What we do and why we do it
Yola Collection, is a humanitarian initiative supported by the United States Anti-Slavery Organization, and provides people and children who are survivors of severe trauma, armed violent conflict, human trafficking, and Slavery, with a holistic educational and creative therapy through a variety of methods.
Through education, art, music & singing classes, dance & movement, fashion, styling, makeup training for girls, acting and performance, sports, as well as design and creativity workshops, the organization offers both adult and young survivors a path to safe, stable, healthy futures.
Emphasizing themes of claiming individuality, courage to express oneself, rebuilding confidence, discovering identity, and restoring human dignity, Yola Academy aims to bring joy, creativity, and purpose to the lives of survivors.
Therapy Services For Survivors of Human Trafficking and Slavery
Creative Art
Art allows children to tell their stories without having to relive them. Through drawing, painting, sculpting, and mixed media, participants explore feelings, memories, and hopes in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Our art therapy programs are designed to strengthen self-esteem, reduce anxiety, and help children regain a sense of control over their inner world while celebrating their unique identities.
Fashion
Fashion is a form of storytelling and self-reclamation. Through design, textiles, and creative styling, children explore identity, culture, and self-expression. Our fashion programs empower participants to make choices, express individuality, and transform creativity into confidence. For children impacted by conflict, fashion becomes a way to reclaim ownership of their image and voice.
Music
Music is a universal language of healing. Through rhythm, melody, and sound, children are given a safe space to express emotions that words cannot hold. Yola Collection’s music programs use singing, instruments, and listening practices to support emotional regulation, rebuild trust, and restore a sense of joy. For children affected by trauma and armed conflict, music becomes a bridge back to connection, creativity, and inner calm.
Dance
Dance allows the body to speak when the mind feels overwhelmed. Through guided movement, rhythm, and choreography, children reconnect with their bodies in a way that feels safe and empowering. Dance therapy supports emotional release, improves coordination, and helps restore a positive relationship with the body—especially for children whose physical boundaries have been disrupted by extreme violent trauma.
Education
Education at Yola Collection goes beyond textbooks. We combine academic learning with creative and therapeutic approaches that are sensitive to the experiences of children who have lived through instability and conflict. Our programs foster curiosity, resilience, and critical thinking while rebuilding confidence in learning. Education becomes a pathway to empowerment, opportunity, and long-term healing and financial stability.
Sports
Sports provide structure, teamwork, and a healthy outlet for energy and emotions. Through play, games, and physical activity, children learn cooperation, trust, and self-confidence. Our sports programs emphasize inclusion, joy, and emotional safety, helping children rebuild resilience while experiencing the simple but powerful act of playing and exercising together.
