Our Founder's Story

In 2009, during a fact-finding mission to Thailand, Alezandra was confronted with the harsh realities of trafficking, exploitation, and violence endured by a largely overlooked demographic—boys. While conducting night outreach in the Red Light District of Chiang Mai, Alezandra was struck by the alarming prevalence of sex trafficking, which entrapped boys as young as 11 years old. Driven by a sense of ethical and personal obligation, Alezandra delved deeper into the alleys of boy bars to gain a firsthand understanding of the horrific situation.

In the midst of this dark reality, Alezandra encountered a glimmer of hope in an unexpected friendship with a boy named "Oi." Bonding over their shared love for soccer and spirited games of Connect Four, Alezandra and Oi formed a connection that transcended language barriers and cultural divides.

Returning to her home in Washington, DC, Alezandra found herself unable to shake off the haunting memories of what she had witnessed. Driven by a profound sense of duty and compassion, she made the decision to take action. Quitting her job, and liquidating personal assets – including her engagement and wedding rings – Alezandra set out to establish Urban Light, a hint of light amidst the darkness.

With Oi's guidance and the unwavering dedication of her Thai national team, Urban Light quickly became a force to be reckoned with, providing essential services and support to vulnerable boys in Chiang Mai. From emergency assistance to empowerment programs, Urban Light has been instrumental in helping vulnerable boys reclaim their lives and futures.

Today, Urban Light stands as a testament to Alezandra's resilience and unwavering commitment to social justice. Having served over 15,000 boys and distributed over 50,000 meals, Urban Light continues to shine brightly, illuminating the path towards a brighter and more equitable future for all. Alezandra's journey serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, one person's determination can spark a revolution of hope and change.