Message from the Executive Director
June is a special month for our organization as we join communities around the world in recognizing World Refugee Awareness Month and World Refugee Day. It is a time to honor the resilience, strength, and contributions of refugees who have overcome extraordinary challenges in pursuit of safety, opportunity, and a brighter future for their families.
This month, we were honored to welcome community members to our World Refugee Day Tea Festival at George Mason University. Through tea, sweets, storytelling, and cultural exchange, we celebrated the rich traditions and hospitality of communities from Afghanistan, Bosnia, Egypt, India, Kashmir, Morocco, Palestine, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, Uzbekistan, Yemen, East Turkistan, and many more. The event served as a beautiful reminder that while our journeys may be different, our shared humanity brings us together.
June has also marked the beginning of an intentional summer of growth for the children and youth we serve. Our Summer STEM Immersion Program introduced middle school students to the exciting world of semiconductors, engineering, and technology through hands-on activities and mentorship from industry professionals. We were also excited to launch our College Application Prep Program for high school girls, equipping students with the knowledge, tools, and confidence they need to navigate the college admissions process and prepare for their future academic journeys.
At the same time, our Summer Art for a Cause program is off to a wonderful start. Young artists are developing their creativity and artistic skills while creating meaningful artwork that will be donated to bring comfort and joy to pediatric patients through our partnership with Arts2Hearts Foundation. These programs reflect our commitment to providing purposeful opportunities that foster learning, leadership, service, and personal growth throughout the summer months.
As we reflect on the significance of World Refugee Day, we are reminded that creating welcoming communities is a responsibility we all share. Every volunteer hour, every donation, every partnership, and every act of kindness helps make it possible for newcomer families to find belonging, build stability, and pursue their goals. Your support allows us to continue providing vital programs that empower refugees, immigrants, and underserved families throughout our region.
On behalf of our board, staff, volunteers, and the families we serve, thank you for standing with us and believing in the power of community. Together, we are building a future where everyone has the opportunity to heal, grow, and flourish.
Raghad Bushnaq
Founder & Executive Director
Mozaic
The Mozaic Digest
Supreme Court Decision Looms on Syrians' Protected Status
U.S. Supreme Court Clears Way for End of TPS for Syrians: On June 25, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the federal government may proceed with ending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for approximately 6,100 Syrians, allowing the administration to move forward with terminating work authorization and deportation protections. The decision also limits the ability of federal courts to review future TPS terminations.
Virginia Medicaid Updates
Several important Medicaid changes are beginning to affect Virginia residents as federal requirements are implemented over the coming months.
Beginning in 2026, certain adults enrolled through Virginia’s Medicaid Expansion will move to more frequent eligibility renewals every six months instead of annually. Members are encouraged to keep their mailing address, phone number, and email up to date and to respond promptly to any renewal requests to avoid interruptions in coverage.
Virginia has also announced that additional federal Medicaid eligibility requirements, including work and community engagement requirements for some Medicaid Expansion adults, are expected to be implemented beginning in 2027. These changes do not currently apply to children, pregnant individuals, seniors, or people who qualify for Medicaid based on disability.
If you or your family receive Virginia Medicaid, now is a good time to:
- Verify that your contact information is current with Cover Virginia.
- Watch your mail for renewal notices.
- Complete renewal paperwork promptly if requested.
Staying informed and responding quickly can help ensure uninterrupted health coverage for you and your family.
Mozaic Highlights
World Refugee Day Tea Festival
More than 100 community members came together at George Mason University to celebrate World Refugee Day through tea tasting, live demonstrations, storytelling, and cultural exchange. Guests explored the rich tea traditions of communities from around the world while learning how tea serves as a universal symbol of hospitality, connection, and resilience.
This memorable afternoon would not have been possible without the dedication of our incredible volunteers and the enthusiastic participation of everyone who attended. From Afghanistan, Bosnia, Colombia, Egypt, India, Kashmir, Morocco, Palestine, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, Uzbekistan, Yemen, East Turkistan, and beyond, the festival showcased the beauty of cultures that have enriched our communities and strengthened our shared humanity.
