n 2013, Australian social entrepreneur Elliot Costello met a young girl named Thea while visiting an orphanage in Cambodia. Just 10 years old, Thea had survived profound trauma—losing her father and enduring abuse in the very place meant to protect her. Yet despite everything, she radiated kindness and resilience. One night, during a quiet moment of connection, she painted one of Elliot’s fingernails. It was a playful, simple act—but for Elliot, it became a powerful symbol. He made a silent vow: he would always keep that nail painted in her honor.

That moment with Thea became the catalyst for Polished Man, a global movement Elliot later founded. The campaign invites men to paint a single fingernail, representing the 1 in 5 children worldwide who experience sexual violence before the age of 18. What began as a tribute to one child grew into a bold statement—challenging toxic silence and inspiring men to take a stand. More than a visual symbol, the painted nail became a way to start difficult, necessary conversations about abuse and prevention.

Polished Man quickly evolved into a powerful fundraising platform as well. Since its launch, the campaign has raised over $8.7 million, funding programs that focus on both prevention and healing—from trauma recovery and legal aid to safe spaces and education for at-risk children. The initiative has captured the attention of the world, with public figures like Chris Hemsworth, Zac Efron, and Kelly Slater proudly painting a nail in solidarity.