A Voice for the Vulnerable: From Veterinary Roots to the Frontlines Against Human Trafficking

Who I am: My name is Patrick Adeyemi-Buckle, born on October 24, 1973, in Freetown, Sierra Leone. I am a proud Krio, a Sierra Leonean-American, bachelor’s in veterinary medicine, and a passionate advocate against human trafficking. I come from a humble but strong family with two sisters and one brother. My mother is still alive, and my father, a respected veterinarian who mentored me, passed away in 2024. I am happily divorced, do not smoke or drink, and live a peaceful and focused life.

Since childhood, I’ve been known for my love for animals, especially dogs, and for nature, classical music, and the beach. I enjoy going on long walks along the coast, and I love a boisterous ocean. I love to laugh and play, but I can quickly switch to being serious when needed. I believe anyone can be my family.

I cherish the scripture that says: "Whatsoever you do to the least of my brethren, that you do unto me."

Early Life & Education: I began my education at Saint Anthony’s Boys School in Freetown and later attended West Africa Methodist Collegiate School. After high school, I pursued a certificate program at Njala University College. As a child, I was an apprentice veterinary technician under the guidance of my father. I began castrating dogs and administering vaccines to animals at the age of 13, which marked the beginning of my lifelong love for veterinary work. My father recognized my potential early on. Despite coming from a poor background, I developed a strong sense of responsibility, resilience and compassion. I learned to cook at an early age and often shared meals with neighbors. When my father left the home, I stepped into his role, caring for my mother and siblings.

My skills in treating animals became a way of feeding and supporting the family. At age 16, I began taking care of my peers by supporting their school fees. I had many childhood friends and was naturally drawn to sharing and helping others. Eventually I was given an award by the Russian Federation, where I studied a professional veterinary program, gaining formal training to build on my early foundation. Professional Path: From Veterinary Science to Advocacy Over the years, I have worked in a variety of professional roles that helped shape my worldview and prepare me for advocacy work. These include:

• Working at veterinary hospitals and organizations in the U.S., including with kids in the Autism Spectrum, The Elderly, and Till Inc.

• Serving as a Veterinary Research Technician at Boston University.

• Spending three years at Harvard University, contributing to global research initiatives.

• Joining Novartis Pharmaceutical Company as a Research Scientist, advancing medical knowledge and solutions.

My move to the United States in 2011 marked a turning point in my professional life. I hold dual nationality as a Sierra Leonean-American.

A Turning Point: The Fight Against Human Trafficking: While traveling between the United States and Sierra Leone, I witnessed firsthand the harrowing realities of human trafficking — children exploited, women deceived, and families destroyed by manipulation and poverty. This deeply affected me. Though I was not a trained social worker, I could not ignore the pain and injustice.

These experiences gave birth to a new calling.

On March 14, 2024, I founded the True Hope Foundation International — an organization committed to fighting human trafficking and giving vulnerable people a chance at a new life. Our mission includes:

• Raising awareness about human trafficking

• Educating schools, communities, and religious centers

• Providing support and reintegration for victims

• Collaborating with national and international partners

• Advocating for law enforcement and policy reform

Beliefs and Personal Interests: I live by the values of truth, service, and dignity. My love for nature, classical, gospel music, and animals reflects my gentle yet purposeful spirit. I am happiest walking by the sea or loving my dogs when I have them. Listening to good audio books on audible. My lifestyle is one of discipline and compassion. I avoid substances, embrace simplicity, and remain grounded in my faith and family values. Vision for the Future My ultimate vision is to build a world where exploitation no longer exists. A world where:

• Children grow up safe and educated

• Communities are empowered and informed

• Survivors of trafficking are given hope, healing, and a future.

As the Founder of True Hope Foundation International, I stand at the intersection of science, service, and justice — a bridge between those who suffer and the hope they deserve.

Final Words: I am Patrick Adeyemi-Buckle, a Veterinary Medicine Degree in the Russian Federation. - A former Harvard and Boston University researcher - A Research Scientist at Novartis - The Founder/CEO of True Hope Foundation International - A voice for the voiceless - A child of compassion, shaped by hardship, moved by love, and driven by truth “When you see injustice, silence is complicity. True hope is not in words — it’s in action.”