A path to higher education and employment for refugees | Chrystina Russell

TED

Global Displacement Crisis Context

60 million people globally displaced
Humanitarian community recognizing displacement as permanent problem rather than temporary
Traditional education systems inadequate for refugee populations

Saida Aden Said (Somalia)
- Fled Somalia at age 9 due to violence, gunshots, separated from mother
- Arrived Kakuma refugee camp, started school at 17
- Currently pursuing bachelor's degree with SNHU
- Witnessed people falling, gunshots during escape
Noria Dambrine Dusabireme (Burundi)
- Experienced election violence, strikes, young people dying
- Couldn't attend school or market due to conflict
- Currently pursuing bachelor's in communications with business concentration
- Working as social media management intern

Geographic Reach: 5 countries - Lebanon, Kenya, Malawi, Rwanda, South Africa
Current Statistics:
- 800 Associate degree graduates
- 400+ bachelor's graduates
- Nearly 1,000 students currently enrolled
- 95% graduation rate
- 88% employment rate

Competency-based learning: Not time-bound, no traditional classes or due dates
Student-centered approach: Students choose project start times and approaches
Platform structure: Goals → Projects → Competencies → Directions → Overview
Hybrid delivery: Online competency-based learning + in-person partner support

Noria's achievements: Gained confidence for English-language master's degree, workplace skills
Saida's goals: Establish nonprofit advocating women's education, become community ambassador
Transferable degrees: Useful regardless of future relocation
Career preparation: Real-world skills through internships and projects

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