About Us
Major Ray Lamont – Territorial Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking (MSHT) Response Coordinator
Who are you?
I have been an officer for close to twenty years and have served in Corps and Social, as a Divisional Youth Secretary, and as an overseas officer. In addition to my current role, I am also the Vice Chair for our International MSHT Response Council and I am the Caribbean and North American MSHT Zonal Response Coordinator. I have my Anti-Human Trafficking Certificate from Vanguard University, was involved in EU sponsored Advance MSHT Training in the Netherlands, and have a Masters of Slavery and Liberation from the University of Nottingham. I have also had vast front line opportunities in MSHT ministry in Canada, Bangladesh, Italy, and Greece. My four years in Greece, working in front line MSHT response and development work and refugee response and development work, were the most impactful and life changing for me.
Why are you passionate about MSHT response work?
One of my favourite stories in the Bible is how God delivered Israel out of slavery and into His freedom for them. I love this! I love how God has not created us to be slaves to people, to sin, to our flesh, to systems, and so on. In every sense, He has created us to be free and He has set us free. In so many ways, I want that freedom for all. Galatians 5:1 (The Message) – “Christ has set us free to live a free life. So take your stand! Never again let anyone put a harness of slavery on you.”
What is your hope for MSHT response work in the Territory?
I have many hopes for MSHT response work throughout our Territory – too many to share here. My biggest hope is to see an entire organization mobilized through awareness, education, and training to actively engage in the fight for freedom whether it is through prevention activities, protection focuses, outreach, the provision of survivor recovery services, and / or advocacy.
Contact: THQ-MSHT@salvationarmy.ca
Major Sandra Rowsell – Divisional Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking (MSHT) Response Advocate
British Columbia Division
Who are you and why are you passionate about MSHT response work?
I have been an Officer for 18 years serving in Church and Family Services Ministries in Ontario, New Brunswick and British Columbia. I currently live in Richmond BC and serve as the Divisional Secretary for Women's Ministries, Divisional Family Services Consultant and Modern Slavery Human Trafficking Response Advocate.
I am grateful for the opportunity to be involved with others who are fighting against Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking. I want to broaden my knowledge of Modern Slavery Human Trafficking and work alongside others to bring an end to it. In my involvement in Family Services, I have met with people who are and have been exploited, as well as Temporary Foreign workers, who are afraid to speak out about their circumstances for fear of losing their jobs. The Bible tells us to love our neighbors. Loving others takes action. To do this we need to show our love to others by advocating for those involved in modern slavery and human trafficking and helping them find the resources they need to help change their lives.
Contact: BC-MSHT@salvationarmy.ca
Kathy Blindenbach - Divisional Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking (MSHT) Response Advocate
Prairies and Northern Territories Division – Alberta
Who are you and why are you passionate about MSHT response work?
As a chaplain with The Salvation Army - Community Services in Calgary, I have always been passionate about helping others to explore and develop a rich spiritual life to support positive life changes. In this work, I have come alongside many women who have lived experience of MSHT and have learned much from them about this exploitation and its effects. I am excited to dig deeper into this specific work to inform, equip, prevent, resource and empower people to fight against all forms of MSHT across the AB-NT division.
What is your hope for MSHT response work in the Alberta-Prairies and Northern Territories Division?
I dream of a time when modern slavery and human trafficking no longer exists in Canada. In the meantime, we can rally advocates who are already working to respond to MSHT and partner with other grassroots groups in Alberta and the Northern Territories to further the work of ending MSHT. Together we can know the neighbours in our own communities who are experiencing vulnerabilities to or are already being exploited through MSHT and empower them to overcome their circumstances. To do this, we will equip ourselves to provide prevention and support resources.
Contact: ABNT-MSHT@salvationarmy.ca
Dianna Bussey - Divisional Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking (MSHT) Response Advocate
Prairies and Northern Territories Division
Who are you and how did you get involved in MSHT response work?
I am a social worker within the Salvation Army Correctional & Justice Services in Winnipeg, Manitoba and am currently serving as the Executive Director. I became aware and involved in anti-oppression and restorative justice work early in my career through my education at Booth University College. I then became keenly aware of exploitation through journeying with individuals who had been exploited and their families, reaching out to traffickers and exploiters, and partnering with the colleagues of the agencies and systems that respond to exploitation. This has been my passion - fighting to end modern slavery and human trafficking in all forms.
What is your hope for MSHT response work in the Prairies and Northern Territories Division?
