Message from the Executive Director
Raghad Bushnaq
Founder & Executive Director
Mozaic
The Mozaic Digest
UNHCR Faces Major Funding Shortfall
Supreme Court Decision Looms on Syrians' Protected Status
Remembering Dr. Rania al-Abbasi and Her Children
Mozaic Highlights
Celebrating Mothers, Daughters, and Community
The celebration featured heartfelt speeches from daughters expressing their love and appreciation for their mothers, bouquet-making, crafts led by Girl Scout members, and delicious refreshments prepared by Girl Scout troop families. Mothers and daughters also enjoyed quality time together and received thoughtful gifts and gift cards to take home.
• The Baekehaus for delightful cake pops
• Olive Blossom VA for Karak Chai
• Yummies by Lala for a delicious pistachio rose bundt cake
• Sweet Siblings DMV for dessert cups
• Tulips & Turnips for Oliveda skincare samples
Their generosity helped create a memorable experience that celebrated the strength, love, and resilience of the mothers we serve.
A special thank you to Girl Scouts Troop 51091 for their compassion, leadership, and commitment to supporting refugee and immigrant families. Through their dedication and service, they helped create a day that our mothers and daughters will cherish for years to come.
Sharing Syrian Culture at Passport DC
Quilting Class, Creativity, and Connection
Growing Spiritually During the First Ten Days of Dhulhijjah
Gardening Workshop
Mozaic collaborated with Girl Scout Zahra Rasouli, and offered two Gardening workshops aimed at increasing awareness around food sustainability and the wellness benefits of gardening.
Participants had a wonderful time planting tomato, squash, and pepper seeds—many enjoying the simple joy of getting their hands into the soil. The workshop created a space for learning, connection, and hands-on experience.
On the last day of May, participants transferred the seedlings to raised garden beds at Aya Montessori. This tripartite collaboration brought joy to the participants as they know that the seeds they planted will be enjoyed by the students at the school! All participants also brought home hygiene kits donated by George Mason University’s Middle Eastern Pre-Health Society (MEPS).
If you are a Scout and would like to lead projects, reach out to Mozaic today at mozaic501c@gmail.com!
Sewing Class 101
Sewing Skills, Confidence, and Community
Our Spring 2026 Sewing Class 101 is well underway, and participants have now completed five sessions under the guidance of volunteer instructor Cecilia Tran. Women from both refugee and wider community backgrounds are learning foundational sewing skills and taking their first steps toward garment-making. With each class, participants gain greater confidence in using sewing machines, understanding patterns, and creating their own projects.
Beyond the technical skills being taught, the class has become a space for friendship, encouragement, and mutual support. It has been inspiring to watch women from different backgrounds learn alongside one another, share experiences, and build meaningful connections. For refugee participants, these relationships play an important role in fostering a sense of belonging and integration within the wider community. We are deeply grateful to Cecilia for generously sharing her time, patience, and expertise with our students.
Through the Mozaic Sewing Studio, women are gaining more than sewing skills—they are building confidence, strengthening social connections, and accessing pathways toward economic opportunity and financial independence. Help us expand our Sewing Studio and provide more women with tools, materials, and training opportunities. Your support directly empowers refugee and immigrant women to build sustainable futures. Donate today at mozaicdmv.org/donate.
Hooks & Books Youth Club Concludes Successful First Round
In the Spotlight
Volunteer of the Month
Noora Alhomsi
Noora Alhomsi began volunteering with Mozaic when she was just 14 years old, serving as a teacher’s assistant and lending a helping hand wherever it was needed. Over the years, her dedication, reliability, and passion for serving others have made her an invaluable member of the Mozaic family. Today, as a rising high school senior, Noora has taken on a leadership role as one of the instructors for our Kids Sira Club, helping to inspire and guide the next generation
Reflecting on her volunteer journey, Noora shared, “What attracted me to Mozaic is the community. When you volunteer, you don’t do it to show off or boast because it’s not something that can be seen. I love how you meet people from different cultures and countries, coming together with kindness. It’s also a space where you grow—when you serve, you grow internally.”
Story of the Month
Zain Alhelal
Zain Alhelal, a student at Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA), arrived in the USA in August 201. The war in Syria forced her family of six to seek refuge in the USA. Zain’s family connected with Mozaic in 2017, and every family member has attended various programs that Mozaic offers – from vocational training to business development and even character building classes.
Today, Zain’s family are home owners and business owners. Mozaic helped her mother, Nour alHuda, launch her home-based hairdressing and beauty salon. Her father works as an electrician, and Zain herself recently launched her own gift bouquet crafting business, Z&H Atelier.
“My connection with Mozaic goes back many years. My family has been involved with Mozaic since 2017, when Mozaic helped my mother launch her own home-based business.
