Iris Collell (CC ‘26) spent eight weeks in Belgrade, Serbia, participating in ISHR’s Student Volunteer Program (SVP).
SVP pairs Columbia students with volunteer opportunities at HRAP alumni-led organizations. Since 2011, more than 40 students have gained field experience through SVP in countries including Kenya, Nepal, Sierra Leone, and Uganda. Iris wrote a reflection piece about her experience volunteering with NGO Atina, where she has been working with 2018 HRAP Advocate Marijana Savic. Marijana is the founder and executive director of NGO Atina.
“One thing I quickly learned is that no two days at Atina are ever the same. One week I found myself representing the organization at conferences alongside government officials, diplomats, and civil society representatives, listening to discussions about legislation and international cooperation against trafficking. Another week, I helped summarize unpublished research so its findings could reach a broader audience. My favorite part of that project wasn't writing; it was interviewing my colleagues who had spent months conducting fieldwork. Listening to the stories behind the research reminded me that every statistic represents a person, and every number reflects a life shaped by unique circumstances. I also had the opportunity to conduct research of my own, exploring barriers to economic empowerment for trafficking survivors and examining trafficking affecting boys and men, an issue that remains significantly underrepresented in anti-trafficking discussions despite affecting many lives,” said Iris.
Click here to read the full reflection on NGO Atina’s website.
Enrolled in a dual degree program between Columbia College and the School of International and Public Affairs, Iris graduated in May 2026 with a Bachelor of Arts in Human Rights and Comparative Literature & Society.
When discussing her experience with the Institute, Iris said: “I actually applied to Columbia because of ISHR and the opportunity to explore my interests as an undergraduate human rights major. Unsurprisingly, the institute continued to have a tremendous impact on me throughout my four years here. Many of the relationships I have come to treasure after starting college--friendships, academic ones, or through volunteering and field experience--stem from ISHR connections. Julia's guidance and support as my advisor were especially meaningful. She was the one who encouraged me to apply to the Miller Award, thanks to which I received Mr. Miller's generous support for this summer placement.
I'm so happy to be part of this community and I hope to continue making the most of it as I head into my last year at Columbia.”
