In 2019, Jessica's life changed forever when she was kidnapped and trafficked for 17 months. Through the unwavering determination, love, and relentless efforts of her family, especially her father Gabriel Contreras, she was able to return home. 

 

Although she was finally safe, healing didn't happen overnight. Jessica spent nearly three years rebuilding her life before finding the strength to publicly share her story. Rather than letting her past define her future, she transformed one of the darkest chapters of her life into a mission.

 

 Today, Jessica is a survivor, advocate, public speaker, and co-founder of Fe y Esperanza, a survivor-led nonprofit dedicated to preventing human trafficking.

 

She partners with schools, churches, nonprofits, law enforcement, first responders, and community groups to provide engaging prevention trainings, equipping youth, parents, educators, and community members to recognize warning signs and help protect vulnerable individuals before exploitation occurs.

 

Her work has been recognized by leaders and organizations throughout San Diego County. Jessica has received Certificates of Recognition from Mayor Ron Morrison of National City, Mayor John McCann of Chula Vista, and a Proclamation from San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond honoring her advocacy, community leadership, and commitment to human trafficking prevention,  as well as a Soroptimist Scholarship recognizing her leadership, resilience, and dedication to empowering others.

 

What truly sets Jessica apart is not just her story, but the connection she creates with every audience. Her presentations foster a safe, welcoming, and engaging environment where people feel comfortable asking difficult questions, sharing their experiences, and participating in meaningful conversations. Through authenticity, compassion, and lived experience, Jessica connects with audiences of all ages—especially youth—in a way that is relatable, impactful, and unforgettable.

 

Jessica equips audiences with practical prevention strategies, empowers communities to take action, encourages difficult but necessary conversations, and reminds survivors that healing is possible. She believes education saves lives and every conversation has the power to protect someone. 

 

Her mission is to use her story as a catalyst for change—bringing awareness, prevention, and hope to communities while empowering others to stand together against human trafficking.