Empowered by Courage and Curiosity: Transforming Lives through Research and Advocacy

A psychology major at Columbia University’s School of General Studies, Ava Kamdem exemplifies courage and determination. As a survivor of human trafficking, Ava has transformed her firsthand experiences into a profound drive to understand and address systemic injustices through research and advocacy. As a Social Impact Fellow and Global Thought Scholar with Columbia World Projects, Ava’s work combines academic rigor with a personal mission to create meaningful societal change.

Ava’s journey to Columbia began after she earned her GED and attended community college in Texas. “I came to Columbia in September 2022, driven by a profound fascination with the mind—an interest shaped by my lived experience of overcoming manipulation, coercion, and systemic injustice,” she explains.

Ava has channeled her passion for social psychology into impactful research, working under the mentorship of Professor Geraldine Downey on Project Restore Bed-Stuy, a gang-violence intervention program. As part of this, Ava’s research examines the impact of Project Restore Bed-Stuy’s intervention program on social networks and social capital—critical factors she believes can transform lives for former gang members.

Drawing from her own journey, Ava deeply understands the life-changing role that social capital, built through strong networks, played in her ability to rebuild her life. She faced systemic barriers common for survivors of human trafficking, such as difficulties in securing employment, housing, banking services, and even obtaining a phone plan. Overcoming these obstacles enabled her to return to school and ultimately find her place at Columbia. Reflecting on her experience, Ava shares, “It was people with privilege and vast social networks who generously advocated for me and helped me rebuild my life.”

Based on her experience, and motivated to help others in similar situations, Ava’s research for Project Restore Bed-Stuy is driven by a key question: “Does this intervention program increase participants’ social networks and social capital?” Before the intervention, participants averaged just 38 connections, primarily within their close inner circles, such as family. However, following the intervention, their networks expanded to an average of 411 connections. This growth encompasses not only personal relationships, but also broader support systems and professional connections. By fostering these multi-tiered networks, Project Restore Bed-Stuy provides participants with a vital foundation for personal growth, professional advancement, and reintegration into society.

Now, hoping to help even more people, Ava is applying to PhD programs and aiming to advance research on stigmatization and employment discrimination faced by women survivors of human trafficking. Her goal is to develop interventions that empower these women to secure meaningful employment and access economic opportunities. By focusing on the intersection of social capital and organizational behavior, Ava seeks to merge these fields to effect tangible change.

Ava’s scholarly work is complemented by her advocacy for stigmatized populations, including survivors of trafficking and formerly incarcerated individuals. She envisions a world where these individuals are seen as assets, not liabilities. “They bring invaluable soft skills and novel thinking to business and academia,” she emphasizes. Ava hopes her research will contribute to shifting societal narratives and reducing discrimination against these groups.

Envisioned by Dr. Jeannette M. Wing, Executive Vice President for Research, the “Researcher of the Month” series celebrates Columbia University researchers at all levels — students, postdocs, and faculty — by showcasing their scientific contributions, passion for their work, and personal stories.