Hidden Girls is a project that supports girls who have survived domestic and/or sexual violence and now live in safe houses. Through our Trauma Relief Movement Program, we help them soften their trauma through dance and sports. Our unique training program launched in 2023 for girls in closed and semi-open shelters. We started in Mexico City, Rotterdam and Utrecht, reaching girls who, after traumatic experiences like human trafficking, abuse or violence, are cut off from the outside world for their own safety. The goal is to improve the girls’ mental, emotional and physical health, helping them regain trust in themselves and their future. Our program is now expanding nationally and internationally, with our impact validated through research in collaboration with the Radboud University.

Trauma settles in the body, in the part of the brain responsible for connection and trust. That’s why trauma experts recommend staying active after a traumatic event. Group activities like dance and sports stimulate new positive connections in the brain, breaking old patterns and creating a new reality. The Hidden Girls coaches are educated and supported by trauma experts and follow trauma informed training sessions within our Coaches Academy.

Across 13 shelters in the Netherlands, we reach between 100-150 girls every year with our dance, boxing and sports sessions. These safe and supportive activities help girls discover their strength, confidence and sense of identity.

“The feedback from the girls is very positive. They grow stronger, more confident, and can release their stress and frustrations.” – staff member of a shelter

In Mexico City we work in 5 safe houses located in vulnerable neighborhoods. The girls and young women have survived trafficking, sexual abuse and violence. Through weekly dance, boxing, fitness and basketball classes, we see them grow stronger, more confident, and less anxious. They learn to reconnect with their bodies, trust others, and work together.

“After the classes, the girls feel more energetic and less fearful.” –  coach in Mexico