Note: The name of this program participant has been changed to maintain anonymity.
When Sofia arrived in the United States with her 9-year-old son and 7-year-old daughter, she brought with her a wealth of experience in early childhood education.
As she navigated the challenges of establishing a new life in Los Angeles while caring for her own children, Sofia’s deep commitment to nurturing children’s development became the foundation for her path to self-sufficiency.
After connecting with JVS SoCal, Sofia met with a case manager in the Refugee Employment and Acculturation Services (REAS) Program who helped assess her skills and experience. Having worked as a kindergarten teacher in Ukraine for over eight years, Sofia possesses valuable expertise in child development, educational activities, and creating nurturing environments for young learners. Her case manager recognized that these skills could translate well to the American childcare market, particularly within communities seeking culturally diverse childcare options.
“My case manager helped me understand that I could use my experience to create my own childcare service,” Sofia explains. “He connected me with resources to learn about American childcare standards and regulations, which was essential for starting my business properly.”
Sofia also learned about American establishing rates, creating contracts, and managing her finances as a self-employed professional.
By April 2025, Sofia began providing babysitting services to two families in her neighborhood. Her reputation for reliability, creativity, and genuine care for children quickly spread through word-of-mouth referrals. Today, Sofia maintains a roster of regular clients and offers both part-time and full-day care options.
What sets Sofia’s childcare services apart is her educational approach. She incorporates elements of early childhood education into her daily activities, introducing children to both English, Russian, and Ukrainian languages through songs, stories, and games. Parents particularly value her emphasis on creative play and limited screen time.
“I believe childcare is more than just watching children – it’s about creating opportunities for growth and learning,” Sofia shares. “Each day, I try to bring a little bit of educational value while ensuring the children feel safe and happy.”
Beyond the financial independence her business provides, Sofia has found that working with children has eased her own transition to life in the U.S. .The connections she has built with families have expanded her support network and improved her English skills. Her own children, now 12 and 10 years old, have also benefited from these relationships, adapting well to their new school and making friends in the community.
Looking toward the future, Sofia is exploring options to expand her services by offering structured playgroups for multiple families and potentially developing a small in-home preschool program. She continues to participate in professional development opportunities through JVS SoCal and local early childhood education networks.
Sofia’s journey demonstrates how immigrants can successfully transfer professional skills across borders while adapting to new markets and regulations. Her story is a testament to the power of combining existing expertise with proper guidance and a willingness to rebuild professionally in a new country.
If you’re inspired by Sofia’s story and would like to help someone else achieve their dream, please donate today.