Originally from Cote d'Ivoire, Adama arrived in the US less than six years ago. He attended the Refugee Youth Summer Academy (RYSA) and then enrolled into 9th grade at Brooklyn International High School. He and his mom participated in the Academic Coaching program, and a few years later, Adama became a "Leader in Training" - including working as a Peer Mentor at RYSA in 2014 and 2015. Meanwhile, he honed his artistry. When he graduated high school in 2015, he enrolled at the Borough of Manhattan Community College studying liberal arts, playing soccer, and painting. 

The IRC in New Jersey’s Intake & Casework (ICW) Team supports thousands of vulnerable newcomers each year with compassionate, trauma-informed care. From crisis response to everyday guidance, they help clients navigate complex systems and build safer, more stable lives.

We are excited to welcome David Oliver, our new deputy director! David brings leadership and expertise in program design from his tenure at the IRC in Atlanta. David's commitment to serving the community and his deep understanding of client-centered programs will enable us to continue our growth in supporting our resilient clients as they seek to heal and rebuild their lives.

One afternoon, a new client Abdul traveled with Carey Hobart, a volunteer from Bike Walk Wichita (BWW), to pick out bikes for he and his family. Along the way, Abdul began to describe his home in Afghanistan and the bicycle shop that he owned

Ranna Jajju, owner of Threading by Ranna in Linda Vista, is a former refugee from Iraq, who resettled to San Diego back in 2009. Since then, she has opened up two businesses and most recently shined as a stellar example as a small business leadership and resilience during a global pandemic.