New member Na’amal share their unique approach to supporting refugees, one that may become increasingly essential in the current global context of aid cuts, increasing digitalisation and remote working. Hear from Lorraine Charles, Founder and Executive Director of Na’amal about the work of the organisation below.
We are witnessing a time of unparalleled global displacement, with over 120 million people forcibly displaced worldwide. These individuals hold immense potential, and with the right opportunities, they can contribute significantly to the global economy. Meanwhile, the workforce is experiencing a profound shift toward digital transformation, with remote work emerging as the norm. This transition has opened up unprecedented possibilities for communities that have traditionally been excluded from formal employment, including displaced populations. The digital economy, which transcends geographical boundaries, presents refugees with a unique opportunity to engage in the workforce. Whether based in urban hubs in Nairobi, rural settlements in Uganda, or refugee camps in Jordan, work can now be done remotely, breaking down barriers and enabling displaced individuals to forge sustainable livelihoods and make valuable contributions to the global economy.
Barriers to Refugee Employment
However, despite these opportunities, refugees still face substantial obstacles to securing employment. On the supply side, many refugees lack access to necessary resources such as equipment, education, training, and professional networks, making it difficult for them to compete in the global digital marketplace. On the demand side, companies are often reluctant to hire refugees due to concerns about legal processes, hiring regulations, and cultural integration. Additionally, businesses may be hesitant to engage with a talent pool they perceive as unfamiliar, lacking knowledge of refugees’ educational and social contexts. This disconnect between talent availability and employer demand results in refugees being underemployed while businesses struggle to fill crucial roles.
Na’amal: Empowering Refugees for the Digital Economy
Na’amal was established to bridge this gap and create sustainable livelihoods for refugees by connecting them to meaningful remote digital work. Na’amal empowers refugees and other marginalized populations by equipping them with marketable skills that combine essential human (soft) skills with in-demand digital skills for the global labour market. To address the persistent employment gap, Na’amal launched the Na’amal Agency—an innovative, solution-driven initiative that directly connects skilled refugee talent with paid project-based work opportunities. Through this model, Na’amal not only offers economic opportunities for refugees but also helps businesses tap into an untapped, diverse, and highly skilled talent pool.
In 2024, we trained 1453 learners, matched 431 mentoring pairs, completed 17 agency-paid projects, and linked 35 alumni to work, with an average of $800 per project. We also launched Season 2 of our Voices of Resilience podcast and completed two research projects. Read about our impact in the Na’amal 2024 Impact Report.
Na’amal’s services are now listed on the SIDA service directory. Find out more about how Na’amal Agency could help support your digital needs by connecting you to skilled refugee talent here.