From Refugee to Graphic Designer: A Story of Resilience and Opportunity
Finding Refuge, Finding Hope
Albert Einstein, Madeleine Albright, Sergey Brinn, and Sigmund Freud – what do these influential figures have in common? They were all refugees, forced to flee their homes due to war or persecution. Today, over 110 million people worldwide share this experience, half of whom struggle with unemployment.
Ali’s Story: A Journey of Displacement and Determination
My name is Ali Barakat, a 37-year-old graphic designer from Damascus, Syria. My life used to revolve around my work in the vibrant city. But war shattered that normalcy. One day, on my way to work, a rocket attack left me injured. It was the beginning of a downward spiral.
Fleeing Syria, I embarked on a perilous journey. Our boat broke down at sea, leaving us on the brink of despair. Just when hope seemed lost, a rescue ship appeared as a beacon of light in the darkness. However, starting anew in the Netherlands was far from easy.
Challenges Faced by Refugees
The definition of a refugee, someone escaping war or persecution, feels restrictive. It doesn’t encompass those displaced by natural disasters, forced to abandon their homes and rebuild their lives elsewhere. The truth is, no one aspires to be a refugee. It’s a label thrust upon them by circumstance.
Asylum seekers, individuals awaiting refugee status determination, face similar challenges. Imagine Hadi, a refugee in Utrecht, struggling with the language barrier, a thick accent slowing down communication as he translates everything from Arabic to Dutch. He must adapt to a new culture, lacking a professional network and facing unrecognized certifications.
Despite his impressive portfolio showcasing excellent illustrations and design skills, the gap in his resume due to displacement raises questions. The skills honed during those challenging years – discipline, grit, and perseverance – are invaluable but often overlooked in traditional hiring practices.
Breaking Down Barriers: How We Can Help
Compliance concerns sometimes cloud the fact that hiring refugees is legal across Europe. Most countries have ratified the 1951 Refugee Convention, offering support to companies willing to open their doors to these talented individuals.
We must move beyond biases. Resumes with pictures, nationalities, and birthdates might trigger unconscious prejudices. Coaching programs can help refugees tailor their resumes to specific company cultures, increasing their chances of success.
The Power of Human Connection
Imagine the life-changing impact a simple introduction can have. By leveraging our professional networks, and connecting refugees with potential employers on LinkedIn, we can bridge the gap and create opportunities.
Ali’s story is a testament to the power of human connection. He found a job, thrived in his role, and continues to be a valuable asset to his company. His story, and countless others, illustrate the immense potential waiting to be unleashed when we offer refugees a chance to contribute their skills and talents.
This article highlights the challenges faced by refugees and the importance of creating a more inclusive job market. By recognizing their skills and resilience, we can empower them to rebuild their lives and contribute to society.
