Pery, from Afghanistan, was eight months pregnant with her first child when she and her husband arrived in the United States with only two suitcases nearly five years ago.

“I had received my law degree and became a supervising professor… I had a very good job… Then, everything became dangerous.” When the Taliban took over Afghanistan, women were no longer allowed to work. “We had no job, no home and no work. We had to leave.”

Pery described her early experiences in the U.S. “Our IRC caseworkers were so helpful and very honest with us… Since I was a professor in Afghanistan, I initially thought that I could easily become a professor here… It was shock to learn that my degree would not transfer over… I had to start my career in the United States at an entry-level position.” Pery also recounts always needing an interpreter in those days as her English was very basic.

With help from IRC’s employment team, Pery accepted a job at a daycare. The transition was hard. “After my first day, I called [my caseworker] and asked her when I can quit.” After being encouraged to stay for at least two months, Pery recalled the strength she had seen in herself on her journey to a safer life. She thought to herself, “I can do that. I can work at this daycare for two months.”

Three months later, she realized she not only enjoyed the work but excelled. She advanced quickly from Teacher’s Assistant to Teacher, Full-Day Teacher, and now serves as preschool director.

Each promotion required online certifications, and while she had used computers in Afghanistan, U.S. workplace technology felt unfamiliar. When she learned about the IRC in Montana's Digital Literacy class, she eagerly enrolled. Key skills she gained included typing, online scheduling, using Uber and Canva. “This is very good for my work, as I have to make fliers for the families at the daycare.”

An unexpected outcome was becoming an author of four children’s books created on Canva to teach her children her native languages. The daycare owner now encourages her to read them to students to promote bilingual learning.

Since resettling, Pery reflects on her journey with pride in her strength and perseverance. She has built a new life, welcomed another child, a daughter, and has become fluent in English. 

“I am very proud of myself of all that I did to come here… I am safe now. My family is safe… I am so glad that my daughter will be able to go to school and be respected.”

Pery hopes to continue building her digital skills and dreams of taking future classes in presentations and slideshows as she continues to grow personally and professionally.

Through the Digital Skills Grant, the IRC in Montana served 120 individuals and provided 659 hours of trainings.