In 2008, I migrated from Trinidad and Tobago to the US to be a graduate student at NYU. Prior to migrating, for about 6 years, I was working in HR in the financial and professional services sector. After graduating in 2010, with an MSc. in Human Resource Management & Development, I continued working in HR, primarily in the INGO industry.
Like many of you in the US, I went through the nail-biting process of being approved for an F1 visa, applying for OPT and then seeking and obtaining H1B visa sponsorship. I obtained a Green Card through the Diversity Visa Lottery Program in March 2013 and in January 2019 became a US citizen.
While this may not be your exact path, it may resemble your path or aspirations as an immigrant or refugee. Education and continuous learning are very important to me. I determined before I arrived in the US, that I would not stay illegally because I wanted the right to work, other rights and benefits and to remain marketable as an HR professional.
Beyond these basic needs that immigrants and refugees have, I also have needed community, inclusion and a sense of belonging to thrive. Therefore, I have had to be intentional in developing relationships with those who accepted me. However, I have learnt that building community can be easier in some locations and organizations than in others.
The services developed and provided through Accentuate! are a combination of my knowledge and skills gained from my academic and professional credentials; my years of experience in HR and my experiences as an immigrant.
You can connect with me on LinkedIn andhere on Accentuate.
