For doting father Djime, the happiness and wellbeing of his three children has always been top priority, so when war and violence in his home country of the Democratic Republic of Congo jeopardized their safety, he was left with no choice but to uproot his family and flee. Like all parents, Djime has always wanted the best for his children. He hoped that by resettling in the United States, he could provide them with the opportunities they would need to succeed in life. 

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Djime with his Oxford Picture Dictionary.
Photo: IRC in Atlanta

In May 2016, Djime and his family were finally given the news that they would be resettled in Atlanta. He knew that in order for them to be fully integrated into their new community, they would quickly need to learn English. Djime came to the IRC in Atlanta and instantly became an exemplary student, devoting himself to learning and building upon his existing skills. Within two months, he was fluent in English and had improved his computer literacy. He regularly attends many of the classes offered by the IRC in Atlanta and has a busy schedule of English, computer literacy and job skills classes. Djime was recently recognized for his perfect attendance and hard work, receiving an Oxford Picture Dictionary which he uses at home to help his children with their English skills.

Djime is grateful for all of the support and services that the IRC in Atlanta has provided to him and his family, stating, “Everyone has been so nice, helping me with my English and helping me to look for a job.” Djime worked as an airplane mechanic for 17 years in the Congo and hopes to soon restart his career here in America. He is excited for what the future holds for his family and hopes that his children, like all refugees, can realize their potential and have the opportunity to be as successful as he has been within the past few months. 

To learn more about the work of the IRC in Atlanta and for information on how you can get involved with the IRC as a donor or volunteer, please contact Justin Howell, Development Manager, at [email protected] or 678 636 8929.

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