The Refugee Ed Program at Mozaic is a holistic initiative designed to support refugees in their journey towards self-sufficiency, integration, and empowerment through education and skill development. The free of charge program is structured into six key components, each addressing a critical aspect of refugee support:
Professional Development focuses on preparing refugees for the workforce and career advancement. It includes career coaching, professional development workshops, job search assistance, and mentorship programs that connect refugees with professionals in their field of interest. This component also covers academic guidance to support continuous learning and skill enhancement, ensuring refugees are well-prepared for their chosen career paths.
To volunteer for this program, please take a moment to complete the application form
Vocational Training provides practical, hands-on training in various trades and professions to help refugees gain the skills needed for employment. Mozaic offers specialized classes such as the Mozaic Sewing Class and the Mozaic Refugee Kitchen, which provide training in textile work and culinary arts, respectively. The program also includes ServSafe certification, hospitality and customer service training, basic IT and office skills, and construction and maintenance skills training, preparing refugees for a wide range of job opportunities.
The Entrepreneurship component empowers refugees to start and manage their own businesses. Participants learn essential business skills such as business planning, customer service excellence, marketing and sales strategies, budgeting and accounting, operations management, and understanding legal structures and compliance. The program also emphasizes networking and relationship building, as well as innovation and product development, giving refugees the tools they need to succeed as entrepreneurs.
This component focuses on equipping refugees with essential language skills needed for daily life, vocational training, and employment. It includes ESL (English as a Second Language) courses, vocational language training tailored to specific industries, digital literacy for navigating modern technology, and financial literacy to help manage personal and family finances effectively.
Health and Well-being focuses on the overall physical, mental, and emotional wellness of refugees. This component includes mental health and wellness support, safety and rights education, and parenting guidance. The program ensures that refugees are aware of their legal rights and responsibilities and provides resources to help them maintain a healthy and safe environment for themselves and their families.
Each of these components is designed to work together to provide comprehensive support for refugees, helping them build a stable, successful, and fulfilling life in their new community. Through the Refugee Ed Program, Mozaic is committed to empowering refugees with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to thrive.
The first cohort of Mozaic Sewing Studio saw 17 Afghan women successfully graduate, gaining valuable sewing and textile skills. This program was more than just a class; it began with moments of thoughtful reflection, followed by hands-on sewing lessons, and shared breakfasts. Each session was complemented by ESL classes, helping the women improve their English language skills. We also introduced them to public transportation, making it easier for them to navigate their new surroundings.
Beyond the classroom, we organized free shopping events, celebrated special moments and occasions together, and fostered a deep sense of sisterhood. The program was filled with laughter, tears, and the forging of lasting friendships, bringing everyone together as one family.
We invite you to support our upcoming sewing studio cohorts, as we continue to empower more women through skills, connection, and community.
Discover the opportunities waiting for you at Mozaic Academy. Our refugee education programs are designed to empower individuals on their journey to self-sufficiency. Explore our diverse range of classes below to start your educational path today. Let’s learn, grow, and build a better future together.
Mozaic offers online ESL classes for adults, designed specifically for refugees and asylum seekers,
