EXIT was founded in June 2006 while producing the short film “Greener Pastures”. This film portrays the story of a Nigerian woman who was trafficked for prostitution to Vienna. The no-budget film was made possible by the support of Austrian Film students. “Greener Pastures” was screened in schools in Edo State, Nigeria, to raise awareness among vulnerable youths.

These awareness activities in Nigeria were documented by the Austrian national Television channel, ORF 2 “Am Schauplatz”. The program aired in February 2007 and prompted multiple media responses. A further result of the airing of the documentation was that sex clients, who had heard similar stories from prostitutes on the street, contacted Mrs Reiterer. Through counselling these men, about 15 victims were reached. That´s how our social counselling started.

It is my pleasure to complete this report as a closing milestone marking the end of our work as Verein EXIT. It has taken a long journey to reach this stage. Since 2020, our focus has gradually shifted toward supporting projects in Nigeria, away from direct anti-trafficking intervention work in Austria, as we realised that prevention is often more effective than intervention.

This does not in any way diminish the enormous and important work carried out by many organisations in destination countries, as we ourselves did for more than a decade. However, after spending years counselling survivors and listening to their stories, it became increasingly clear that no one should have to experience such suffering in the first place.

This report offers a summary of a journey through two decades of work, impact, accomplishments, and lessons learned. I remain deeply grateful for the tremendous support we received throughout these years and proud of what we were able to achieve together.

As one chapter closes, a new one begins. Stay connected.

Yours sincerely,

Joana Adesuwa Reiterer

Founder, Verein EXIT

For two decades, EXIT has stood at the frontline of awareness, counseling, and prevention. From the screening of Greener Pastures in Edo State schools to the counseling of over 130 women in Austria and the creation of Joadre Mode, EXIT has used storytelling as a tool for change. Now, after 20 years, we are transforming. Why Transition? EXIT’s reports and experience revealed one powerful truth: stories can shift cultures, empower communities, and prevent exploitation before it begins. To deepen and expand this impact, EXIT will close as a legal entity and reemerge as Bold With Jo TYS (Tell Your Story). This is not an ending but a strategic evolution.

TYS is a filming and storytelling training program to empower and amplify African voices. It is built for African creatives who want to share their stories with the world.

Through TYS, every participant learns practical skills and produces a real project. This means African creatives not only tell their stories but also reach people across the world with their work. TYS is about more than skills; it’s about pride, identity, and giving African voices the stage they deserve. With TYS, storytellers gain confidence, tools, and opportunities to shape culture, inspire others, and reclaim the African narrative. Click to visit TYS Home >