Elliot Costello’s encounter with Thea, a 10-year-old Cambodian girl who had endured terrible abuse, led to a unique and impactful symbol — one painted fingernail. This small gesture became the foundation of the Polished Man movement, designed to bring attention to the suffering of millions of children.
Thea’s life was forever changed by loss and violence. After losing her father, her mother sent her to an orphanage where she was abused. Meeting Elliot gave Thea hope, and when she painted one of his fingernails, he vowed to keep it that way to remember her pain and inspire change.
The Polished Man campaign urges men to paint one nail in solidarity with the many children affected by abuse. The number “one” reflects that one in five children globally face sexual violence, a staggering tragedy we need to fight together.
Celebrities like Chris Hemsworth and Zac Efron have joined in to spread the message and raise funds. Over years, the campaign has collected millions for prevention and recovery efforts. Through awareness and action, this nail is more than a symbol—it’s a call to protect children and end abuse.
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