Aspiring to be a surgeon, Zain has always wanted to start her own business and was inspired to launch Z&H Atelier after seeing a similar concept offered in the UK. ZH Atelier offers gift bouquets of flowers, skincare products, perfume, even cash that customers can request for any occasion. Find out more about Z&H Atelier at https://www.instagram.com/zhatelier/reels/
Testimonies
Asma Rehman, Wellness Volunteer, MSW, LCSW-R
Mozaic Library Spotlight
The Beekeeper of Aleppo by Nicky M. Wilson
Sponsorships
Grateful for Our Sponsors: Mozaic Mothers’ Day Celebration
A heartfelt thank you to our generous donors and sponsors for helping make the Mothers’ Day Celebration possible:
The Baekehaus (https://www.instagram.com/thebaekehaus/) for the delightful cake pops
Karak Chai from Olive Blossom VA (https://www.instagram.com/olive.blossom.va/)
Yummies by Lala (https://www.instagram.com/yummiesbylala/) for the delicious pistachio rose bundt cake
Sweet Siblings DMV (https://www.instagram.com/sweetsiblingsdmv/) for the delicious dessert cups
Oliveda skincare samples from @tulipsandturnips (https://www.instagram.com/tulipsandturnips/)
Your kindness and generosity helped create meaningful memories for the families we serve.
Donate Today
Fuel Their Future
To help clients face the pressures of rising gas prices, Mozaic is raising funds to help support our clients. These funds will go to ensuring that clients are able to pay for gas to attend workshops at Mozaic Center that will help them to achieve stability and self-sufficiency. Workshops include sewing classes, mental wellness workshops, programs for students and more.
Learn more about this campaign: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/peer-to-peer/fuel-their-journey-to-a-better-future
Upcoming Program
World Refugee Day Tea Festival
June 20, 2026 | 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Dewberry Hall, Johnson Center @ George Mason University, 4400 University Dr, Fairfax, VA
Join us for a special World Refugee Day Tea Festival as we celebrate the rich cultures, traditions, and stories that refugees bring to our communities. Through tea, one of the world’s most cherished symbols of hospitality and connection, we invite you to experience flavors and customs from different countries and cultures.
Enjoy a tea tasting experience featuring a variety of teas from around the world, paired with delicious sweets and treats. Learn about the history, traditions, and cultural significance of tea across diverse communities while discovering how this simple beverage has brought people together for generations.
Country exhibits include: Syria, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Sudan, Bangladesh, Jordan, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Palestine, India, Pakistan, Kashmir, Uzbekistan, Bosnia…and more!
Whether you are a tea enthusiast or simply looking to connect with others, this event offers a welcoming space to build new friendships, engage in meaningful conversations, and celebrate the spirit of community, belonging, and cultural exchange. Get tickets here: https://bit.ly/mozaictea26
Conflict Resolution Workshop for Families & Couples
📅 Saturday, June 13, 2026
⏰ 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
📍 Mozaic Center
46090 Lake Center Plaza, Suite 304, Sterling, VA 20165
Lunch and refreshments will be available for purchase, lovingly prepared by refugee entrepreneurs, with proceeds supporting their livelihoods. Space is limited to 20 participants to encourage meaningful participation and discussion. Register today: https://bit.ly/mozaicfamily
Summer STEM Immersion Program
For Students Entering Grades 6–8
June 24–25, 2026 | 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM
A Two-Day Hands-On STEM Experience
This program is open to students entering grades 6–8 and is designed to create a fun, welcoming environment where all students can explore STEM regardless of previous experience. Register here: https://bit.ly/mozaicstem
Scholarships are available for refugee families and others experiencing financial hardship. To apply for a scholarship, please email suryani@mozaicdmv.org.
Summer Art for a Cause
For Students 6 – 10 years old
Tuesdays beginning June 30, 2026 | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM | 6 Weeks
Led by Reem Almawaldi
Beyond art skills, this program encourages friendship, self-expression, and creativity in a supportive environment. Register here: https://bit.ly/mozaicart26
Scholarships are available for refugee families and others with financial need. To apply for scholarships, please email suryani@mozaicdmv.org
Finding Your Voice: Public Speaking & Creative Expression for Girls
For Girls Entering Grades 4–6
Wednesdays beginning July 8, 2026 | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
5 Weeks
Led by Aiyla Khawaja
Perfect for both outgoing and introverted girls, this program encourages self-discovery, leadership, and meaningful friendships. By the end of the five weeks, participants will have strengthened their public speaking abilities, expanded their creative skills, and gained the confidence to make their voices heard. Register: https://bit.ly/mozaicspeaking
Scholarships are available for refugee families and others experiencing financial hardship. To apply for a scholarship, please email suryani@mozaicdmv.org.