We extend our sincere appreciation to the Moroccan Student Union at George Mason University for their collaboration and support in making this event a success. Special thanks also to @uyghuramericanassoc and @simply_bosnian for sharing their beautiful tea traditions and cultural heritage with our guests. We are especially grateful to @mozaickitchendmv, our event sponsor, for helping make this celebration of culture, community, and connection possible.
Most importantly, thank you to every guest who attended, learned, connected, and celebrated with us. Together, we honored the resilience, diversity, and contributions of refugees while building bridges across cultures and communities. Together, we honored the resilience and contributions of refugees while building bridges of understanding—one cup of tea at a time.
Flavors of Resilience: World Refugee Day at Accenture
Mozaic was honored to be invited by Accenture to participate in its Flavors of Resilience World Refugee Day celebration, highlighting the richness of Syrian culture through food, storytelling, and community.
Damascinos, supported by Mozaic Kitchen, catered a delicious selection of authentic Syrian cuisine for the event. Guests also enjoyed a live cooking demonstration by Chef Fayzeh Saqbani, who showcased how to prepare traditional favorites including Baba Ghanoush, Muhammara, Fattoush Salad, and refreshing Mint Lemonade. The dishes were a tremendous hit with Accenture staff, who enjoyed learning about the history, flavors, and cultural significance behind each recipe.
Earlier in the program, Raghad Bushnaq, Mozaic Founder and CEO, Mozaic’s mission of empowering refugees and newcomers through education, workforce development, mental wellness, cultural programming, and community engagement. She highlighted the powerful role of food in fostering healing, reducing social isolation, and creating meaningful human connections, emphasizing how sharing a meal can become a universal language that bridges cultures when words fall short. We are grateful to Accenture for the opportunity to celebrate World Refugee Day together and to foster greater understanding of the cultures, traditions, and contributions of refugee communities.
Sewing Class Wraps Up Another Successful Season
After 8 weeks and 8 sessions, participants in Mozaic’s Sewing Class proudly celebrated the completion of another successful program under the guidance of volunteer instructor Cecilia Tran.
Throughout the course, students developed practical sewing skills while creating their own tote bags and aprons. They also learned essential techniques such as taking accurate body measurements, operating and maintaining sewing machines, and building the confidence to continue sewing independently.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Cecilia Tran for generously volunteering her time, expertise, and passion. Her patience and dedication created a welcoming learning environment where participants were encouraged to grow their skills and creativity.
We would also like to recognize our wonderful child minders, whose care and support allowed mothers to fully focus on learning during each class. Their contribution played an essential role in the success of the program, making it possible for participants to develop new skills while knowing their children were in safe and caring hands.
Congratulations to all of our participants on their accomplishments—we look forward to seeing the many creations that lie ahead!
Support Women’s Empowerment
Programs like our Sewing Class are made possible through the generosity of our community. Your donation helps provide sewing machines, fabric, supplies, childcare, and skilled instruction, giving refugee and immigrant women the opportunity to develop practical skills, build confidence, and work toward economic independence.
Help us continue creating opportunities for women to learn, grow, and thrive. Donate today at:https://mozaicdmv.org/donate
Kids’ Sira Club Celebrates Another Wonderful Year
Our weekly Kids’ Sira Club wrapped up another successful year with a fun-filled end-of-year celebration featuring creative art and science activities led by youth volunteer Esma Tuncer. Students enjoyed hands-on projects, cotton candy, hot chocolate, and snacks as they celebrated their accomplishments together.
Throughout the year, students explored the life and history of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), learning valuable lessons about kindness, honesty, compassion, and perseverance. Through engaging discussions and activities, they discovered how to apply these timeless teachings in their everyday lives. We are grateful to our dedicated teachers, volunteers, and families for making this meaningful program possible.
