A life dedicated to social justice and humanitarian advocacy defines the work of Rebecca McDonald, who has focused on empowering those at risk of exploitation and abuse. As the founder and president of Women At Risk International (WAR Int’l), a Michigan-based nonprofit, her tireless efforts have created circles of protection for vulnerable populations. Through her leadership, survivors of trafficking, abuse, and exploitation have found healing, safety, and opportunities to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.
Ms. McDonald’s academic journey prepared her for the complexities of international humanitarian work. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in World Religion and Philosophy from Cornerstone University, equipping her with a broad perspective on diverse cultures and belief systems. She also pursued graduate coursework at Michigan State University and Harvard University, further enhancing her knowledge and ability to address global social justice issues.
Ms. McDonald’s unique upbringing also shaped her commitment to serving others. Raised in East Pakistan, now Bangladesh, by a surgeon father and an artist mother, she grew up in a household centered on humanitarian work. Her father’s construction of a hospital in the jungles of East Pakistan and her mother’s dedication to teaching widows in remote villages instilled in her a profound sense of purpose. Her childhood, marked by resilience in the face of war and cultural challenges, provided her with a deep understanding of the importance of compassion and advocacy.
A pivotal moment in her professional path came when Ms. McDonald resolved to give a voice to those silenced by violence and exploitation. Harrowing experiences, including the sexual assault of a friend due to cultural violence, reinforced her determination to create safe spaces for women and children. This mission culminated in the formal establishment of WAR Int’l as a 501(c)(3) organization. Though officially founded in 2006, Ms. McDonald had been leading impactful programs for decades, offering survivors the tools to rewrite their stories and embrace new opportunities. Her work transcends traditional metrics of success. Ms. McDonald measures her achievements not by financial gain or international reach but by the lives she has transformed. She takes pride in empowering individuals to break free from cycles of abuse and exploitation, witnessing their progress as they reclaim their futures and impact subsequent generations.
Ms. McDonald credits her parents for instilling compassion and integrity in her life. Their unwavering dedication to humanitarian work served as a guiding example, shaping her belief in the importance of standing up for the vulnerable. She also acknowledges the influence of her professors, who encouraged critical thinking and exploration, as well as the strong role models she encountered during her father’s hospital work. These mentors, along with her husband, who holds a PhD in international development, have supported her journey and provided invaluable inspiration.
Under Ms. McDonald’s leadership, WAR Int’l has gained widespread recognition. She has received numerous awards for her work, including accolades from the Daughters of the American Revolution and the World Trade Association. As a member of Rotary International, she remains actively engaged in civic efforts that align with her mission to protect and empower the vulnerable. Beyond her professional achievements, Ms. McDonald finds joy in her family. She and her husband raised three sons and a daughter while dedicating themselves to international development and humanitarian advocacy. She treasures her time with her grandchildren, reflecting on the legacy of compassion and resilience she continues to pass down.
In pursuit of her long-term aspirations, Ms. McDonald aims to secure significant funding to expand WAR Int’l’s reach and impact. With a goal of raising $100 million, she is committed to equipping the organization with the resources needed to combat human trafficking and provide hope to those at risk. Her life’s work exemplifies the transformative power of empathy, determination, and leadership, inspiring others to join the fight against exploitation and create lasting change for generations to come.