Miss San Pedro 2014, Miss Michelle Nuñez recently became a member of the On Eagles Wings Ministries (OEWM) whose members are frequent visitors of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize. OEWM works hand in hand with Miss Alexis Guerrero, present counselor at San Pedro High School, by assisting her with presentations and workshops dealing with sensitive issues such as sexual abuse and human trafficking, amongst other topics.
Below is a report written by Michelle in which she shares her experience in meeting these great people and how she, as a public figure, helped spread awareness of their mission in San Pedro.
Miss San Pedro Joins On Eagles Wings Ministries
“On October 19, 2014, I was invited to an amazing dinner at Ramon’s Village and met such wonderful people. I knew I couldn’t miss this opportunity to get to know the non-profit organization On Eagles Wings Ministries.
It all started on September 10, 2014, when I was crowned as the official Miss San Pedro 2014-2015. I had a short conversation with Alexis Guerrero, I told her how much it meant to me to reach out to the young ladies who have been victims of sexual abuse or lack self esteem, since that topic hits home to me. Alexis Guerrero is the present counselor at San Pedro High School.
Last week I received a message from Emily Fitchpatrick, founder and president of On Eagles Wings Ministries (OEWM). She messaged back setting up an appointment for us to meet each other and the group. At last I found a non-profit group that would suit my goals. We talked as we had known each other for years. Emily is such a caring person and full of ideas. It was an honor to meet another key person, Amena Mchea, employee at the OEWM Hope House. I also met Autumn Hanline, who is the prevention coordinator and also enjoys running and we both shared our good work out habits. I got to meet Ashley Frady, a nursing student who wanted to help out. Blake Davis, an intern with the ministry and works with the girls at the safe house. The entire team welcomed me at dinner with big smiles.
On Eagles Wings Ministries seeks to prevent females from falling victim to sex trafficking, offer assistance to those still trapped, and restore those who have survived by offering hope, empowerment, and a brighter future. We focused on prevention, outreach, aftercare, and empowerment.” With my experience I’ve learnt that human trafficking, exploitation of women and children, and prostitution are all linked. It’s sad to see that young girls, our children, are offered for sexual services in exchange for money. It’s known as the Sugar Daddy Syndrome. And it is happening in our island. OEWM will launch their work empowerment program in San Pedro in 2015. The program will provide employment to females ages 14 and up that have been sexually exploited.
I am honored to be a Belize board member for OEWM to help this become a reality. I have so much ideas and fun plans ahead for 2015. I am ready to work. I am ready to spend some time with the young girls. And I am ready to share my experience with you. We must protect our young girls, like Emily said; they don’t wake up and decide to work as an escort. San Pedro, I ask for your support and join me on this journey.”
Sincerely,
Michelle Estrella Nuñez
Miss San Pedro 2014-2015
Belize Board Member OEWM
