.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg)
According to the 2021 Integration of Migrants Synthesis report by the European Commission, refugees take, on average, 20 years to reach an employment rate similar to that of the native-born population. Unfortunately, fewer women among new arrivals participate in job-oriented programs like labor market training, and they are less likely to be employed than men. Labor market integration challenges are also linked to low proficiency in the host country's official language. The THRIVE program was developed to support more migrant and refugee women in upskilling, networking, and enhancing their job market prospects for a sustainable future.
Program Objectives
What We Did in THRIVE 2023-2024
THRIVE ran from May 2023 to April 2024, proudly supported by JP Morgan Chase, Postcode Lottery Deutschland, and Apheon. The program offered four distinct study pathways in high-demand tech skills: Get Started in Tech, Data Analysis, Introduction to Cybersecurity, and Digital Design. A blended learning program, it included a combination of online self-paced courses, live webinars, and in-person networking events.
Program Highlights:
The 2023 program in numbers
Program Outcome:
A survey was launched towards the end of the program. Of the 52 participants who responded to the survey, 10 women had already received at least one job offer and 25 were unemployed and actively looking for a job.
Of the respondents;
"Our goal was to create a curriculum that not only imparts technical skills but also fosters a sense of community and belonging. The success stories we've seen are a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when education is accessible and inclusive.” – Bethan Williams, Learning Designer at Kiron
THRIVE Celebration Event
To mark the end of the program cycle, an in-person celebration event was held in Berlin. Participants benefited from a personal branding session, panel discussions on the opportunities and challenges for refugee and migrant Women in the Tech Industry, and speed networking with potential employers. They also had the opportunity to share their journey and learnings with participants.
150 women had finished the program and were ready for the tech job market in German-speaking European countries.
"Seeing the women complete the THRIVE program, earn their certificates, and progress in their careers is incredibly rewarding. It’s a testament to their hard work, resilience, and the power of providing the right support at the right time." – Chaghaf Howayek, Project Manager THRIVE
Top Learnings and Insights from THRIVE
Flexible learning schedules are important for women with refugee and migration experience: Many participants balanced family responsibilities, language learning, and integration challenges. Offering flexible, self-paced learning options allowed them to engage with the program at their own pace, significantly improving retention and completion rates.
Skill-based hiring opens opportunities for marginalized communities: Employers in the tech industry benefit from focusing on the skills participants acquire through programs like THRIVE rather than traditional credentials. This approach reduces barriers to entry for refugee women and allows companies to tap into an often overlooked talent pool.
Safe, inclusive learning spaces are important: Involving women in the design and implementation of THRIVE led to the creation of supportive and secure learning environments for the participants. This sense of community was crucial in building trust, and facilitating collaboration and peer support throughout their learning journeys.
Networking and mentorship are key for job market access: Prior to the program, many participants despite possessing in-demand skills, faced challenges in navigating the job market. The emphasis on networking opportunities and 1:1 mentorship with industry professionals not only expanded their professional networks but also provided critical insights into job readiness, helping some participants secure internships and job offers.
"The success of the program can be attributed to the practical relevance and flexibility of our digital approach, as well as the direct support line we provided to participants." – Elisa Pellegrino, Head of Programs at Kiron
What Students Say
"Interacting with other participants, many of whom shared similar backgrounds to my own, transformed my journey from one of solitude and frustration to a more communal experience of shared challenges and mutual encouragement." – Vicky
"I found the webinars on job search in Germany useful. I was applying to several jobs in Germany before without any response. Now I know what mistakes I have made. I will improve them in the future." – Halyna
Learn more: Read about Halyna's journey to becoming a data professional.
Get Involved
We are working on the next THRIVE program cycle!
Join us in making a difference in the lives of refugee and migrant women by becoming a corporate partner. Your support through funding or hiring our participants will create lasting impact and new opportunities.
Contact Kathrin Dischereit, Head of Fundraising, to learn how you can contribute to the THRIVE program.
