Pfizer Refugee Leadership Initiative leader on the importance of World Refugee Day

Gullnaz Saeedi, DEI Business Partner Senior Associate, discusses the significance of World Refugee Day with myGwork, highlighting refugee resilience and the impact of Pfizer’s efforts in promoting inclusivity.

Hi Gullnaz - thanks for talking with us! Can you share with us the significance of World Refugee Day and why it's crucial to bring attention to the challenges refugees face?

World Refugee Day is designated by United Nations to celebrates the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee their home and raises awareness about the global refugee crisis – it is happening on June 20. It is significant as it recognizes the resilience of refugees and the challenges they face, promoting global awareness, empathy, and action towards their support and inclusion. Raising awareness about the challenges faced by refugees is important to promote understanding, support, and advocacy, ensuring they receive the necessary protection and opportunities to rebuild their lives with dignity and security.

Could you tell us about any personal stories or experiences that highlight the resilience of refugees?

Three years ago, I embarked on a journey to the USA, filled with hope yet uncertain of my destination. As a refugee, I faced the common misconception that refugees lack the capability or professionalism to build a career or integrate into the workplace promptly. This stereotype often leads employers to overlook refugees for roles. Despite facing such challenges, I never doubted my abilities or the transferability of my knowledge and experience in the workforce. However, articulating my skills to excel job interviews was a hurdle I needed to overcome.

The Pfizer Refugee Leadership Initiative and its mentorship program were pivotal in my journey. They provided me with the guidance to navigate the job application process and hone my interview skills in a new job market. More importantly, they affirmed the value of my skills and showed me that sometimes, all a refugee needs is a listener and an advocate.

Now as a DEI senior associate and business partner, advocating equitable hiring and onboarding practices for all, is the most rewarding part of my job.

What are some ways that individuals, communities, and governments can offer support to refugees, particularly on World Refugee Day?

On World Refugee Day, we stand in solidarity with refugees and recognize the collective efforts of individuals, communities, and governments to support them. It's a day to raise awareness about the challenges refugees face and to celebrate their courage and resilience. By creating opportunities, engaging in supportive activities, aiding in resettlement, providing educational and employment support, mentoring and advocating refugees and being a voice for them, we can make a significant impact on the lives of refugees. These actions not only help refugees survive but also thrive, ensuring they receive the necessary protection and opportunities to rebuild their lives and make them feel home in a second country. Together, we can amplify these efforts and contribute to making a positive difference in the lives of those fleeing conflict or persecution.

How is Pfizer contributing to creating opportunities and promoting inclusivity for refugees?

At Pfizer we support refugees through Refugee Leadership Initiative where we hire refugees, mentor refugees, and celebrate world refugee where we run fund raising campaign in support of refugee resettlement and more. We are committed in hiring refugees from different countries across the Pfizer sites around the globe. We are also mentoring refugees from different communities such as LGBTQ+, Women, Hispanic, Afghan refugees and general refugees from all backgrounds. I am proud of our Pfizer colleagues who are volunteering to be a mentor to a refugee, and they feel it is one of the most rewarding works to do.

What are some common misconceptions about refugees, and how can education and awareness help address these issues?

Refugees are often some of the most hardworking and dedicated individuals in the workforce. Contrary to the misconception that refugees lack proper education or relevant skills, many refugees have strong professional backgrounds and top skills that are highly valuable in today's global job market. The circumstances that force them to flee their countries do not diminish their abilities or their potential contributions to the workforce. In fact, refugees are known for their loyalty and commitment to their jobs, often going above and beyond in their roles due to the opportunity to work and the support they receive.

Companies like Pfizer have recognized the value of hiring refugees, not only for the diverse experiences and skills they bring but also for the positive impact on employee engagement and brand loyalty. Through initiatives like the Pfizer Refugee Leadership Initiative, companies are committing to hiring, mentoring, and supporting refugees, which benefits both the individuals and the organization. Refugees' resilience, adaptability, and diverse perspectives can help address talent gaps and foster a more inclusive and innovative work environment.

What are the main objectives of your World Refugee Day campaign, and how do you plan to engage a diverse audience?

In our campaign for World Refugee Day, we strive to enlighten and dispel the myths about refugees, emphasizing their ability to make substantial societal contributions. We seek to showcase the resilience, skills, and life experiences that refugees possess, which are often unseen due to existing stereotypes.

Our approach to engaging a diverse audience includes sharing inspiring stories of refugees who have made notable achievements despite challenges. We will hold interactive sessions where refugees can narrate their stories and ambitions, and we will work with community leaders from various backgrounds to broaden the reach of our message. Utilizing social media, we aim to engage a broader audience and foster inclusive conversations. Additionally, we will conduct workshops centered on cultural competency and the advantages of a diverse workforce.

This initiative goes beyond a single day; it's a commitment to creating a more inclusive society where everyone is respected and has equal chances to succeed.

In what ways does Pfizer support LGBTQ+ refugees, and how do you ensure a welcoming environment for them?

Pfizer is committed to support refugees from all backgrounds and groups through Refugee Leadership Initiative. Our program is open to all sites both locally and internationally. We are hiring and mentoring refugees across our sites and we also mentor refugees to prepare them for job markets and be an advocate for them. Through mentorship program we have special cohorts of LGBTQ+ refugees both in the US and Europe and we have mentored many refugees from LGBTQ+ community.

What are some actionable steps that individuals can take to show their solidarity with LGBTQ+ refugees?

We can show our solidarity with LGBTQ+ refugees and positively impact their lives through a series of actionable steps. By engaging in mentorship programs, we can provide guidance and support to LGBTQ+ refugees, helping them navigate professional environments. Educating ourselves and others about the unique challenges they face fosters a deeper understanding and advocacy for their rights. Advocating for inclusive policies, creating welcoming communities, and participating in events that celebrate LGBTQ+ diversity is crucial in promoting acceptance and support. Together, we can help them rebuild their lives and achieve their dreams in a world that embraces diversity and champions equality.

Furthermore, offering employment opportunities and sharing stories of LGBTQ+ refugees' experiences raise awareness and highlights their valuable contributions. Financial support to organizations dedicated to assisting LGBTQ+ refugees ensure the continuation of essential services for their resettlement and integration. These efforts collectively create an environment where LGBTQ+ refugees can live with dignity and respect, fully embracing their identities without fear of discrimination.

Can you share examples of successful initiatives or projects that have facilitated the integration of refugees into new communities?

Pfizer Refugee Leadership Initiative is a good example of helping refugees. Through this program we have hired refugees and mentored refugees, and we are committed to continue this program.

What is the lasting impact you hope to achieve through your advocacy for the rights and needs of refugees worldwide?

Pfizer's enduring mission in advocating for refugees is to foster a more inclusive society by hiring and mentoring refugees, expanding international support, and partnering with organizations to improve health care access, aiming for a future where refugees are empowered and integrated as valued members of the community.