From Privilege to Purpose: Support Refugees Through Remote Mentorship With Na’amal

Did you change any lives today?

Remote work has opened up a world of possibilities for many of us in Europe. We can work from a café in Lisbon, a co-working space in Berlin, or even from a quiet village in the Alps. This freedom has redefined how we live and work, giving us the chance to balance our professional ambitions with our personal lives like never before. However, it’s important to remember that this freedom is a privilege, one that isn’t equally shared across the globe.

For millions of people, especially refugees, remote work represents more than just a lifestyle choice.

It is a lifeline — a chance to earn a living, support their families, and build a future regardless of the barriers that their passports or circumstances have imposed on them. Organizations like Na’amal are leading the way in using remote work to level the playing field and create new opportunities for those born without the same advantages many of us enjoy. Not everyone can move freely through the world’s biggest trading bloc, nor apply for a digital nomad visa and start a new life somewhere they choose. Millions of people are either internally displaced due to conflict, politics and natural disaster, or have been forced to seek refuge and asylum somewhere new.

The ability to work online is empowering, transformational, and creates real choice and opportunity. These are the people Na’amal are training and supporting. By partnering with mentors in more developed and privileged areas, Na’amal trainees can build their networks and relationships as well as their hard and soft skills. The mentoring relationship is powerful and effective and mutually rewarding - so why not think about how you can help?

Why Should You Get Involved with Na’amal?

Na’amal mentors help refugees develop the professional skills needed to compete in the global job market. By offering just a few hours of your time each month, you could help someone gain access to remote work opportunities that were previously out of reach. Your mentorship could be the key that unlocks a sustainable career for someone who has faced immense challenges, providing them not only with financial stability but also with dignity and hope.

Mentoring through Na’amal is not a one-way street - it also offers you the chance to grow. Being a mentor offers a valuable opportunity to grow as a professional. You’ll refine your communication, leadership, and cultural intelligence, all of which are critical skills in today’s interconnected world. Additionally, you will expand your global network, connect with other like-minded professionals, and gain fresh perspectives that can enhance your own career.

Na’amal understands that time is a precious resource. That’s why they designed its mentoring program to be both impactful and manageable. Over a 5-6 month period, you’ll spend about 2 hours per month in one-on-one meetings with your mentee, alongside a 2-hour online course and a 90-minute orientation session. Monthly optional drop-in sessions are also available to provide additional support. It’s designed as a high-impact way to maximise the benefit to all parties, while building a sustained relationship that drives real transformation.

Remember that as a remote worker, you’re part of a movement for change any way. Working the way we do has the the potential to revolutionize the global job market. It can bypass traditional barriers like geography, nationality, and even bias, allowing talent to shine regardless of where someone comes from. By getting involved, you’re not just helping one individual; you’re contributing to a larger movement that redefines the world of work to be more inclusive and equitable.

Real Impact, Real Stories

Don’t just take our word for it. Hear it from those who have already made a difference:

- “This was a very well-run program that was developed with a lot of thought. Well done! I really enjoyed the mentoring program.”

- “I learned so much from this experience. It was extremely rewarding and inspiring to see someone so young in this context trying to be the best version of themselves.”

- “I had a wonderful experience and will be happy to continue participating with future cohorts.”

These are just a few of the many testimonials from mentors who have found the program deeply meaningful. Their experiences underline how mentoring is not only about giving back; it's also about personal growth and connection.

Still not sure? Watch this video, highlighting four remarkable individuals from South Sudan and Congo, currently in Kakuma Camp and Nairobi. Their stories have shown extraordinary determination in developing their skills, launching impactful projects, and overcoming significant challenges, and clearly demonstrate how the Na’amal programme truly changes lives:

Take Action: Join the Na’amal Mentoring Program Today

Na’amal is actively seeking mentors for its upcoming cohort, with orientations starting in October-November. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just getting started in your career, your skills and experience are valuable. All you need to do right now is complete this form to express your interest and learn more.

Remote work has the power to transform lives, break down borders, and create a more inclusive future. Let’s use our privilege as remote workers in Europe to open doors for others and ensure that the future of work is accessible to all, regardless of where they were born or what passport they hold.

Join us in supporting Na’amal and make a tangible difference today.

And while you wait to hear back, have a listen to this conversation I had with Lorraine last year: