The Value of Volunteerism: Time, Impact, and Belonging
The Value of Volunteerism: Time, Impact, and Belonging My name is Yaseen, and volunteering has been one of the most consistent and meaningful threads in my life. For almost ten years, across Syria, Turkey, and Canada, volunteering has shaped who I am both personally and professionally. It has given me skills, confidence, community, and a […]
When Systems Fall Short, Volunteerism Steps In
When Systems Fall Short, Volunteerism Steps In Around the world, non-profit and refugee-serving organizations are facing mounting pressure as the cost-of-living rises, migration patterns shift, and funding for international aid declines. At the same time, needs related to food security, settlement support, and workforce integration have become more complex and urgent. In this context, […]
Huda Journey to Reshaping Global Modest Fashion
Where Challenge Meets Calling Meet Huda Alkasem, the visionary founder of Huda Luxe Modesty. Her story is not just about fashion; it’s a testament to resilience, community spirit, and the power of turning a personal challenge into a thriving business. Originating from Syria, Huda’s path led her from Turkey to Canada, carrying a crucial mission: […]
Beyond the Resume: Khaldoun’s Overlooked Credentials
Beyond the Resume is a storytelling series that reframes refugee professionals not as resettlement cases, but as global connectors and economic catalysts in Canada. Skilled, but Overlooked: The Reality of Credentials in Canada When Khaldoun Albadr arrived in Canada in September 2023, he brought with him more than the trauma of displacement—he carried years of […]
Beyond the Resume: Felix, Tech Professional, On Navigating New Codes
Beyond the Resume is a storytelling series that reframes refugee professionals not as resettlement cases, but as global connectors and economic catalysts in Canada. Starting Over with Purpose Starting over in a new country is never easy. It comes with unknowns, uncertainties, and often, a sense of being one step behind. But for Felix Sosa, […]
Beyond the Resume: Yaseen, Community Leader Rebuilding from Scratch
Beyond the Resume is a storytelling series that reframes refugee professionals not as resettlement cases, but as global connectors and economic catalysts in Canada. Beyond the Resume: Yaseen’s Journey with Hope and Persistence Yaseen Hemzawi, a communications team member at Jumpstart Refugee Talent has lived the refugee experience firsthand. He fled from Syria to Turkey […]
Soumak Boutique: Empowering Refugee Women Through Craftsmanship
Rasha Youssef never set out to run a boutique, but when the opportunity arose to build something meaningful with her business partner, Elvira Seydaliyeva, she embraced the challenge. Rasha arrived in Canada as a refugee from Syria in 2014, while Elvira came from Azerbaijan in 2020, bringing with them a deep appreciation for the rich […]
Building Beauty from Adversity The Story of MarieBeautyHub
Building Beauty from Adversity The Story of MarieBeautyHub At Jumpstart Refugee Talent, our Refugee Marketplace isn’t just about products—it’s about people. It’s about the determination, resilience, and creativity that refugee entrepreneurs bring to their new communities. Today, we’re honored to share the journey of one of our newest vendors: Maria Namayengo, the founder of MarieBeautyHub, […]