As professional musicians, Fadi Iskandar and his wife were forced to seek asylum because of the war in Syria. It was a long process, but they received asylum and now Fadi is a proud U.S. citizen raising his three daughters with his wife. Resettled in Tucson over 13 years ago, Fadi and his family rebuilt their lives by centering community and art. Playing since the age of 10, Fadi is a master violinist frequently performing at Tucson events such as World Refugee Day and teaching at the Music and Dance Academy. His three daughters are becoming musicians in their own right, learning both the piano and violin.  

Fadi Iskandar performs violin before the Tucson World Refugee Day event.
Fadi Iskandar performs violin before the Tucson World Refugee Day event.

Fadi joined the IRC in Tucson as Heath Services Coordinator 4 years ago and is passionate about helping refugees. He shared: “Working at the IRC, I see so many different stories like mine. Whether they are from Syria, Iraq, or Africa... I understand how much you suffer when you start your life in a new country and you don't know the language.” 

Fadi encourages everyone to support the IRC. “When refugees come to the IRC, they can feel safe and be proud of themselves.”  

Get to know Fadi more through his interview below: 

How did you first get connected to the IRC? 

I was introduced to the IRC during my time as an Arabic interpreter and case worker for another resettlement agency. I referred many of my clients to agencies like the IRC for intensive refugee services. In 2021, I applied for a position at IRC Tucson as Health Coordinator for COVID education. Now I work as a Health Coordinator for Intensive Case Management (ICM).  

Describe your current role as Health Services Coordinator. 

I work for ICM and help case workers with clients who have special medical cases. I work with the case workers to offer medical resources and also communicate with doctors and medical providers on behalf of my clients. For example, I helped a client get an electric wheelchair for free. Having this opportunity really makes me happy.  

What motivates you to work with the IRC? 

I like to work with refugees because it’s in my personality to help people, especially those who have a similar experience to my own. It was tough for me to start my life in the U.S. in the beginning, and I relied on others for support many times. Now, I want to use that experience to help my clients do the same. 

I specifically chose to work for the IRC because they have more programs and better opportunities for clients to get the best support they need. I feel that the IRC is the best place to work with refugees.  

What has been particularly meaningful about your time in this position? 

As a COVID Health Coordinator, I helped thousands of clients with vaccine education and access — we saved lives at that time. When my clients achieve their goals or when I make a positive change in their lives, it really makes me happy and motivates me to keep doing this work. I feel proud and happy with my job. 

Why would you encourage someone to get involved with the IRC, as a volunteer, donor, or both? 

Refugees, immigrants and asylees are vulnerable groups seeking safety and protection. They need strong support at the beginning as they start their new life and learn to navigate a new language and an entirely new system. It can be hard to ask for help during this time, but when clients come to IRC, they can keep their dignity – we’re here to support them. IRC is a trusted organization that they can rely on.  

I came to the U.S. by myself and really struggled to ask for help. But when others in my position come to IRC, they don’t have to feel that way. That’s what makes IRC so important — having trusted people you can turn to for support without fear or hesitation. 

Refugees are also hard workers; they just need support and someone to show them the way. Afterwards, they become very beneficial to this country and this economy.  For these reasons, I encourage everyone to support the IRC. When refugees come to an agency like the IRC, they can feel safe and be proud of themselves.  

I want to thank everyone who has helped me start my life here in the U.S. Please keep supporting others like me!  

CONNECT & SUPPORT

Explore and apply to volunteer service opportunities at Rescue.org/Volunteer.  

Donate to the IRC in Tucson to support human dignity and welcome.