International Day of Charity: Supporting Refugees Through the Power of Giving
Every year on September 5th, the world observes the International Day of Charity—a day created to raise awareness and mobilize people, organizations, and communities to help those in need. While charity often brings to mind monetary donations, its true power goes far beyond financial support. Charity is about kindness, compassion, and extending opportunities to others […]
Team Spotlight: Melissa Benjamin’s Journey and Contributions to Jumpstart Refugee Talent
At the heart of Jumpstart Refugee Talent is a community of individuals driven by resilience, compassion, and a commitment to empowering newcomers. One such individual is Melissa Benjamin, one of Jumpstart’s board members, whose personal journey and professional dedication exemplify the spirit of the organization. Melissa Benjamin is the Interim COO and VP of […]
A Tour at Romero House: Where Refugees Find Home, Community, and Hope
On July 23rd, 2025, I had the pleasure of joining the Jumpstart Refugee Talent team for a special tour of Romero House, located in downtown Toronto. Although it was a beautiful summer day, what made it truly memorable wasn’t just the sunshine, it was the warmth and humanity we experienced inside the homes of Romero […]
A Day in My Role at Jumpstart Refugee Talent
A Day in My Role at Jumpstart Working at Jumpstart Refugee Talent is more than just a job; it is a daily reminder of how powerful stories, collaboration, and community can be in transforming lives. In this blog, Yaseen Hemzawi would like to take you behind the scenes of what a typical day in his […]
Beyond the Resume: Rahima’s Global-Mindedness

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: Rahima’s Global-Mindedness When refugees arrive in Canada, they carry more than just their suitcase, if they even have that. They bring with them years of experience, rich educational […]
Elegant Art – The Story of a Young Entrepreneur
Elegant Art – The Story of a Young Entrepreneur In celebration of International Youth Day, on August 12th, 2025, Jumpstart is proud to highlight the voices and creativity of young changemakers around the world. This day is a powerful reminder of the potential youth hold in shaping a more just, inclusive, and compassionate future. To […]
Ask Me Anything: Understanding Employer Expectations & Navigating HR in Canada
Ask Me Anything: Understanding Employer Expectations & Navigating HR in Canada On August 6, 2025, Jumpstart Refugee Talent hosted an informative “Ask Me Anything (AMA)” virtual session titled “Understanding Employer Expectations & Navigating HR in Canada.” This webinar was designed to support newcomer refugees who are interested in human resources (HR) landscape or navigating the […]
What Happens After a Refugee Lands a Job? Navigating the Next Chapter of Settlement
What Happens After a Refugee Lands a Job? Navigating the Next Chapter of Settlement For many refugees, landing a job in their new country is a huge milestone. It represents more than just a paycheck. It is a symbol of stability, purpose, and the chance to rebuild a life that was once disrupted. However, while […]