Local Leader Looks To Break The Cycle Of Domestic Violence

CHICAGO, IL — Without community leaders, Illinois wouldn’t hum along nearly as smoothly as it does. We’d miss their contributions in big and small ways.

Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to recognize these often unsung community leaders and celebrate their contributions.

This submission comes from Sanjana Makkuni, a reader who nominated Rhea Makkuni.

How do you know this community leader?

sister

What does this community leader do?

Rhea has a non-profit organization called Safe&Aware which aims to break the cycle of domestic abuse by healing and transforming victims through self-defense while creating awareness about domestic violence. She has hosted workshops and presentations to raise awareness and provide tangible solutions to domestic abuse shelters. Among her efforts are panels with professionals, self-defense classes, hygiene kit drives, and awareness campaigns (blogging, social media, etc.).

Why do you believe the community leader should be recognized or honored?

Rhea discovered that tackling domestic abuse, especially within certain communities, requires a nuanced approach to break through the stigmas associated with these issues.

In particular, Rhea found resistance within Indian culture, where the normalization of certain behaviors hindered progress. Addressing these deep-seated attitudes demand patience, education, and unwavering commitment– all qualities Rhea and her team at Safe&Aware possess

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the community hero?

Rhea's passion lies in transforming individuals from vulnerability to strength, and the emergence of empowered voices. Her goals of urging us to shift our perspectives, tuning our brains to recognize wrongs, and standing up against normalized injustices resonate among all of us.

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Know a community leader who deserves a shout-out?

Nominate them here.