Witnessing Transformation on the Front Lines of Child Protection
Gold Rain
Nick Runyon’s interview with Sharina Gutierrez coming soon!
Judah Tana leads Global Advance Projects
Written by Ashlee Heiligman
Every trip to Thailand reminds me why I gave my life to this work.
Twenty years after first stepping off a plane in this country as a young social worker, I still find myself inspired by the extraordinary leaders God has raised up to protect children, strengthen families, and bring hope into some of the most difficult places imaginable.
One of the greatest joys of this trip was spending time with my friend and colleague, Daniel Nyan. For sixteen years, we’ve laughed, cried, prayed, and walked through some of the hardest realities in child protection together. Watching Daniel in action never gets old. Whether he is mentoring staff, encouraging families, building partnerships, or advocating for vulnerable children, he leads with remarkable wisdom, humility, and perseverance. Seeing the trust he has built among communities, government leaders, and child protection partners was a powerful reminder that lasting change is built through years of faithful service. It is a privilege to watch God use his leadership to create stronger systems of protection for children and families across Thailand and Myanmar.
I was equally encouraged spending time with Gold Rain and the women of Sojourn Studio. What began as a dream has become a thriving community where women are earning dignified income, developing new skills, supporting their families, and building futures filled with possibility. Sitting in the studio, listening to stories, watching artisans at work, and seeing the excellence of what they create was incredibly moving. Every piece of jewelry represents far more than craftsmanship, it represents resilience, opportunity, and hope.
Joining us was our Global Ambassador, Sharina Gutierrez, whose passion for impact-driven brands resonated deeply with the women she met. As she listened to their stories and saw their work firsthand, her commitment to championing the artisans only grew stronger. She believes consumers want to know that their purchases are creating real change in real lives, and she has become a powerful advocate for helping share that story. We are excited to see that advocacy grow through a new creator community that will help connect more people to the mission behind Sojourn Studio.
Another highlight was visiting Shalom and our preschool centers. Everywhere we went, children were learning, laughing, and thriving. The impact extends far beyond the walls of any classroom. Parents gain practical tools to nurture and protect their children. Families are becoming stronger and communities are becoming more safe. Our teams are helping build the protective relationships and support systems that allow children to flourish long after they leave our programs.
One of the most sobering moments came while visiting areas along the border where casino compounds and online scam centers continue to expand. Standing there was a stark reminder of how quickly vulnerability can be exploited. We were grateful to spend time with Judah Tana and learn more about the remarkable work being done through Global Advance Projects to help individuals escape these environments in order to rebuild their lives. Seeing both the scale of the challenge and the courage of those responding to it reinforced the urgency of prevention and protection.
We were also joined by Nick and Whitney Runyon, longtime friends of GCA and gifted storytellers who have a unique ability to capture the heart behind the work. Their passion is not simply documenting programs but revealing the dignity, resilience, and hope of the people at the center of every story. I cannot wait for others to see what they captured and to meet the incredible leaders and families whose lives are being transformed.
Upon returning from Thailand, I am filled with deep gratitude. Gratitude for leaders who faithfully serve on the front lines. Gratitude for families fighting to stay together. Gratitude for women building brighter futures through dignified work. Gratitude for children who are finding safety, belonging, and hope.
Most of all, I am grateful for each of you.
Your prayers, generosity, and encouragement make this work possible. Because of your partnership, children are being protected, families are being strengthened, and communities are becoming places where every child has the opportunity to grow up safe, loved, known, and protected within a family.
Thank you for being part of the story God is writing.
Dinner with key GCA leaders