“My favorite part was seeing these women come together by the ocean, sharing stories, practicing yoga, and simply enjoying each other’s company. Moments like these remind me that healing often begins with connection and a sense of belonging. Being their yoga guide for a day was the minimum I could do for the community.” - Anastasiia
Read More“I’ve enjoyed watching families build language confidence when immersed in real-world educational environments. It’s here they can utilize English skills in a practical setting but maintain the familiar support of Ukrainian friends and colleagues.”
Read MoreOn April 8, HMI joined the Riverside Public Library for this year's Riverside Reads program to host an evening of real, honest conversation. Our founder Dr. Selin Nielsen led a panel with community liaisons Friba Dawar and Anastasiia Krylova, who shared their personal journeys of resettlement — what they left behind, what they had to rebuild, and what belonging actually looks like. It was a night worth showing up for.
Read MoreThroughout this month, we reflect not just on history, but on the women we have the privilege of working alongside every day. Women whose strength, leadership, and care continue to shape our community in ways that are both visible and deeply felt.
This year, we were especially inspired by local women, including members of our own HMI community who were featured in Riverside Women Creating Change. Seeing their stories recognized was more than a moment of celebration. It was a reminder of the impact they have had not only on Riverside, but on us as an organization.
Read MoreAt Human Migration Institute (HMI), we believe that career advancement is not just about access to opportunities, it’s about having the tools, confidence, and support to pursue them.
This week, our Refugee Career Pathways (RCP) team hosted a workshop titled “Elevate Your Career: Advanced Certifications & Interview Strategies,” bringing together clients ready to take the next step in their professional journeys.
Read MoreHMI attended Riverside’s State of the City address to celebrate progress and explore new partnerships aligned with our mission. From the Hero Award honoring the Civil Rights Institute to expanding workforce and youth development initiatives, the evening reinforced our commitment to helping build the Riverside we all deserve. Learn how you can get involved and support this work.
Read MoreThe first Inland Empire Refugee Forum of 2026, co-hosted by Human Migration Institute and Lifting Humanity, brought together community members, local officials, and service providers on March 11th at Chaffey Adult School in Ontario — for an honest, grounded conversation about the state of refugee support across the region.
Read MoreOn Sunday, March 8th, HMI celebrated Women's Day at Fairmount Park in Riverside with a day full of creative activities, wellness programming, and community connection. From hands-on stations to heartfelt affirmation circles, here's a look at how the day came together.
Read MoreHuman Migration Institute hosted its Community Engagement Picnic 2026 at Fairmount Park in Riverside, bringing together refugee families, volunteers, and partners for food, games, certificates, and access to community resources.
Read MoreOn a crisp January day at Carbon Canyon Regional Park, a group of Ukrainian women gathered for a simple picnic that became something much more. Surrounded by winter sunshine, redwood trees, and shared traditions, the afternoon offered space for stories, laughter, and mutual support. Over tea, homemade treats, and a quiet walk through the forest, connection took root reminding everyone present that even far from home, community can grow, and new beginnings do not have to be faced alone.
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