Our Team
At the heart of Survivor Network NC, you'll find a dedicated and resilient team of survivor-leaders and professionals who are passionate about empowering survivors. Committed to making a difference in the lives of survivors and combatting human trafficking, our team is a testament to the power of resilience and the strength of the human spirit. Each member brings a unique blend of personal experiences, professional expertise, and unwavering passion to the cause.
Latiana Appleberry
Executive Director
Shelby Thompson
Associate Director
Lala is a survivor-leader, founder and executive of SNNC. For 10+ years she has worked directly with minor victims of sex trafficking and 15+ years of consultancy experience. She has a Master's in Clinical Social Work.
Shelby is a survivor-leader who works with survivors in Cumberland County. She provides case management, works with law enforcement, HT units, and the DA's office. She is a graduate of Elevate Academy and Operations Manager for Gate Beautiful.
Jasmine Meyers
Funding and Grants Director
Jasmine is a survivor-leader who obtained her Master's in Science of Social Administration. She serves on several Survivor Advisory Councils and is dedicated to advocating and supporting survivors as they heal.
Sarah Hardman
Director of Survior Services
Open Position
Speakers Bureau Advisor
Rev. Sarah is a survivor-leader with 10+ years of advocacy experience. She has a Master's in Theology from Fuller Seminary, pastors an interfaith church, and is a Diversity & Inclusion coach.
Teisha Spaid
Intern & Speakers Bureau Assistant
Teisha is an NCSU student working towards her Master of Social Work degree. She is gaining experience as SNNC's first intern. Teisha has served in AmeriCorps and aspires to use her degree to join the fight against human trafficking.
Board of Directors
Complementing our survivor-leader advisory board, our board of directors bring years of expertise in areas such as counseling, law, advocacy, and education. They provide invaluable support, ensuring our programs are effective and impactful. Together, we are a united force against human trafficking, working tirelessly to raise awareness, provide resources, and create a world where survivor-leaders lead the way. Meet the remarkable individuals who make it all possible.
Rachel Parker
President
Rachel is the director of interpersonal violence services in Forsyth County. Prior to this, she led World Relief Triad's Anti-Human Trafficking Program for 11 years. She completed her Masters on International Studies from East Carolina University.
Aaron Jacobson
Secretary
Aaron is the supervising attorney with FWU of Legal Aid of NC. He is a graduate of UNC Chapel Hill School of Law. Aaron has represented countless immigrant victims of violence including both labor and sex trafficking survivors. He served on the board of NCCAHT and had an advisory role in the creation of SNNC.
Kara Matthews
Treasurer
Rev. Kara is an ordained elder within the UMC. She has a Masters of Divinity and has spent more than 20 years in ministry serving marginalized communities including victims of violence. She serves as an advocate for the members of SNNC.