Shamere Mckenzie

Shamere McKenzie is a distinguished international anti-trafficking strategist, systems leader, and consultant to the United Nations and various U.S. government agencies, with more than 15 years of cross-sector impact. A passionate activist and internationally recognized speaker, she leverages her lived experience with sex trafficking to transform adversity into advocacy, driving systemic change and advancing policies that promote justice, protection, and meaningful survivor inclusion on both national and global stages.

As the CEO of Sun Gate Foundation, an anti-trafficking organization, McKenzie passionately channels her commitment to education and policy into providing survivors of human trafficking with essential educational opportunities. Her influential role extends to the Maryland State Human Trafficking Task Force, where she co-chairs the Victim Services Committee, leading cross-sector collaboration to improve services for survivors.

Beyond her impact in the United States, McKenzie responded to a call from the Ministry of Justice in her birthplace, Jamaica, and holds the distinguished title of the first appointed Anti-Human Trafficking Ambassador for Jamaica since 2018.

Drawing on her experiences as a former Program Director, McKenzie authored a groundbreaking anti-trafficking program and oversaw an emergency residential program for adult survivors. She is a sought-after resource, having trained various professionals, including the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Diplomatic Security, prosecutors, judges, faith leaders, hotel and airline staff, in identifying and responding to human trafficking victims, both in the U.S. and globally.

Her compelling narrative and leadership have been featured in several books, documentaries, and media outlets, serving as an impactful educational tool. Her most recent documentary, "False Promises," released in 2018 on the island of Aruba, specifically addresses sex trafficking awareness among Caribbean youth.

McKenzie holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice from Loyola University Chicago and actively serves on various boards, advisory groups, and speakers bureaus. She has garnered numerous awards in recognition of her exceptional contributions to the anti-trafficking movement.

A faith-driven leader, McKenzie draws strength from her unwavering belief in Jesus Christ. Refusing to be labeled a victim or survivor, she proudly identifies as a liberator— one who has broken free from the chains of her past, determined to pave the way for others who have endured enslavement. Her voice, vision, and leadership continue to to shape a global movement toward justice, dignity, and systemic transformation.