This year, half of our students participated through scholarships for refugee families, ensuring that every child had the opportunity to learn, grow, and belong regardless of financial circumstances.
Help Sponsor the Next Generation
Your generosity makes programs like Kids’ Sira Club possible. Donations help provide scholarships, classroom materials, educational activities, and a welcoming space where children can develop strong Islamic values, build lasting friendships, and grow into compassionate future leaders.
Help us continue opening doors for refugee and underserved families. Donate today at:https://mozaicdmv.org/donate
Summer STEM Immersion Inspires Future Innovators
Last June, 26 middle school students participated in Mozaic’s Summer STEM Immersion Program in partnership with Orblynx Academy and Micron.
Over two exciting days, students explored the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through engaging, hands-on experiences. They built electrical circuits, created their own light sabers, learned about robotics, explored the semiconductor industry, and worked together to develop STEM-based solutions to environmental challenges.
A highlight of the program was meeting with Micron staff, who shared insights into careers in engineering and advanced technology while inspiring students to imagine future possibilities in STEM. We are grateful to Orblynx Academy and Micron for providing such an enriching experience that sparked curiosity, creativity, and confidence in our young learners.
Morals & Manners Class Celebrates Graduates
Congratulations to our four graduating students—Moaz Ramadhan, Bilal Ramadhan, Ismail Abdelghany, and Malek Badran—who successfully completed Mozaic’s Morals & Manners program.
As part of their final assessment, the graduates delivered a special presentation and performed a skit demonstrating the character, values, and life lessons they developed throughout the program. They were celebrated by fellow students, parents, and family members during a joyful graduation ceremony.
A heartfelt thank you to Ms. Qurat Mir for her years of dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation through this impactful program. We are also deeply grateful to our volunteer drivers, who generously gave their time each week to provide transportation for students from beneficiary families. Their kindness ensured that transportation was never a barrier to learning and allowed every child to participate fully in the program.
We look forward to welcoming a new group of students when the Morals & Manners Class returns this fall.
Invest in the Next Generation
Programs like Morals & Manners are made possible through the generosity of donors and volunteers. Your support helps provide scholarships, educational materials, transportation assistance, and enriching learning experiences that empower children to develop strong character, leadership skills, and a lifelong love of learning.
Help us continue investing in our youth. Make a donation today at: https://mozaicdmv.org/donate
Building Peaceful Families Through Conflict Resolution
On June 13, Mozaic partnered with FAITH to host Building Peaceful Families Through Conflict Resolution, a one-day workshop led by Dr. Amr Abdullah. Participants explored practical strategies for navigating family conflict through effective communication, interest-based negotiation, conflict transformation, and Islamic principles that foster healthier relationships.
The workshop had a measurable impact. Evaluation results showed participants increased their knowledge of conflict resolution concepts, with average assessment scores improving from 67.5% to 77.5%. Participants also reported greater confidence in analyzing family conflicts, de-escalating emotionally charged situations, maintaining constructive dialogue during disagreements, and collaborating to find solutions. The greatest improvement was in their ability to communicate constructively during conflict.
These results demonstrate that even a single-day workshop can equip families with practical tools to strengthen communication, resolve conflicts more effectively, and build more peaceful, resilient homes. Mozaic is grateful to FAITH and Dr. Amr Abdullah for making this impactful program possible.
Bridge to Higher Education: College Application Prep Workshop
Our Bridge to Higher Education: College Application Prep Workshop is off to a fantastic start! The first session, led by volunteers Elham Fakhro and Lana Fakhro, engaged and inspired high school girls to begin thinking intentionally about their academic futures and the many pathways to higher education.
Students explored the college admissions process, discussed strategies for preparing strong applications, and gained valuable insight into setting goals early rather than waiting until senior year. The workshop is designed to equip students with the knowledge, confidence, and resources they need to make informed decisions about college and beyond.
As part of the program, participants are also looking forward to a planned field trip to local universities across the DMV, giving them the opportunity to experience college campuses firsthand and envision themselves pursuing higher education.