Exploitation through modern slavery and human trafficking happens across this Division. I envision our Territorial Fight For Freedom Strategy being lived out through a collaborative seamless response and engagement to prevent, address, and support those affected by MSHT.
Contact: PRA-MSHT@salvationarmy.ca
Stephen Moorgen - Saskatchewan Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking (MSHT) Response Facilitator
Prairies and Northern Territories Division – Saskatchewan
Who are you?
I am a father who has three biological sons as well as two foster children that I raise. I have worked previously in law enforcement for thirteen years, in labor and employment relations, investigations of harassment as well as workplace suicide as a result of harassment and discrimination. In addition, I also had considerable experience working with issues related to forced labour practices within the province. Most recently, before coming aboard, I taught at a post-secondary institution. Oh yeah - I also pastored for a few years as well.
What is your hope for MSHT response work in the Saskatchewan?
One of my favorite verses in the Bible is James 1:27 “Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to allow the world to corrupt you”. This is my reason and passion for the work that I have committed to. I want to stand up and give voice to those that don’t yet have a voice.
Coming aboard, from an outside perspective, brings a unique opportunity to look at programs that exist, or need to be created, to address gaps between services. I look forward to working with the team and the Army to address these gaps and create resource for all affected by this issue and drawing upon my past networks to help deal with this issue with a cross collaborative approach.
I am excited that within this position and within the Army, I get to use all my past experience and skill sets under one banner to contribute towards the mission of the MSHT and the Salvation Army.
Contact: SK-MSHT@salvationarmy.ca
Tyrone McKenzie - Territorial Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking (MSHT) Response Advocate
Who are you and how did you get involved in MSHT response work?
I am currently the Program Coordinator at Bethany Home, an emergency transitional home for 12–18-year-old youth in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. I became aware of the reality of sexual exploitation in Canada through our local church and the awareness campaign from Defend Dignity. I served on the advisory team of Defend Dignity for 10 years and am so grateful to this organization and to the courageous and resilient survivors I have met.
What is your hope for MSHT response work in the Prairies and Northern Territories Division?
While women across Canada are impacted and are greatest at risk of trafficking and exploitation, this is also a men’s issue. I am convinced that men need to step up and become personally involved in the lives of other men to challenge one another regarding the viewing and purchasing of sex.
In addition to this, some of my best friends, mentors and colleagues come from the Indigenous community, and have all been affected by concerns related to colonialism, racism, and exploitation. I want to bring awareness and prevention to the commodification of women, the reality of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls in our province, and the purchasing of sex in Saskatoon and across Saskatchewan.
Contact: Tyrone.McKenzie@salvationarmy.ca
Janith Rajamanthri - Territorial Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking (MSHT) Response Advocate
Who are you and how did you get involved in MSHT response work?
I am currently the Diversion Program Supervisor (Sex Buyer Accountability Program) within the Salvation Army Correctional & Justice Services in Winnipeg, Manitoba. I completed my B.A. in Criminal Justice at the University of Winnipeg. I came to the Salvation Army with experience working in roles as a Probation Officer and as a Correctional Officer in Saskatchewan. I became aware of the Restorative Justice approaches to demand reduction regarding MSHT response through my previous roles and my current role. It is my goal and passion to address the demand through diversion programing, education, and awareness to provide support for MSHT response work in all forms.
What is your hope for MSHT response work in the Prairies and Northern Territories Division?
I hope our division and territory will work collaboratively with our collateral partners to address MSHT response and to prevent, address, educate and to deter.
Contact: Janith.Rajamanthri@salvationarmy.ca
AnnaMaria Baboskova - Territorial Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking (MSHT) Response Advocate
Who are you?
I am a wife, a mom, and nanny to five amazing grandchildren. I am the Public Relations Coordinator for the Prairies and Northern Territories Division in Winnipeg, Manitoba. I completed a B.A. program through the University of Winnipeg and Menno Simons College, double majoring in Indigenous Studies and Conflict Resolution Studies. In addition, I have completed studies in graphic design at RRC Polytech. My combined education gives me a unique perspective to view the arts as a powerful form for transformative change and promoting individuals' talents as healing agents. My work experience includes several years in health and shelter-related social services in British Columbia, often supporting exploited individuals residing in low-barrier housing.
What is your hope for MSHT response work in the Territory?
