When Nina (her name has been changed to protect her identity) arrived in the United States from Ukraine in April 2024, with her husband and 9-year-old son, she faced the challenge of establishing a new life during uncertain times.
Despite leaving behind her home country due to the ongoing conflict, Nina approached her new beginning with determination and resilience.
Shortly after settling in Los Angeles, Nina enrolled in the Refugee Employment Program, a DPSS program operated by JVS SoCal. .During her initial meeting with her case manager, she shared her previous experience working in hospitality in Ukraine, where she had developed strong customer service skills and knowledge of beverage service. While she had some experience mixing drinks at a small café in Kyiv, she had never worked specifically as a bartender.
“When I first met with my case manager, I wasn’t sure if my skills would transfer to the American job market,” Nina explains. “The language barrier was my biggest concern, but I knew I could learn quickly if given the opportunity.”
Recognizing Nina’s potential, her job developer at JVS SoCal helped her refine her resume to highlight her transferable skills and provided guidance on workplace culture in American hospitality settings. Additionally, her job developer connected her with English language resources specifically focused on hospitality terminology and customer service phrases.
Through JVS SoCal’s employer connections, Nina was introduced to the management team at an upscale bowling alley and entertainment venue that offers a full-service restaurant and bar. The hiring manager was impressed with Nina’s enthusiasm and willingness to learn, offering her a position as a bartender with on-the-job training.
Nina quickly adapted to her new role, mastering the venue’s signature cocktails and building rapport with customers. Her warm personality and dedication to providing excellent service have made her a valued team member from her very first week.
“Working (here) has been wonderful for me and my family,” Nina shares. “Beyond the income, which is essential for us as we build our new life, I’ve found a supportive community among my coworkers who have helped me improve my English and understand American customs.”
The position has provided Nina with stable employment and a predictable schedule that allows her to be present for her son before and after school. Her husband has also found employment in construction, making their transition to life in the United States more secure.
Looking ahead, Nina hopes to continue developing her skills. Her manager has already discussed possibilities for advancement, including training in management aspects of food and beverage service.
Nina’s successful adaptation to a new career in a new country demonstrates the importance of identifying transferable skills and finding employers willing to invest in motivated employees. Her journey illustrates how determination, combined with targeted employment support, can help refugees find not just jobs, but meaningful career paths in their adopted homeland.
If you’re inspired by Nina’s story and would like to help someone else achieve their dream, please donate today.