Supporting Congolese Refugees in Education & Employment

They [a group of French-speaking Congolese refugees] were hopeful that this opportunity would mean an improved standard of living and a better life.

A resettlement agency in the United States was tasked with the important responsibility of helping a group of French-speaking Congolese refugees from Burundi transition to their new home. The agency decided to use the Tarjimly app for interpretation during the entrance interviews where they needed to answer a series of questions about the refugees’ education, employment history, and their dreams and aspirations. Their professional backgrounds varied, with experience working in bars, daycare centers, and beauty salons. They had established a life in their former homes, but due to circumstances had been forced to move to a new land. Though nervous, they were hopeful that this opportunity would mean an improved quality of life. In this new place, they each had a different dream, ranging from wanting to pursue higher education, to working in the government sector, to opening up their own restaurant. With the help of the Tarjimly volunteer who interpreted remotely, the resettlement agency was able to explain the initial steps of resettlement. The translator also helped explain the important tasks of getting a driver’s license and learning to be self-sufficient. The resettlement agency reassured the group that they would help them with job placement and gaining the relevant education to pursue their dreams. Everyone involved in the conversation was thankful for the assistance provided by the caseworker and the interpreter. Though the group’s journey would be a long and rigorous one, it has fortunately started off on a good note.