Leaving one’s home country in pursuit of safety and opportunity is a journey familiar to many individuals chasing the American dream. For Sebastian, that journey was shaped by both courage and a touch of fate.
When Sebastian fled his homeland as a refugee, he arrived at an airport in Texas, uncertain of where his next chapter would begin. As he contemplated his options for a fresh start, he heard an announcement for a flight to Kansas City. Remembering that Superman was from Kansas, Sebastian took it as a sign that it was the right place for him.
Starting over in a new city came with challenges, but also unexpected opportunities. While searching for employment in Kansas City, Sebastian noticed a flyer for Guadalupe Centers’ Arrob@s Workforce Program posted on a bulletin board. Eager to utilize his degree and build a future, he immediately enrolled. Like many internationally educated professionals, Sebastian faced the barrier that not all U.S. employers recognize foreign degrees. The program offered him a pathway forward.
Sebastian was welcomed into the program almost immediately after enrolling. Although he was excited to begin, obstacles soon followed. At the time, Sebastian did not have reliable internet access or a phone, which made completing coursework difficult. The Workforce team stepped in to help by providing access to a Chromebook during Workforce lab hours, allowing him to continue his professional development.
Another significant challenge was language. Adjusting to learning and working in English initially felt overwhelming, but Sebastian was determined to grow. Through the Workforce team, he learned about the English Language Learners (ELL) classes offered within the program and quickly enrolled. “I didn’t know English when I first arrived in the United States,” Sebastian shared. “Through the ELL classes, I don’t feel judged. I’ve gained the confidence to feel better about speaking a different language.”
“My advice is not to limit yourself...Don’t stay quiet about your needs. Not everyone will see you as helpless."
That confidence soon opened new doors. During a recent career fair hosted by the Workforce team – intentionally designed to welcome both English and non-English speakers – Sebastian connected with SmartPro Technologies. The meeting quickly turned into a promising opportunity.
The hiring process included three rounds of interviews, conducted in both Spanish and English. Through these conversations, Sebastian and SmartPro discovered a shared passion for information technology. The strong connection made it clear that the opportunity was the right fit for both parties.
Today, Sebastian works with SmartPro Technologies, supporting telecommunications systems, assisting with sound system operations, and providing technical support. The position has allowed him to apply his education, skills, and passion in a meaningful way.
“It has helped me a lot,” Sebastian said. “I’ve never judged any other job, but with SmartPro, I can use what I’ve studied and put it into practice. I’m more satisfied, happier to do something that I love to do. The money is also a great help.”
Reflecting on his journey, Sebastian encourages others facing similar challenges to fully utilize available resources and never be afraid to ask for help. “My advice is not to limit yourself,” Sebastian said. “Workforce offers support in so many ways, even in financial assistance. Don’t stay quiet about your needs. Not everyone will see you as helpless. They are here to help you succeed.”
Sebastian’s story is one of determination and the power of community support. Programs like our Workforce program help individuals overcome barriers, develop skills and confidence, and build sustainable careers. To learn more about Guadalupe Centers’ programs, or to support participants like Sebastian, we invite you to visit the link below. Businesses and organizations interested in partnering to provide career opportunities or support workforce initiatives are encouraged to connect with our Workforce Team.
