New Light, New Life:Freedom for NK Defectors

Hi, my name is Nia, and I’m a proud volunteer with FSI (Freedom Speakers International), an organization dedicated to supporting North Korean defectors as they rebuild their lives in freedom.

I’ve been traveling to South Korea since 2017, but everything changed for me in August 2024, when I visited the North Korean border. That experience profoundly shifted my understanding of the Korean Peninsula—not just as a visitor, but as someone called to make a difference. Standing at the edge of such a stark divide between oppression and opportunity lit a fire in me. Since then, I’ve dedicated myself to working directly with North Korean defectors, helping them learn English, navigate their new identities, and achieve their goals in South Korean society and beyond.

This journey has led me to mentor defectors for FSI’s “I Am From North Korea” speech contest at Harvard University, a powerful platform where brave individuals share their stories, their resilience, and their dreams for the future. It’s more than a contest—it’s a reclaiming of voice and identity.

That’s why I’ve launched this fundraiser, titled:
“New Light, New Life — Freedom for North Korean Defectors.”

This campaign supports programs that provide defectors with language education, emotional support, career tools, and mentorship as they transition into their new lives of freedom. Every dollar raised will go toward creating opportunities for defectors to not just survive—but thrive—as they step into the light of new beginnings.

Your support helps make freedom more than just a destination—it makes it a foundation for a new life.

Thank you for believing in second chances, in dignity, and in the power of voice.
Let’s walk with them toward freedom, together.

— Nia
Volunteer Mentor, FSI for North Korean Defectors

30 Fundraisers Set Up — Just 10 More to Go!

Thanks to a generous South Korean donor, Freedom Speakers International is running a Matching Challenge to empower North Korean refugees.

The donor has pledged to donate $100 for every fundraiser set up — up to 40 fundraisers total.

✅ 30 people have already set up fundraisers
🎯 We need just 10 more to unlock the full match

At FSI, we empower North Korean refugees through education and public speaking. Many are now giving speeches around the world, writing books, and telling their stories in English for the first time.

By starting or supporting a fundraiser, you’re helping them continue that journey.
Even if you don’t raise any money, just setting one up helps us unlock more support.

👉 Set up your fundraiser. Show your support.
Together, we can amplify voices that were once silenced.

—
Casey Lartigue Jr.
Co-founder and Chairman
Freedom Speakers International (FSI)