Serving the community and making a real difference.

Lina, a native of Afghanistan who formerly worked with the United States embassy in Kabul, moved to the United States in 2017 to find, in her words, “more opportunities and more achievement in my life.”

But the transition proved more difficult than she had first anticipated. Although Lina was able to land an entry-level position in her new country, the work left her feeling unchallenged. Plus, she wasn’t earning enough to cover her living expenses and fulfill the dreams she had for herself.

Eventually, Lina enrolled in a language and employment program run by the International Rescue Committee under a grant administered by SETA.

An employment specialist helped her refine her resume and prepare for job interviews. “They always encouraged me and provided me with helpful information about jobs that I was interested in applying for.”

Lina soon secured more fulfilling job placements, eventually taking a position as a caseworker with the International Rescue Committee helping to resettle newly arrived refugees. It’s a task she finds deeply rewarding, because she sees so much of herself in her clients. “I feel really great because I came as the US as a refugee and I faced the same situation as other people face when they move here. I totally understand them and I feel them. It makes me feel proud to help them.”

The program that helped Lina accomplished more than employment assistance; it shifted her entire outlook.

“When you get a job you like, it changes you. I feel more confident about what I’m doing and can stand on my own feet,” says Lina. “I’m doing great, I appreciate my supervisor and I’m interested in moving up in the organization over time.”

Lina is hopeful that more refugees will be served by the same programs that helped her. “It’s not easy to move to a different country or learn about the culture. It takes time,” she attests. “Now I can help others access these services so they can achieve any goal they want.” ●