End Human Trafficking

Project Overview 

This project is a collaboration with the non-profit Kids4Freedom to create an educational game that empowers students (tweens, teens, or both) to recognize and respond to the dangers of online exploitation. The game aims to raise awareness about risks such as grooming, manipulation, trickery, and scams in a way that is engaging, age-appropriate, and safe, rather than like a lecture. Players will interact with scenarios where in-game characters may attempt to deceive, pressure, or manipulate them online. Through gameplay, students learn to identify red flags, make safer choices, and build confidence in navigating digital spaces. 

Faculty and Advising Team

• Yanhui Zhu (School of Computing, Montclair State University)

• Joyce Pour-azar (Kids4Freedom)

• Michelle Zhu (now at Kennesaw State University)

Student Developers

• Sanad Fraij

• Nicole Gallo

• Keerthi Katukojvala

• Syed Mohammed Abaan Abbas

• Maisha Farzana

• Israt Jahan Aunika

News Articles

• Creating For A Cause, University News, Montclair State University, May 22, 2026.

About Kids4Freedom

Kids4Freedom is an educational initiative created by Connect for Freedom for K-12 schools in New Jersey. Connect for Freedom is a non-profit that was founded in 2023. Its mission is to connect education stakeholders in K-12 schools to join the fight FOR FREEDOM from online exploitation and human trafficking in their schools and communities.