Written by Xiao Ma
Karina, a young mother from Ecuador, endured ten years of horrific abuse at the hands of her ex-boyfriend, with whom she had a daughter. The relationship was marked by constant emotional, physical, and sexual violence. She remained in the relationship for years because she was incredibly scared. But things took a darker turn when she finally found the courage to leave.
Her ex-boyfriend became obsessed, stalking her and threatening her life. One day, in a final act of terror, he forced his way into her apartment, beat her, and attempted to sexually assault her at knifepoint. All this happened as their daughter was watching and crying. Karina fought through it the entire time, refusing to submit and repeatedly warning him that she would call the police. Finally, he left. Even after this attack, he continued violating the order of protection she had secured. The Ecuadorian police failed to protect her, allowing her ex-boyfriend to roam freely, leaving Karina with no choice but to flee for her safety.
In May 2023, Karina arrived in New York City, hoping for safety and a fresh start. The journey had been grueling—she had crossed through Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala, and Mexico, all on foot, enduring 16 days of uncertainty, fear, and exhaustion. Reflecting on her journey, Karina said, “I walked for days, without knowing what was ahead. I didn’t know if I would reach my goal or die.”
It wasn’t until March 2024 that Karina found Nneka, a lawyer recommended to her by a friend. Nneka immediately recognized the strength of Karina’s case. “This is exactly the type of case that asylum is designed for,” Nneka explained. Karina had fled a history of abuse with no protection in her home country. She was at risk of harm.
With the assistance of Joan Hamilton, who translated her documents, Karina gathered all the necessary materials to support her claim. Her mother and sister also wrote letters of support, further strengthening her case. Nneka worked tirelessly to build a compelling argument for asylum, utilizing all the available evidence.
In addition, Nneka secured funding from the National Mental Health Evaluation Fund to cover the costs of a psychological assessment. The results of the evaluation highlighted the severe trauma Karina had endured, providing essential evidence for her asylum case.
Her trial was thankfully straightforward. Though the ICE attorney initially requested additional documentary evidence that hadn’t been submitted, the judge granted Nneka two extra weeks to provide it. When the trial resumed, Karina gave her testimony, the government asked their questions, and they were satisfied.
Finally, in January 2025, Karina received the life-changing news she had been waiting for—she was granted asylum. It was a bittersweet moment, as she could finally feel safe in the United States, but she still faced the pain of being separated from her daughter, whom she had left behind in Ecuador. “I miss my daughter so much. I want to bring my daughter here so she can be safe too,” Karina said.
While she was still waiting for her work permit, Karina remained hopeful for the future. Thanks to Nneka’s dedication and expertise, Karina found the strength to take the first steps toward a future filled with hope and new possibilities.
*Names have been changed in this story to protect friends and family in Ecuador.