Rhiana Spring is an international human rights lawyer and award-winning tech entrepreneur. As Founder and CEO of Spring ACT, she works to empower people impacted by domestic violence worldwide to live a life free from violence. Survivors of domestic violence form a core part of the team on every level. Each feature is designed with their insights, shaped by input from experts and volunteers from 40 countries.

“We refuse to accept the status quo of systemic violence against women and strive to build tools that empower individuals and communities to create impactful change.”

What will the Stanley Creators Fund make possible for Spring ACT?

1 in 3 women experience domestic abuse in their lifetime. Yet only 40% ever reach out for help. The Stanley Creators Fund grant will make it possible for us to further develop our flagship AI chatbot ‘Sophia’. This is the world’s first AI-driven messaging chatbot that empowers people impacted by domestic violence to gather potential evidence, learn about their rights and options, and seek help wherever they are in the world, 24/7. Sophia is free, multilingual, and leaves no digital trace.

Stanley Creators Fund celebrates the Creators, Builders, and Inventors among us. What does it mean to you to be a Creator, Builder, and Inventor?

It means that we don’t just envision a better future for all; we actively build it. It means we have the chance to create a more just world for ourselves and others through our innovative initiatives.

What drives you? Or, said differently, what’s your “why?”

My "why" is a deep-rooted drive for social justice. This is more than a job for me. It’s a lifelong commitment to creating an equitable world. It’s about challenging the systems that perpetuate injustice and building solutions for us all to take action.

What about Stanley 1913 makes you excited for this grant and partnership?

We are excited about the opportunity to collaborate with a global, values-driven brand like Stanley 1913 that champions innovation to meet the needs of diverse communities. Addressing a pervasive global issue like violence against women needs strong, innovative, cross-sector partnerships that transcend borders. Together, we can accelerate the impact and availability of life-saving initiatives to as many people in need as quickly as possible.

“Grant funding from Stanley 1913 represents a powerful alignment of values, where resilience meets innovation. Together, we can forge tools and support systems that not only endure but also transform lives.”

Grant funding for Spring ACT was made in partnership with GlobalGiving.