There are still spaces available for the remaining workshop sessions! Register today at:
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/bridge-to-higher-education-college-application-prep-workshop
Can’t attend but would like to make a difference? Consider sponsoring a beneficiary student. Your donation helps provide scholarships so refugee and underserved youth can access mentorship, college preparation, and opportunities that open doors to brighter futures.
Donate today and invest in the next generation: https://mozaicdmv.org/donate
In the Spotlight
Volunteer of the Month
Eman Mohamed
“Every day is a new opportunity to grow, start fresh, and change your life.”
Story of the Month
Zahra Hadizada: Building a New Beginning
To learn more about Sana Hairstyle or support her small business, visit her Instagram page: @sana_hairstyle_dmv.
Testimonies
Nada Unus, Community Member
“My children and I truly enjoyed this year’s Mozaic Tea Festival in honor of World Refugee Day. The energy and warmth of the event were palatable and the traditional teas and snacks were all delicious and served with such honor and love. The audience was as diverse as the countries represented. It was easy to see how tea has and continues to be a vector for community building and cross-cultural exchange. The whole event was a rich exercise in ethnobotony and my homeschooling children and I learned so much about native plants and herbs and how they are incorporated into the cuisines and cultures of more than a dozen countries represented at the fair. Two of our favorite tea experiences were the warming Palestinian cinnamon tea with shredded coconut and crushed walnut and the deep aromatic Bengali milk tea. And the Colombian coffee was a perfectly brewed perk up! I was so impressed by how organized and consistent the program was, and appreciate all the hard work of the staff at Mozaic and their team of volunteers. This event was more than just a presentation, it was a sincere invitation to step into each other’s worlds and taste the friendship we all have to offer.”
Heather Thornton, Community Member
“I wanted to reach out to express my appreciation for Mozaic’s wonderful World Refugee Day Tea Festival this past weekend. The work you’re doing to support refugees and immigrants is critically important, and I was happy to experience it firsthand.”
Mozaic Library Spotlight
No Other Words for Home by Jasmine Warga
Donate Today
Fuel Their Future
Upcoming Program
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
Join us for a five-week program designed to help girls build confidence, communication skills, and self-expression through a combination of art, discussion, and public speaking. Inspired by Aiyla’s own journey of finding confidence through art and debate, this program creates a supportive space where girls can explore important topics, share their ideas, and develop their voices.
Each two-hour weekly session explores a different theme—including identity, voice and power, community, justice and equity, and stereotypes. Through creative art projects, guided discussions, and beginner-friendly debate activities, participants will learn how to express their thoughts with confidence, engage respectfully with differing perspectives, and think critically about the world around them.
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.
Early Literacy & Kindergarten Readiness
Tuesdays beginning July 7, 2026 | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
5 Weeks
Led by Sarah Charah and Mozaic Volunteers
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/early-literacy-and-kindergarten-readiness
Scholarships are available for refugee families and others experiencing financial hardship. To apply for a scholarship, please email suryani@mozaicdmv.org.
Mozaic Echos Podcast S1E2
In the latest episode of the Mozaic Podcast, we welcomed Hurunnessa Fariad—Vice President of Strategic Funding & Relations at the Age of Light Foundation, Music Director of The ADAMS BEAT Choir, and Founder and Co-host of the Sister Act Podcast. Hurunnessa Fariad shared her inspiring personal journey of leadership, service, and faith, reflecting on the experiences that have shaped her commitment to empowering communities and building meaningful connections.
The conversation also explored the importance of civic engagement, nonprofit leadership, interfaith collaboration, and creating spaces where women and young people can thrive. Through her work in philanthropy, music, and media, Hurunnessa Fariad continues to inspire others to use their talents to uplift those around them. Watch the full episode on Mozaic’s YouTube channel and be inspired by her story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CJdVznDe3gI&t=2s
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
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






















