As we spring into the fourth month of the year, we’re reminded that we blossom together. Each day, through shared effort and commitment, we continue to create opportunities, strengthen community, and move forward with purpose.
This month, that growth was reflected in a powerful way—through a milestone that reminds us exactly why this work matters.
A Step Forward for Palwasha
We’re honored to celebrate Palwasha, one of the talented artisans at RAI, as she steps into a new role as a sewer. This milestone marks meaningful progress in her journey and speaks to her perseverance, growth, and willingness to embrace new opportunities.
Moments like these don’t happen overnight but are built through trust, preparation, and consistent support. We’re grateful to Tessa Hall, our Economic Mobility Manager, for walking alongside Palwasha throughout this process—providing guidance, encouragement, and the resources needed to move forward with confidence.
This is economic mobility in motion: where skill, support, and opportunity come together to create lasting change—for individuals, their families, and their futures.
SUPPORT MORE STORIES LIKE PALWASHA
Voices of RAI: Tessa
Tessa is our Economic Mobility Manager, working directly with artisans to support their growth beyond production. Her work is rooted in relationship-building, trust, and ensuring that each individual has the tools and support they need to take their next step forward.
In Tessa's conversation, she shares how women from many cultures find ways to connect across languages, the skills that help build long-term success, and the pride that comes with earning a first paycheck.
Building Businesses, Creating Opportunities
We launched our first Business Square One: Basics class—a foundational step in supporting women who are ready to grow their own microbusinesses.
Led by Jessica from Business Impact NW, this session focused on building the confidence and core knowledge needed to begin—from understanding business basics to taking the first steps toward independence.
Expanding Skills: Digital Literacy
This past month, we also launched our Digital Literacy class. Participants are investing their time to learn new skills, gaining tools that will help them navigate new opportunities and build confidence in an increasingly digital world.
Learning to Save a Life
At the end of March, some staff and artisans at RAI participated in a CPR class—learning essential skills that go beyond the workplace. The class empowered women to feel prepared in emergencies and care for their families and communities from hands-on practice to real-world confidence.
As we start this month, Palwasha's milestone stands as a reminder of what’s possible when community, opportunity, and support come together.
Thank you for continuing to stand with us and invest in this work. Because of you, stories like this are not just possible—they are happening.
We look ahead with gratitude and excitement for all that is still to come.
More soon,
The Team at Refugee Artisan Initiative
Upcoming Volunteer Activities
- ESL Buddies Program:We’ve launched an ESL Buddy program that pairs volunteers with immigrant women in our program for weekly, casual English conversation practice. This opportunity includes a 6-month commitment and is open to women only at this time. No prior ESL experience needed—just patient, friendly listeners. Most meet-ups will take place near Lake City and Kent.
- Get Involved:There are many ways to support and engage with our work. We invite you to be part of the impact we are building together.
