Beyond the Dark Highway

This compelling Canadian film reveals how youth are groomed, lured, and exploited through organized trafficking networks—issues that reflect the realities faced by vulnerable youth in British Columbia. The event aims to strengthen awareness, encourage inter-agency collaboration, and equip service providers with insight to better identify risks and connect youth to safety and support.

Location: Douglas College, Coquitlam Campus, Room A1470 Lecture Theatre

Date/Time: Friday, November 14th, 2025 – 12:30pm to 3:30pm

Kelly Tallon Franklin:

Kelly Tallon Franklin is a nationally recognized advocate, educator, and survivor leader dedicated to ending human trafficking and sexual exploitation in Canada. She is the founder and CEO of Courage for Freedom, a non-profit organization that provides prevention education, survivor support, and training for professionals working with vulnerable populations. Drawing on her lived experience and decades of frontline work, Kelly brings a powerful voice of insight, compassion, and action to every conversation about protecting and empowering youth.

Elder Stephen Armstrong - Welcome:

Stephen Armstrong, also known as Xem-Tu-Mus, is an Elder and Knowledge Keeper from kʷikʷəƛ̓əm First Nation, located in the Tri-Cities area of Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, and Port Moody. As owner of Red Sockeye Consulting Inc., he provides cultural consultation, workshops on colonial impacts, cultural sensitivity, and trauma-informed care, fostering understanding and reconciliation between kʷikʷəƛ̓əm and surrounding communities. Since beginning his cultural journey in 1993, Stephen has dedicated himself to learning, sharing, and strengthening relationships with a good heart and positive intent.