Bridge to Higher Education: College Application Prep Workshop
For High School Students (Grades 9–12) *Girls Only
Saturdays beginning June 27, 2026| 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
6 Weekly Sessions
Led by Elham Fakhro, George Washington University Undergraduate Student
Scholarships are available for refugee families and students experiencing financial hardship. To apply for a scholarship, please email suryani@mozaicdmv.org.
Opportunities to Get Involved
Volunteer With Mozaic
We are always looking for volunteers to support our community! From organizing books, to helping with transportation, research, and job search, there’s always a need to be filled! If you are keen to share your talents and give your time to Mozaic, Sign up here: https://mozaicdmv.org/contact-us/volunteer/
Resources for Immigrant Families in Northern Virginia
Below are trusted local and national organizations offering support to immigrant, refugee, and newcomer families in Northern Virginia. These resources provide assistance with healthcare, mental health, housing, education, employment, financial stability, and legal services.
Free Summer Programs in NOVA
Summer can get overwhelming. Here’s a list of free activities offered in Northern Virginia and DC that can help families plan for a fulfilling summer.
Job Opportunities in Fairfax and Loudoun Counties in Fairfax and Loudoun County
Here’s a resource for job seekers: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/u/0/d/1y4VA6iJetNAlOPXvmm_ZKF586vCBn0N5/htmlview?urp=gmail_link
Food Resources
Healthcare & Mental Health Support
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – Northern Virginia
Free support groups, mental health education, and multilingual resources to help individuals and families navigate mental health challenges.
🔗 https://nami-northernvirginia.org/
HealthWorks for Northern Virginia
Low-cost medical, dental, and behavioral health services for uninsured, underinsured, and immigrant families.
🔗 https://hwnova.org/
Neighborhood Health
Federally Qualified Health Centers offering primary care, behavioral health, women’s health, and dental services with sliding-scale fees.
🔗 https://www.neighborhoodhealthva.org/
Housing & Financial Support
United Way 211 Virginia
Free 24/7 hotline and online directory that connects families to housing assistance, food resources, financial support, and other services.
📞 Dial 2-1-1 | 🔗 https://211virginia.org/
Coordinated Services Planning (Fairfax County)
Helps families access emergency food, shelter placement, utility support, and short-term financial assistance. Interpretation services available.
📞 (703) 222-0880 | 🔗 https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/topics/registerapply
Education & Youth Resources
Parent Resource Center – Fairfax County Public Schools
Workshops, one-on-one support, special education guidance, and multilingual resources to help parents advocate for their children’s education.
🔗 https://www.fcps.edu/frc
Loudoun Literacy Council
English classes, reading support, and family literacy programming to strengthen learning at home and school.
🔗 https://loudounliteracy.org/
Ethiopian Community Development Council (ECDC)
Youth programs, ESL classes, family support, and refugee resettlement services in the region.
🔗 https://www.ecdcus.org/
Employment, Skills & Financial Empowerment
Virginia Career Works – Northern Region
Career centers providing job search assistance, training opportunities, resume help, and workforce resources at no cost.
🔗 https://vcwnorthern.com/
CASA
Offers workforce development, workers’ rights education, financial literacy support, and job readiness programs for immigrant workers.
🔗 https://wearecasa.org/
Immigration & Legal Assistance
Justice for Our Neighbors (JFON)
Provides low-cost and pro bono immigration legal services including TPS, asylum, family petitions, and work authorization support.
🔗https://www.immigrationadvocates.org/legaldirectory/organization.486633-Justice_For_Our_Neighbors
ImmigrationHelp.org
A free nonprofit online platform offering step-by-step tools for completing immigration forms such as work permits, green card renewals, and DACA applications.
🔗 https://www.immi.org/en
Restoration Immigration Legal Aid (RILA)
Pro bono immigration legal services focused on asylum and special immigrant juvenile cases.
🔗 https://www.restorationimmigration.org/
Just Neighbors
Provides immigration legal services and referrals to help low-income immigrants navigate the immigration system.
🔗 https://www.justneighbors.org/resources-for-non-citizens/
Legal Aid Justice Center
Offers civil legal advocacy and representation on issues that affect immigrant and low-income families.
🔗 https://www.justice4all.org/
📝 Please note: Services, eligibility requirements, and availability may change. We encourage families to contact organizations directly or visit their websites for the most up-to-date information.
💛 Building stronger communities, one story at a time.
📩 Mozaic Support
For direct support, program questions, or to get involved, contact us:
Email: info@mozaicdmv.org
Phone: 202-989-9000
✨ Donate today to sustain programs that nurture creativity, confidence, and community: mozaicdmv.org/donate
🙌 Volunteer with us and make a hands-on impact: mozaicdmv.org/volunteer
📅 Stay connected for future events and programs: mozaicdmv.org/events
Lending a Helping Hand to Build a Better Community
Refugees | Women | Children

























