Refugees with Residence Permits at Work: Courage, Determination, and a New Colleague
In the shadow of De Grolsch Veste, our Broeder Tuck recently attended the Meet & Greet organised by Werkplein Twente. Representing De Ster Bedrijfsdiensten, he joined a knowledge session on refugees with residence permits entering the workforce. He walked into the room with a healthy dose of scepticism, convinced he had already heard it all. It soon became clear, however, that the stories shared that day would leave a lasting impression.
During the session, it became evident just how much motivation and determination people show as they rebuild their lives in the Netherlands.
Knowledge Session on Refugees with Residence Permits
The session began with an overview of what it means to be a refugee with a residence permit and the opportunities available for work and personal development in the Netherlands. One of the participants then took the stage. Afaf Khazzoum, a woman of Syrian origin, immediately showed her determination to build a new life. She spoke openly about her experiences and the challenges she had faced along the way.
At times, she felt held back by rules and procedures, but giving up was never an option.
Courage and Determination
Afaf shared how she completed a programme at the UWV head office. Afterwards, she was eager to find a job closer to home. When one of her job applications was rejected, she decided to take a different approach.
Instead of waiting for guidance, she activated her own network. It paid off. She was invited for an interview and eventually secured the job.
Her story left a lasting impression. It showed just how much courage, resilience, and determination are needed for refugees with residence permits to find meaningful employment. Today, Afaf has found her place in the Netherlands and has become an inspiring example to others.
After her presentation, two more candidates took the stage. They spoke about their ambitions and their desire to contribute actively to society. Although De Ster did not have suitable positions for them at the time, their motivation made a deep impression.
A New Colleague at De Ster
After the presentations, it was time to welcome visitors at the De Ster Bedrijfsdiensten stand. Within five minutes, someone approached us with enthusiasm.
“Good afternoon, I’m Alex,” he said. “I’ve been doing volunteer work for years, but I’d really like to have a paid job again.”
We immediately struck up a good conversation. Alex shared his experiences, his motivation, and his desire to become a valued member of the workforce again. We invited him for an interview at our office in Hengelo.
It quickly became clear that there was a great connection. The result? Starting next week, we are proud to welcome Alex as our newest colleague.
It’s a wonderful example of how refugees with residence permits can find meaningful employment when employers and candidates have the opportunity to connect.
Unnecessary Barriers in the Labour Market
During the Meet & Greet, ten more refugees with residence permits visited the De Ster stand. They all had one thing in common: a strong desire to work and contribute to society.
That is exactly why it is so frustrating when the system gets in their way. Many refugees with residence permits are not allowed to start working immediately without a work permit. Obtaining that permit can easily take six weeks.
For highly motivated people who are eager to get started, this feels like an unnecessary barrier.
As far as Broeder Tuck is concerned, those obstacles should disappear much sooner.
Refugees with Residence Permits at Work: Talent We Need
The knowledge session organised by Werkplein Twente once again showed just how much talent, motivation, and resilience can be found in people rebuilding their lives in the Netherlands.
The stories of Afaf, Alex, and the other participants demonstrate that helping refugees with residence permits find work is not only an opportunity for them, but also for employers and society as a whole.
These individuals want to contribute, participate, and put their talents to good use. All they need is the opportunity to do so.
And that is an opportunity we should be giving far more often.
Werkplein Twente, and especially Marjolein van Veen, thank you for organising this inspiring event.
