At TalPods, we believe that talent knows no boundaries.

In June this year, our CEO and Co-Founder, Ameer Jawad, participated in Jusoor’s event, Rewriting the Future, in London. Ameer joined an esteemed panel of experts who shared their insights on refugee employment, exploring both the opportunities and challenges within this vital area. The panel, chaired by Dr. Alexandra Chen, Trauma Psychologist & UN Advisor, facilitated an engaging discussion on how businesses can harness the unique strengths of refugees to foster success.

One of the central themes explored was the immense value that refugees bring to businesses when given the chance. Their resilience and ambition, shaped by overcoming significant challenges, often surpass the expectations of typical employees. Yet, many companies remain hesitant to hire refugees due to common misconceptions about their stability, qualifications, and the risks of integrating them into business operations.

Tackling Misconceptions

The panelists collectively addressed these concerns, emphasizing practical solutions to perceived challenges. Stability, for example, is often questioned due to assumptions about unreliable infrastructure in refugee regions. However, through strategies such as backup hardware and remote work protocols, these issues can be mitigated, allowing refugees to work efficiently without disruption. Similarly, security concerns were highlighted as overstated; refugees working remotely can follow the same rigorous data security protocols as other remote employees, illustrating that this challenge is more about perception than reality.

Unlocking Untapped Potential

Another misconception discussed was around refugees’ competencies. Many hiring managers assume refugees lack the qualifications or language skills to perform effectively in business environments. In reality, many refugees are highly educated and bring a wealth of soft skills that can add tremendous value to organizations. Overcoming these biases requires a shift in mindset and a greater willingness to explore the untapped potential within this unique talent pool.

Navigating Operational Hurdles

Logistical and operational challenges were also key topics of discussion. Payment remittances, especially for refugees in regions with limited financial infrastructure, can be a hurdle. However, companies can partner with trusted intermediaries to facilitate payments, ensuring smooth transactions and removing barriers to refugee employment. The panel further highlighted the need for policy reforms to address some of the structural obstacles refugees face, advocating for a more inclusive hiring framework.

Shifting Mindsets for Business Growth

Perhaps the most significant barrier identified was the bias surrounding the hiring of refugees. Refugees contribute to a richer, more diverse workplace culture, fostering innovation and creativity. By tapping into their unique perspectives and experiences, businesses can gain a competitive edge, enhancing their ability to adapt and grow in a rapidly changing global market.

A Call to Action

The event underscored the incredible potential refugees hold and the necessary steps businesses must take to fully unlock it. We are deeply thankful to Jusoor for organizing such an impactful event and to all the panelists for their invaluable insights.

At TalPods, we firmly believe that hiring refugees is not just a matter of social responsibility—it’s a smart business decision. Refugees bring fresh perspectives and unique skills that can drive innovation and growth. For those interested in exploring this further, we encourage you to explore the resources and initiatives linked below. Together, we can rewrite the future, creating opportunities that benefit both refugees and the businesses that hire them.

The TalPods-Jusoor Tech Talent Pipeline is an intensive tech apprenticeship program designed to equip Syrian engineers with the skills and experience necessary to excel in the tech industry. Learn more about the program.