnared by a charismatic predator, trapped in a cycle of trauma, and struggling to express her experiences amidst societal neglect. Through “E40S,” I seek to explore the complexities of mental illness, trauma, and disassociation, offering insights into alternative coping mechanisms.

Building on the success of a proof-of-concept short film, which garnered over 14 international awards and widespread recognition, our focus now shifts towards realizing the full-length feature of “E40S.” Our ultimate vision extends to transforming this narrative into a compelling drama series, amplifying our advocacy and fostering deeper conversations on these critical issues.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
As a survivor, it’s crucial to recognize that you aren’t obligated to establish a nonprofit or become a public speaker. Many survivors have approached me expressing their hesitations, saying, “I don’t feel strong enough to share my story.” When I was encouraged to share my own experiences, I encountered numerous pros and cons that I hadn’t anticipated, including exploitation. In today’s society, particularly with the prevalence of social media and online culture, triggers abound, potentially impacting self-esteem. Without adequate support systems, the journey can be isolating, both in public speaking and in launching a nonprofit.

First and foremost, it’s essential to clarify your ‘WHY’ – why do you want to share your story? Who is your intended audience, and how do you aim to inspire them? Merely venting is different from empowering others to be vigilant. Additionally, I strongly recommend continuing therapy during the initial 6 months to 1 year of speaking engagements.

Secondly, concerning nonprofits, it’s imperative to grasp the fundamentals of business. Without careful planning and research, you risk exhaustion, resentment, and financial strain. Volunteering with an established nonprofit can provide valuable insight and stability.

Thirdly, seek guidance from a business coach or mentor with a track record of launching successful ventures, whether businesses or nonprofits. Never embark on these endeavors out of obligation or to appease others, including faith-based communities, as it may lead to resentment.

Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
I attribute much of my success to my faith in God. Through this faith, I’ve been guided to valuable people and resources that have enabled me to acquire skills, knowledge, and the patience necessary for success. I’m grateful for everyone who has crossed my path, regardless of whether their impact was positive or negative; each encounter has imparted valuable lessons that have shaped my journey.

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