About us

Openaid was founded in 2002 by Director Justin Whitecross. After almost 10 years spent working with remote villages in Asia, Justin felt there was a real gap in the amount of aid being directed towards girls and women in Thailand’s sex industry. He felt strongly that there was a need to stop ignoring the abuse and exploitation endemic in the multi-billion dollar sex industry and instead develop strategies to prevent young girls and women from being propelled into the trade.

Openaid was the result of this vision. Over the years since it began, Openaid has enriched the futures of many young Thai girls by keeping them in school, providing economic opportunities for their families and by giving them the confidence and skills to take control over their lives and avoid the pulls of the sex industry. Justin has worked tirelessly to cultivate and nurture the partnerships with Thai villages, donors and staff and volunteers that have enabled Openaid to do this amazing work.

The work of Openaid will continue to grow. Our team is now made up of Thai, Burmese and Australian staff and volunteers whose passion, skills and stamina are the foundation of the organisation. We believe wholeheartedly that truly positive change can only occur through a commitment to ongoing learning, listening and respect. We will remain committed to these values as we continue to protect girls at risk from the pull of the sex industry in Southeast Asia.