A reflection on advocating for our refugee and newcomer families at Refugee Council USA's Advocacy Days: what it felt like to speak up in this moment, to share what we're seeing on the ground in Southern California, and why it matters now more than ever that we raise our voices for our refugee neighbors, with so much at stake this year.
Read More"Thank you for your willingness to tell your story. I also understand that your stories hold a great deal of sorrow. You have experienced a great deal of loss and grief that most of us cannot understand unless there are opportunities like this, where those of us who have not had those experiences are able to put ourselves in your shoes, even if only for a moment, and walk the path you have taken."
Read MoreThe Inland Empire Refugee Forum returned on June 3, 2026 at UC Riverside — and this was our biggest gathering yet. With Supervisor Medina, representatives from Congressman Mark Takano's office, and community partners from across the region in attendance, we celebrated the close of our most successful program to date and announced a new initiative expanding our reach to even more refugees and newcomers in Riverside County.
Read MoreThrough this partnership, students have access to academic instruction, mentorship, and resources that help them develop important life skills and work toward their future educational and career goals. The collaboration aims to create a supportive learning environment that helps students successfully transition into life in the United States while achieving their academic aspirations.
Read More“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.
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