Breaking barriers, inspiring success: Celebrating the achievements of We Speak We LEAD Spring 2023 graduates
Binny, Martha, and Ana are the facilitators of We Speak We LEAD Spring 2023 program.
It is uniquely powerful to witness a group of immigrant women celebrating a triumph in their lives. Their ability to open their hearts and share their experiences, breaking through language barriers to communicate their emotions, dreams, and achievements in a language they have learned and embraced as their own, is truly inspiring. These brave and resilient women are graduates of the We Speak We LEAD Spring 2023 program, ready to embark on a new path within the US workforce.
On Friday, June 23, We Speak We LEAD Spring 2023 proudly celebrated the graduation of its participants. This diverse group of 17 determined immigrant women devoted eight weeks to improving their English language skills while preparing for the US workforce.
The graduation ceremony took place at the Surrogate’s Courthouse, an awe-inspiring historic building located in Lower Manhattan, and was jointly hosted by the NYC Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) and New Women New Yorkers. As the hall filled with infectious smiles and heartfelt hugs, the atmosphere became charged with emotion. Graduates, families, and friends from around the world paused their daily routines to join in this momentous celebration.
The evening commenced with a captivating keynote address from MOIA members Kareema Hussein, Program Director of We Speak NYC; Alejandro Cercas, Project Coordinator of We Speak NYC; Jasniya Sanchez, Deputy Chief of Staff of MOIA; and Kibel Manzano of New Women New Yorkers. This was followed by heartfelt remarks to the graduates by Ana Reza, one of the co-facilitators of the program.
The hall brimmed with anticipation as former LEAD and We Speak We LEAD program graduates, now program facilitators Binny Rosario, Martha Arbelaez, and Ana Reza, proudly presented the diplomas. One of the graduates, Laura Puerta, shared her workshop experience and added a touch of humor. As caps flew in the air, applause erupted from guests who shared in the joy of the moment.
Next, Commissioner of the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) Manuel Castro graced the floor with a meaningful speech for the graduates and participants.
The evening continued with an extraordinary performance by the sarAika dance group, contributing their energetic and beautiful contemporary dance to the event.
The Surrogate’s Court House buzzed with harmonious music, delightful photos, delectable food, and an excellent ambiance throughout the evening. Every corner of the hall exuded camaraderie, creating unforgettable memories for all in attendance.
Since that remarkable day, the 17 graduates of We Speak We LEAD have etched their names in the annals of New Women New Yorkers’ history. They now possess the power to soar with their own wings, grow stronger, and continue to achieve their goals.
About We Speak We LEAD: We Speak We LEAD is a free workforce development and professional English learning program exclusively designed for immigrant women who are elementary or intermediate English learners. Facilitated entirely in English, this program is offered through a collaboration between New Women New Yorkers and We Speak NYC at the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA). Learn more about the program here.
