Not I But We is dedicated to dignifying work and dignifying women, inspired by the Ubuntu philosophy that emphasizes our inherent interconnectedness - "I am because we are." The initiative strives to cultivate a community of healing and hope. It emerged from a fundamental need to establish dignified employment prospects for survivors of trafficking in South Africa. The women involved often face limited opportunities and the risk of being drawn back into exploitative cycles they have escaped.

Many of these women lack formal education and come from underprivileged areas, a legacy of the detrimental effects of apartheid. Additionally, they bear the weight of complex trauma, which can make traditional employment exceptionally challenging. Not I But We addresses this by providing dignified work within a safe, trauma-informed environment, thereby restoring hope. Collaborations with safe houses and reintegration programs allow for personalized vocational training and employment opportunities. Through these efforts, Not I But We aims to disrupt the cycle of exploitation, equipping survivors with the essential tools to reshape their narratives.