Alejandra Madrid, age 21

Albuquerque, New Mexico

In college, I was raped twice. Feeling lonely and like I deserve everything bad that happened to me, I learned that love will always win and love will always conquer fear in the end. With the support of close ones around me, I realized that everything happens for a reason and events like these happen to make me a stronger woman. Since the incidences, I have been able to share my story and spread awareness all around my college campus. Not only have I become an advocate for others, but slowly I’ve realized that I am a good person. Although I can’t predict what will happen in life, I can choose how to heal myself and who my true supporters in life are. With the power of love, through my family and friends, and sharing my story with others, hopefully I can influence another woman to be brave when life seems dark.