Behind the Scenes: Advocacy, Awareness & Finding My Voice

Hey Tribe,

It’s been a big few years - and lately, I’ve been reflecting on how far this journey has taken me. What started as a quiet search for healing has grown into something I never imagined: a platform for advocacy, awareness, and connection.

When I first joined a Facebook group for survivors, I didn’t know what I was looking for - I just knew I needed to feel less alone. That space became a lifeline. It was the space in which I saw people openly sharing their stories, and it gave me the courage to start sharing mine. Slowly, truth began to rise - not in anger, but in honesty. And with that honesty came community and information. 

We weren’t “forsaken.” We weren’t broken. We were just people trying to make sense of our pasts - and we were doing it together.

That community gave me the strength to speak up. I shared my experience of the group I was born into, and the impact of being shunned. It was raw and vulnerable, but it was also empowering.

I had the opportunity to speak with incredible people in Geelong and also have the opportunity to contribute an initiative overseas that highlights the effects of mandated shunning which is the tool commonly used in these groups.

And one of the most meaningful moments? When I heard that the Parliament of Victoria’s Inquiry into the recruitment methods and impacts of cults and organised fringe groups would be accepting submissions from people!
Being able to watch these things come to life due to the dedication of each and every ex-member is incredible, and I still pinch myself when I realise how many of us there are now all contributing in our own ways yet also as a whole. 

💛 Why This Matters

Through all of this, I’ve learned more about myself, my triggers, and the deeper layers of healing. I’m not “finished” - but I’ve come a long way. And I can't keep reminding myself of how proud I am of that.

This advocacy work is deeply connected to my business, Breaking Chains Tribe as every sticker I design is connected to lived experience - and 5% of every sticker sold goes toward supporting organisations that raise awareness around mental health and high-control groups.

This isn’t just a business. It’s a movement.

Thank you for being here. Thank you for listening. And thank you for being part of this Tribe.

With love always,
Lauren