Supporting Afghan Newcomers with Professional Backgrounds: Barriers, Opportunities, & Resources

This webinar is presented by Switchboard, a one-stop shop for refugee service providers in the United States. Learn more about Switchboard at www.SwitchboardTA.org.

Hosted on October 12, 2022 the training was delivered by Rebecca Fishman, Afghan Response Coordinator @Upwardly Global and Shabnam Manati, Onboarding Associate @Upwardly Global. Afghan newcomers bring a range of skills, education levels, and professional backgrounds to their new communities in the U.S. Some worked alongside the U.S. government or military and bring experience in high-demand industries like information technology, finance, engineering, healthcare, or logistics and operations. Finding work at one’s skill level can be difficult. Providers supporting these clients in their career journeys often encounter challenges related to providing job readiness coaching and support, navigating licensure and certification requirements, teaching “soft skills” like interviewing and networking, and navigating employer bias.

This webinar will discuss specific barriers and opportunities facing Afghans with professional backgrounds as they seek meaningful career pathways and employment.

By the end of this webinar, you will be able to:
– Understand the barriers and opportunities that Afghan newcomers with professional backgrounds face; and
– Develop ways to support clients with professional backgrounds find new employment opportunities in the US.