How Vocational Training Helps Refugee Women Rebuild Their Lives
February 3, 2025
Author: Yome Jimmy
The integration of displaced people into the labour market of a new country is not a simple process, it requires a well-planned, multi-step approach, and for many refugee women, displacement means losing not only their homes but also their financial independence.
According to Global Trends Report, in almost all refugee populations, women make up approximately half and face unique challenges when it comes to rebuilding their lives in new countries. These women, some with their children, often experience even greater struggles when integrating into new communities, especially the struggle to find employment and build a stable life.
However, one popular strategy promoted by national governments and international organisations for refugees’ labour market integration has been vocational education and training (VET) (Aerne & Bonoli, 2023). VET can help refugees gain skills that will facilitate accessing better job opportunities, and thus, higher incomes.
What Is a Vocational Education and Training Program?
A vocational training program is a type of education that focuses on teaching practical skills for specific jobs. Unlike traditional education, which may take years to complete, vocational training is designed to be short, hands-on, and directly connected to employment opportunities.
These programs teach skills in industries like healthcare, hospitality, technology, and business. For example, a refugee woman who joins a vocational training program might learn how to become a caregiver, a baker, a tailor, or even a digital marketer. With the right training, she can quickly enter the workforce, achieve financial independence, and build a new future for herself and her family.
Barriers Preventing Refugee Women from Finding Work
- Lack of Recognized Certifications
A major issue is the lack of recognized certifications. Many refugee women find themselves in this situation–even if they were professionals in their home countries. Their qualifications may not be accepted in the new country. For example, a doctor, teacher, or engineer from one country may not be able to practice their profession in another country without going through a long and costly certification process.This often forces them to start over in low-skilled jobs or remain unemployed.
- Cultural and Social Barriers
Another barrier many refugee women face is deep-rooted discrimination and cultural restrictions. In some cultures, women are not encouraged to work outside the home and this makes it even harder for refugee women to adjust to a new country where they are expected to be financially independent. Employers may also be hesitant to hire refugees due to biases and misunderstandings, making the job search even more difficult.
- Language Barriers
One of the biggest barriers refugee women face is the language barrier. Even if they have professional experience, many struggle to communicate well enough to apply for jobs or attend interviews. Without language skills, their chances of finding stable work are significantly lower.
These barriers have serious consequences for refugee women. Many struggle with poverty, as they are unable to find stable jobs to support themselves and their children. This financial insecurity often leads to dependence on humanitarian aid, making it harder for them to build long-term stability. The lack of employment also affects their confidence and mental well-being, as they feel isolated and unable to contribute to society. In extreme cases, this vulnerability may lead to exploitation in informal, low-wage jobs with no legal protection.
How Vocational Training Helps Refugee Women
Vocational training programs provide a lifeline for refugee women by giving them the skills and confidence they need to find meaningful work. These programs help in several ways:
- Teaching Job-Specific Skills
Vocational training focuses on high-demand skills such as caregiving, sewing, cooking, and digital work. These skills make it easier for refugee women to find jobs that offer financial stability and career growth.
- Helping with Language and Communication
Many vocational programs include language classes to help refugee women improve their communication skills. This allows them to interact confidently with employers, coworkers, and customers.
- Boosting Confidence and Independence
Learning a new skill and finding a job not only provides income but also restores a sense of purpose. It helps refugee women regain their confidence, rebuild their lives, and become self-sufficient.
- Connecting Women to Employers
Some programs partner with businesses to provide job placement support. This means that after completing their training, refugee women have a higher chance of getting hired.
At Creshendo, we are committed to helping refugees–especially women–by offering vocational training programs on practical job skills that are in demand, to help these women feel less stressed, build confidence and provide a sense of community and togetherness.
We believe that with proper vocational training, refugee women will have a greater chance of securing stable employment and gaining financial independence, allowing them to support themselves and their families. Their improved confidence and skills will help them integrate into society, reducing feelings of isolation and increasing their overall well-being. Over time, more refugee women will become self-sufficient, reducing reliance on aid and contributing positively to their new communities.
A Call for Support
Vocational training is one of the most effective ways to help refugee women rebuild their lives. At Creshendo, we are making a real difference by providing the education and integration opportunities these women need to succeed. But we can’t do it alone.
Here’s how you can help:
- Governments: Advocate for governments to implement policies that recognize refugees’ skills and certifications, allowing them to work without unnecessary restrictions.
- Businesses: Hire trained refugee women and create inclusive workspaces that support their growth.
- Individuals: Volunteer, donate, or advocate for fair employment policies.
When refugees are given the tools to succeed, they don’t just rebuild their own lives, they help build a more functional, competent and safer society for everyone.
