This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. We might believe that we live in modern societies where slavery not longer exists but reality will surprise us. Human trafficking is the new word for slavery and hundreds of people lose their freedom every single day. So what are you going to do with your freedom?

Philip Hyldgaard is one of the prominent NGO leaders in the fight against human trafficking. At the age of 23, he moved to Greece to pioneer The A21 Campaign, and embarked on opening the organization’s first shelter; later he oversaw the launch of the national human trafficking hotline for Greece, 1109.

Today, Philip is the Global Operations Manager for A21, and the organization has grown to 10 offices in nine countries around the world, having assisted hundreds of survivors of human trafficking.

In 2012, Philip was declared a hero in the fight against human trafficking by Hilary Clinton and the US Department of State.

Philip’s story of using what is in your hand to make a difference will inspire you, and encourage you to do the same.

About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)