Every Woman Matters: Social Entrepreneur Jenny McGee and the Vision Behind Starfish Project
Show Notes:
In this deeply moving episode of The Slow Dive, host Farida Rafique sits down with Jenny McGee, founder and executive director of Starfish Project, a pioneering social enterprise restoring hope and freedom to women escaping human trafficking and exploitation across Asia.
From humble beginnings around a dining table to a global movement transforming over 200 lives, Jenny shares the origin story and symbolism behind the Starfish Project name, her journey of faith and purpose, and the radical compassion that fuels her work. Together, they explore the challenges of social entrepreneurship, the importance of trauma-informed care, and the role of community in creating lasting change.
Jenny reflects on the significance of creating beautiful products that empower women while resonating with customers worldwide. Through her visionary leadership, she reminds us that every woman matters, that each is worthy of joy, deserving of love, and capable of rebuilding her life with dignity and strength.
This episode is a powerful meditation on belief, in oneself, in others, and in the quiet, enduring power of purpose to change the world.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Starfish Project and Jenny McGee
03:36 The Origin Story of Starfish Project
07:26 The Symbolism of the Starfish
09:07 Literature and Social Entrepreneurship
10:52 Personal Encounters and Understanding Freedom
12:45 Early Experiences and Growth of the Starfish Project
16:38 Empowerment Through Training and Leadership
18:17 Daily Life at Starfish Project
20:09 Understanding Human Trafficking
22:45 The Complexity of Awareness in Trafficking
25:44 Holistic Care and Trauma-Informed Approaches
29:06 Building Trust in Challenging Environments
31:30 Tailored Training for Survivors
34:53 Empowering Women Through Employment
35:59 The Evolution of Starfish Project Jewelry
39:10 Balancing Impact and Profit
41:59 Expanding Global Impact Through Partnerships
44:33 Future Aspirations for Starfish Project
47:52 Advice for Aspiring Social Entrepreneurs
52:08 The Meaning of Kindness in Today's World
Takeaways:
Starfish Project began from a place of compassion and relationship-building.
The name 'Starfish' symbolizes making a difference one life at a time.
Social entrepreneurship can stem from unexpected paths, like a literature major.
Empowerment comes from providing survivors with opportunities and training.
Building a supportive community is crucial for both survivors and staff.
Understanding human trafficking requires awareness of its complexities.
Trauma-informed care is essential in supporting survivors' healing.
Training programs should be tailored to individual needs and backgrounds.
Partnerships can amplify impact and expand reach in social enterprises.
Kindness involves being present and listening to others, not just completing tasks.
Call to Action: Shop gift-wrapped life-transforming gifts this Christmas at starfishproject.com
ABOUT JENNY MCGEE
Jenny McGee is the Executive Director and Founder of Starfish Project. She has committed her life to serving people in Asia. Jenny never dreamed that building relationships with marginalized women in brothels would result in the aftercare organization and social enterprise now known as Starfish Project. Jenny has lived in East Asia for over twenty years. She has watched in amazement as Starfish Project has grown from five ladies engaging around a dining room table to over 200 women experiencing freedom, establishing independence, and developing careers. "Every woman is here on this earth for a purpose. They are worthy of joy, deserving of love, and possess immeasurable worth. They matter. This truth fuels everyone at Starfish Project. We are driven to share this message with every woman we encounter, hoping that one day, they will believe it for themselves." She currently lives in East Asia with her husband, Douglas, and their three children.
www.facebook.com/StarfishProjAsia
www.instagram.com/starfish_project/
Shop gift-wrapped life-transforming gifts this Christmas at starfishproject.com
