Coaching as a Catalyst for Social Change at Refugee Jumpstart Coaching

This downloadable case study offers an inspiring look at how coaching can transform lives and societies through the story of Refugee JumpStart Coaching (RJS), the 2024 ICF Coaching Impact Award winner in the Social Impact category. Founded in 2021 by former Syrian refugee Hussein Alzribi and leadership coach Bev Weise, RJS demonstrates how coaching for refugees can serve as a catalyst for resilience, belonging, and meaningful contribution among refugees rebuilding their lives.

This downloadable case study shines a light on the power of coaching to change lives and communities through the story of Refugee JumpStart Coaching (RJS), recipient of the 2024 ICF Coaching Impact Award for Social Impact. Founded in 2021 by former Syrian refugee Hussein Alzribi and leadership coach Bev Weise, RJS illustrates how coaching can spark resilience, foster belonging, and unlock meaningful contributions as refugees rebuild their lives with courage and hope.

From its base in California to its global reach, RJS has already touched the lives of more than 100 refugees worldwide. The program takes a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach, recognizing both the unique challenges of displacement — loss, cultural barriers, credentialing hurdles — and the wealth of talent, experience, and drive that refugees bring to their new communities.

Blending coaching with mentoring, RJS offers flexible, hybrid support across continents. Coaches help clients build confidence, identify new career pathways, and strengthen intercultural communication skills, while also providing ongoing guidance as refugees settle into workplaces and communities.

The ripple effects of this work extend far beyond individual participants. Empowered refugees not only strengthen their families and communities back home, but also enrich their host societies by becoming active, valued members. Employers benefit from more confident, collaborative team members; local communities gain from refugees’ skills and participation; and many clients go on to give back, motivated by gratitude and lived understanding of resilience.

Through compelling client stories and insights from its founders, this case study demonstrates that coaching is far more than a tool for individual growth — it is a force for social impact, economic empowerment, and renewed hope for a brighter future.