Vanessa Alexander explains the Skilled Refugee Labor Agreement Pilot (a pathway for Afghan refugees)

You will be inspired to hear the compelling refugee advocate Vanessa Alexander, who has helped scores of refugees settle in Australia and other safe countries. Vanessa is also an award-winning screenwriter, producer and director. MC for the event will be Mick O’Regan.

Northern Rivers For Refugees (NRFR) is currently racing against time to secure employment for a young Afghani man, Amir*, who has fled to Iran with his wife, Sahar, to escape persecution by the Taliban.

Sahar has been detained by the Taliban and tortured for her journalism and activism for women's rights. Amir is an experienced accountant, who speaks good English and comes with strong references. He received a scholarship to complete post-graduate study in Iran, but within a year, they will be deported back to face an uncertain future in Afghanistan.

NRFR has the financial means to bring them to Australia under the skilled migrant visa program. All Amir needs is the secure offer of a job, after which they will be issued visas by the Australian Government. NRFR will pay all visa and transport costs and will assist with accommodation and settlement in the community

NRFR aims to provide ongoing opportunities for businesses in the region to help resettle refugees.

At our Stone & Wood event on January 22, you will hear how this is made possible through Talent Beyond Boundaries, an organisation which facilitates resettlement to Australia through the skilled migrant visa program (see link below).

You will also hear from local businesses that have already employed refugees, and we have invited families who have been settled in the local area.

Northern Rivers For Refugees is in close contact with Amir and Sahar and has provided ongoing support and financial assistance, including English tutoring for Sahar.