Dallas native Tonya Stafford is a survivor of human trafficking who has been using her voice for more than 10 years to help rescue, restore and stabilize victims of that heinous crime and keep them safe.
As a Black woman, what do you consider your superpowers to be?
My granddaughter says I have superpowers because I save so many young girls and women out of trafficking. She says, “That’s what Superwoman does, but Granny you’re Superwoman, a true visionary.”
What key qualities make you unique as an African American female leader?
[My key qualities] are transparency, honesty, sympathy, empathy and compassion; my ability to meet people where they are; my determination. I am [an] achiever. My sense of humor. My kids think I am so funny. [I am also a] reliable and persuasive communicator.
What encouraging piece of advice would you give to your younger self?
If you are going to fail, fail fast. Hurry up and fail so that you can get up, Tonya, and learn from that failure. If you fall, fall forward. That way you can brace yourself and get up quickly. You have so much to offer to this world. You will make an impact on this world. You belong here.
Why is it important for more experienced Black women to reach back and help younger women of color?
It’s important because the older [and] wiser should set an example. My neighbor, [who] saved me and poured into me shaped my life as a mother, friend, sister, wife-to-be and overall human being, she said, “I didn’t save you to sit on it. Reach back and get one, and then you teach that one how to save their generation.” I model myself after the teaching of an experienced, loving Black woman.
What are three success habits you implement into your daily routine to maintain your success, sanity and peace of mind?
Therapy every Thursday to maintain mental healthiness, practicing self-care, exercising, eating healthy and vacationing, making sure I let someone every day know how much they are loved.
As a successful woman, what are your proudest achievements?
HB2290, [the bill that established] January [as] Human Trafficking Prevention Month here in the state of Texas. My survivor [and] thriver voice did that!
Be The One documentary featuring my story as a state-mandated awareness training video for Texas state employees.
Testifying at trafficking survivor Cyntoia Brown’s clemency hearing in Tennessee as an advocate survivor resulting in clemency being granted by Tennessee’s Gov. Bill Haslam [in] February 2019. Cyntoia was released Aug. 7, 2019.
Being a mother to my four children — my reasons why — and them being proud of me.
My 4 1/2 grandchildren. Being called Granny is the best feeling outside hearing Momma.