I am enthusiastic about finding ways to empower survivors of MSHT. Whether it is listening to a personal story, helping someone access resources, or advocating for a person's rights, no matter how small, all these pieces can be helpful in someone's journey to healing. As a lived-experience leader and first-generation immigrant, I am eager to raise awareness in the newcomer community. Educating others on spotting the signs and identifying ways to protect themselves and those close to them is critical to early intervention. I am excited to connect with like-minded warriors for change, who share a similar passion for social justice.
Contact: Annamaria.Babuskova@salvationarmy.ca
Carolyn Simpson - Divisional Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking (MSHT) Response Advocate
Ontario Division
Who are you?
Commissioned as a Salvation Army Officer in 2004, I have since served in a variety of corps/church appointments. Through Community and Family Service Ministries, I walked alongside people experiencing poverty, addiction, and homelessness. I have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Windsor, and a Masters in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University in New Brunswick.
Why are you passionate about MSHT response work?
I am passionate about MSHT response work because Jesus is passionate about it! In the Old Testament, we see over and over that God was not okay with injustice, and He was constantly providing opportunities for people to make it right! In the New Testament, Jesus provides us with a model of how to treat those who are on the fringes of society, and shows us how to respond to injustice, while showing care and compassion. Throughout my officership, MSHT response work has been one of the many things on my ministry plate. I am excited to give it my full attention and follow God’s lead as I do so.
What is your hope for MSHT response work in Ontario?
Statistics Canada has shared that an estimated 66% of human trafficking in Canada happens in Ontario! There is no shortage of work to do! I want to work with those who have gone before me, who have worked hard to end MSHT in Ontario, and recruit new people from various walks of life to serve on regional MSHT response committees. My hope is that together, we can train and equip people to provide trauma-informed care, to recognize the signs of MSHT, and to develop strategies that will decrease, and eventually eliminate MSHT in Ontario. With God’s help, it can be done!
Contact: ONT-MSHT@salvationarmy.ca
Greg McInnes – Regional Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking (MSHT) Response Advocate
Ontario Division
Who are you and how did you get involved in MSHT response work?
I have served thirty-one years in different Salvation Army ministries - Corps, Youth Ministry, at the Training College, and Correctional and Justice Services. Currently I am the Director of Chaplaincy for Toronto Correctional & Justice Services and serve on the Territorial MSHT Response Committee. I didn’t choose MSHT work. It chose me on the Annual Day of Prayer for Victims for Human Trafficking in 2017 when the Holy Spirit personalized the need and potential for positive significant Salvation Army responses.
What is your hope for MSHT response work in the Ontario Division and the Territory?
I want to help every person I know to become aware of how modern slavery and human trafficking works and then see them join our prevention efforts. I want all ministry units to have a trained human trafficking contact. I also want to see stage 1 and 2 safe MSHT houses established in Ontario.
Contact: ONT-MSHT@salvationarmy.ca
Angelica Hernandez - Regional Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking (MSHT) Response Advocate
Ontario Division
Who are you and how did you get involved in MSHT response work?
I have been working with The Salvation Army serving immigrants and refugees for more than ten years. I have witnessed first-hand the difficulties that victims and survivors of modern slavery and human trafficking have had to go through, and I always think that victim could have been me or someone I love. I know that I cannot end this evil alone, but I cannot stand still and wait for someone else to do it. God has called me to be His eyes, hands, and feet in this world. I decided to answer that call by being part of the Territorial MSHT Response Committee, where with a group of brave Christians who responded to the same call, we can make a difference one soul at a time.
Contact: ONT-MSHT@salvationarmy.ca
Aura Burditt - Ontario South West Regional Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking (MSHT) Response Advocate
Ontario Division
Who are you?
Aura is an Outreach Worker for The Salvation Army Correctional and Justice Services in London Ontario, She assists people impacted by the criminal justice system providing practical and spiritual support as they return to living in the community. Aura also works directly with people who have been trafficked. She is the Chair for the South West Ontario Regional MSHT Committee, and is a member of the Zonal MSHT Response Council for North America and the Caribbean. Aura is passionate about human rights, justice and freedom, and is an artist in her spare time.
Contact: aura.burditt@salvationarmy.ca
Major Barbara Carey - Divisional Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking (MSHT) Response Advocate
Atlantic Division – Quebec
Who are you?
I am a wife, mother of three (who have somehow turned into three amazing adults) and a Salvation Army officer. One of the things I love about being an officer is the wide variety of opportunities that it provides. I have always had a special call to the social mission side of The Salvation Army. This is where God has led me and where I have seen the greatest impact in my ministry.
