Changing the Lens: Rethinking Sex Work on Campus

Sex workers have long been marginalized and stigmatized. Sensational headlines, a voyeuristic gaze, and taboos around talking about sex often get in the way of genuine understanding.

Recently, Teen’s Key was invited to the University of Hong Kong to share our frontline experiences supporting young women working in the sex industry with students taking the “Introduction to Sociology” course. Our goal was simple: to help this community be truly understood and seen.

As times change, sex work is no longer confined to traditional formats. It has evolved into diverse new forms, such as online erotic photo selling and part-time girlfriend (PTGF) sex services. While the forms have changed, one harsh reality remains constant: sex workers continue to face physical, sexual, and verbal violence, along with high risks concerning sexual health and personal safety.

Our sharing at tertiary institutions is like planting seeds in the community. Today’s students are tomorrow’s advocates. We hope they will carry a strong gender lens into their future work, showing up with non-judgment and standing with every marginalized community.