OTTAWA, ONTARIO:
The Sex Worker Professional Development Fund (SWPDF) announces the awardees of our 2025 grants, Vera Carr and the Sex Worker Action Program (SWAP), whose proposals demonstrated the capacity to have a transformative benefit on their professional growth and that of the greater sex worker community in Canada.
Vera Carr is an Ottawa-based companion with nearly a decade of experience and a deep reverence for the healing potential of her work. This grant will help support her as she undertakes further studies through internationally recognized certifications. These trainings will be added to her already diverse skillset, allowing her to offer workshops and classes with greater depth, care, and intention. Her future offerings will be available to the general public, with dedicated programming created specifically for the sex work community. With a focus on trauma-informed, body-based practices, Vera is committed to cultivating spaces that center nervous system regulation, connection, and embodied empowerment.
Vera Carr stated, “I’m grateful for this opportunity to grow. With this support, I’m weaving new layers of care, presence, and purpose into my work—turning embodied knowledge into something shareable, tangible, and transformative. These next steps will allow me to serve with even more skill and heart, and to continue creating spaces where softness, safety, and strength can truly coexist.”
SWAP Hamilton is a non-partisan group that includes individuals with lived experience and is dedicated to supporting sex workers. The program provides a platform for sex workers to be heard, recognized, and supported with resources that ensure safety and well-being.
Jelena Vermilion, Executive Director of SWAP, stated, “We are excited to develop zines that integrate sex workers’ expertise into our collective consciousness.”
Ruby Lust, Administrative Coordinator for the SWPDF, added, “The Selection Committee believes these initiatives will significantly advance the applicants and our community. We are proud to support Ms. Carr, SWAP and their contributions to the industry.”
The Sex Worker Professional Development Fund (SWPDF), was established in 2023 by and for Canadian sex workers to support professional advancement through grants, mentorship, and guidance. The fund is inclusive of all genders, ages, affiliations, and sex work activities, and seeks to raise awareness of sex work as a valuable and valid form of labour.
For more information, visit https://pdfund.ca/
Press Contact:
Ruby Lust, Administrative Coordinator
PDFund@protonmail.com