Do you have any experience with MSHT response work?
I first encountered MSHT work when I was the director of a women’s shelter in Sudbury, Ontario. Working in Northern Ontario made me more aware of the exploitation of women, especially the indigenous population. At the time, I was also the Northern Ontario divisional advocate for MSHT and I learned about MSHT and how The Salvation Army can be active in prevention and advocacy. Since then, I have always made sure to apply a MSHT lens to my work, making sure that staff is aware of MSHT and is equipped to look for signs of exploitation.
What is your hope for MSHT response work in the Quebec-Atlantic Division?
My hope is that all of those who work with us will be aware of how to recognize the signs of MSHT so that those who encounter The Salvation Army will be properly and adequately served - that real needs will be met.
Contact: QC-MSHT@salvationarmy.ca
Peter Thomas - Territorial Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking (MSHT) Response Advocate
Who are you?
I am living out my dream job as the Territorial Consultant for Community Services in the Community Mission Department. Before working at Territorial Headquarters, I was engaged in Community Services in Ontario and had the opportunity to be a The Salvation Army’s Camp Director as well.
Do you have any experience with MSHT response work?
I have not had direct MSHT response experience, but my eyes were opened one afternoon while sitting in a teashop with a volunteer, who happened to be a retired police officer. As we were having tea and talking about life in our food bank, I noticed some activity across the street. I asked my friend if that was what I thought I thought it was and he confirmed it. Who would have suspected in my little rural town that was going on? I sure didn’t. Having taken MSHT courses and webinars, I am learning more and more.
What is your hope for MSHT across the Territory?
As a result of my growing knowledge around MSHT, I am passionate to see resources and supports developed around MSHT for Community Services across the Territory.
Contact: peter.thomas@salvationarmy.ca
Valerie Pavey - Territorial Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking (MSHT) Response Advocate
Territorial Headquarters – Children and Youth Department
Who are you and how did you get involved in MSHT response work?
I am a Children’s Ministries Consultant at Territorial Headquarters working out of the Children and Youth Ministries Department. When asked if I would represent my department on the Territorial MSHT Response Committee, I was thrilled to say “Yes”! Being a part of this committee has been a great learning experience that has been widening my knowledge and understanding of the MSHT fight and the need for everyone to join it.
What is your hope for MSHT response work in the Territory?
I want others to see the need to reach out into our communities to educate and equip our young people in understanding what trafficking is, to know their value as individuals, and to provide them with safe spaces to seek help.
Contact: valerie.pavey@salvationarmy.ca
Rebekah McNeilly - Territorial Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking (MSHT) Response Advocate
Territorial Headquarters – Women’s Ministry
Who are you and why are you passionate about MSHT response work?
I am the Social Media and Resource Coordinator for the women’s ministry department at Territorial headquarters. My passion to combat human trafficking and modern slavery has grown steadily since I was sixteen years old, after watching the film “Nefarious: Merchant of Souls”. Following that, I was met with two unshakable realizations: First, human trafficking is a great evil of the present, and one that should break the hearts of all people. Second, hope is not lost. God has not abandoned any of his children, and he calls those of us who are able to fight to rescue those trapped in darkness. The result of this has led me to pursue a PhD in Criminology in efforts to be fully equipped in knowledge and practice to educate others, and find real solutions to protect vulnerable women and children.
Contact: rebekah.mcneilly@salvationarmy.ca
Stacey Dlamini - Territorial Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking (MSHT) Response Advocate
Temporary Foreign Workers / Migrant Workers + Labour Exploitation Specialist
Who are you?
I am a wife, mother, and grandmother. As a Salvation Army soldier at Westville Corps, Nova Scotia, my husband and I lead the worship team, I play in the brass band, and I run their Alpha ministry.
How did you get involved in MSHT response work?
I have a huge heart for social justice and try to live out the calling on my life and to use my passions and skills to build His kingdom. I have served The Salvation Army in various capacities both in South Africa and in Canada at the corps / church and territorial level. I have long been involved in addressing modern slavery and human trafficking and helped shape the Southern Africa Territory’s action plan when I served on their Anti-Human Trafficking committee from 2010 - 2013.
Upon my return to Canada, I coordinated a modern slavery and human trafficking response in my community and have been involved in educating youth and adults alike about how to prevent trafficking among youth. Since 2017, I have been particularly involved in supporting Temporary Foreign Worker to know and assert their rights.
Contact: stacey@youngable.com