After moving to Uganda to escape the war in South Sudan, my family decided to immigrate to America. The process was slow and challenging. My husband came first and moved to Utah. It was a long 13 years before my children and I were able to come and join him.

Once we arrived in Utah, I needed to find a job. Our bishop encouraged me to apply at the LDS Humanitarian Center (LDSHC). I had learned to speak English in Sudan, but I wanted to learn to read and write and to improve my speaking. At the LDSHC, there are on-site English language classes. The teachers and volunteers helped me build my skills in reading, writing, and speaking English. This enabled me to complete the computer skills class.

I also received job skills training. I started as a clothing sorter and quickly moved to be a quality checker. I also was certified to drive a forklift. I was recognized for my hard work and was chosen as the associate of the month. I was also made a lead over other associates in clothing sort..

While doing all of this, I took a citizenship class at the LDSHC. I finished the class too and became a citizen of the United States. Becoming a citizen was one of the most meaningful days of my life.

The volunteers and staff were there to help me move into a new career. I took a career workshop where I practiced for job interviews and learned how to present myself. The employment missionaries then told me about a job opportunity that had opened up at a large window company. To further prepare for an interview with this company, I learned how to use a tape measure accurately to 1/16 of an inch. I went to the interview—and I got the job!