Elliot Costello’s journey through Cambodia took an unexpected turn when he crossed paths with a young girl named Thea. Little did he know that this encounter would deeply impact him, sparking a mission to combat the sexual abuse of minors.
During their conversation, Thea, whose nails were meticulously painted every day, asked Elliot to paint one of his nails. Nor did he oblige, he learned from her harrowing experience with sexual assault.
Moved by Thea’s story, Elliot felt compelled to take action. He founded the #PolishedMan movement, where men paint one nail to symbolize the one in five children who will endure sexual assault. The initiative aims to shift men’s attitudes and behaviors to reduce child sexual abuse globally.
With men responsible for 96% of such violence against children worldwide, Elliot believes they must lead the charge for change. By painting a nail, individuals spark conversations about child abuse and contribute to funding educational programs for survivors.
As the movement gains momentum, Elliot hopes to see more men, including public figures, join the cause, bringing us closer to a world where every child is safe from harm.