When I was 12, civil war broke out in my home country of Sudan. I witnessed both of my parents brutally murdered and I suffered two years of captivity. After going through these life changing events, I knew there was more than this for me and that God had a better plan for my life. Then, five years ago, I was granted political asylum for me and my daughter to come to Utah so she could receive medical treatment for a cleft palate. Leaving my husband and six children behind was a big sacrifice, but one I was willing to take to help my daughter.

I started working at Deseret Industries and participated in a pilot program to learn English. I attended classes 20 hours a week, learning grammar and sentence structure, in addition to working full-time at the DI. Although this was difficult, I made sure that I strived to do my best for the sake of my family back in Sudan. Learning English has been a struggle, but I have made up for it through hard work and determination. I am so grateful for dedicated job coaches, development specialist, and other associates that made this transition much easier for me and my daughter.

After leaving DI, there was an opportunity to apply for a position in housekeeping at a nearby medical center. This was perfect, because the location was near a light-rail station which made it easy for me to get to work. I got the job because of the English I had learned through the training program at Deseret Industries.

I continue to stay positive, even when I hear of the struggles of my family who are so very far away. My husband has had difficulty finding work, so I send every little thing I earn back to them. I have a great desire to work hard so I can help end the suffering of my family. I’m grateful I can be strong for my family no matter what happens. My coming to DI has been an opportunity for me to learn English and work skills that help support my husband and children.