Who will walk the runway during New York Fashion Week and win $20,000? You decide.
Dr. Tonya Stafford
Dr. Tonya Stafford has advanced to the Quarterfinals, which will start on Wednesday, August 19th.
About Dr. Tonya Stafford
Dr. Tonya Stafford is a survivor, advocate, and nonprofit founder whose journey from trafficking victim to national award-winning leader inspires hope, resilience, and change for survivors and communities worldwide.
Learn More About Dr. Tonya Stafford
What makes you the Next Runway Star?
I am the next Runway Star because I represent resilience, purpose, and transformation. As a survivor of human trafficking, I have turned my pain into a mission that empowers others, proving that our past does not define our future. What makes me the next Runway Star is my ability to use my platform to inspire change and give hope to those who feel unseen or unheard. Every step I take represents resilience, advocacy, and hope for survivors everywhere. I walk the runway not only for myself, but for every survivor who needs to see that healing, hope, and success are possible. Through my work as an advocate, speaker, and nonprofit founder, I strive to help others reclaim their voices, rebuild their lives, and recognize their worth. I believe a true star shines brightest when they help others find their light. If chosen, I will continue using my voice and platform to inspire courage, raise awareness, and remind others that no matter where they begin, their future can be brighter than a past
What would this once in a lifetime experience mean to you and why?
This once in a lifetime experience would mean far more to me than walking a runway it would be an opportunity to represent resilience, hope, and the power of overcoming adversity. As a survivor of human trafficking, there was a time when I never imagined having a voice, much less a platform to inspire others. Today, I use my story to advocate for survivors, educate communities, and show others that their circumstances do not define their future. Being selected as the next Runway Star would allow me to amplify that message on an even greater scale. It would be an opportunity to represent not only myself, but the countless survivors who are still finding their voice and rebuilding their lives. I want them to see that healing is possible, that their dreams are valid, and that they are worthy of being seen and celebrated.This experience would be both an honor and a responsibility. I would use it to raise awareness, inspire hope, and encourage others to believe that there is hope!
What are you most proud of about yourself or what have you overcome and why?
I am most proud of my resilience and my decision to turn pain into purpose. As a survivor of human trafficking, I overcame experiences that once made me feel hopeless. Choosing to heal, rebuild my life, and use my voice to advocate for others was not easy, but it became the most defining decision of my life. I chose to represent hope.I am proud that I did not allow my past to define my future. Instead, I used it to fuel my purpose and create change for others who have experienced exploitation and trauma. Through founding my nonprofit, I have been able to support survivors, educate communities, and help bring awareness to issues that are often hidden.I am also proud to have used my voice in passing House Bill 2290, establishing January as Human Trafficking Prevention Month in Texas. What I am most proud of is not just what I have overcome, but who I have become because of it someone who stands in strength, speaks hope into others, and reminds people that healing is possible and worth it
What would you do with the $20,000 cash prize?
If I were awarded $20,000 in cash, I would use it in a way that strengthens both my personal stability and my ability to continue my advocacy work. I understand the importance of maintaining balance between caring for others and sustaining myself so I can continue to serve effectively.A portion of the funds would go toward essential needs such as housing stability, transportation, and restoring financial security, ensuring I remain grounded and able to focus on my work without added strain. I would also invest in my continued growth through professional development, training, and resources that enhance my ability to serve others at a higher level.Additionally, I would set aside part of the funds for wellness and restoration, because maintaining my mental, emotional, and physical health is essential for long-term success and service. Taking care of myself allows me to continue showing up fully for others.Ultimately, I would use this opportunity to strengthen the foundation as well.
Content from Dr. Tonya Stafford
L'Oréal Paris Woman of Worth Honoree Dr. Tonya Stafford
Dr. Tonya story
Dr. Tonya Stafford: From human trafficking survivor to remarkable woman
Dr. Tonya Stafford: From human trafficking
TESTIMONY from Trinity Church
HB 2290 Testimony
Dr. Tonya Testimony
Dr. Tonya Stafford Story Wfaa
Rise is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit that helps sexual assault survivors across the country and around the world. They’ve created the most successful legislative reform movement in U.S. history: 120 laws passed, 1 UN Resolution and 112 million people’s lives impacted by their efforts.
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