Elevating refugee voices

In 2016, the Colorado Refugee Speakers Bureau (CRSB) began building connections and sharing stories and experiences of Colorado’s refugees with communities across the state, with the hope of creating a more inclusive environment. This year, two of JFS’s clients in our Yana Vishnitsky Refugee Resettlement program joined the CRSB and spoke on World Refugee Day to share their journeys. 

Every year, new refugees are invited to apply to join the CRSB. When JFS’s Lead Refugee Employment Specialist, April Fautsch, heard that the Speaker’s Bureau was accepting new members, she reached out to Cairo Rudacyahwa and Naila Siradji, both from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, to see if they were interested in the opportunity. 

Cairo and Naila, along with six other new inductees, spoke at the most recent annual showcase to a crowd that included family members, others in human services agencies and refugee services, city leaders, and people connected to the refugee community. Along with several other New Americans, speakers shared their journeys, experiences, and perspectives, with messages of resilience and hope. Guests also enjoyed culturally relevant food while the Speakers Bureau supported local small businesses. 

“As I listened to all the speakers, I was inspired on many levels,” said Fautsch. “First, by each speaker’s boldness to stand on a stage in front of an audience and articulate their journeys in English, which is the second, third, or fourth language of all the speakers. We heard about the immense challenges the speakers have overcome, and I was in awe of their resilience and what they have achieved since arriving in their new city: one speaker has become involved in local government, and another is studying law so he can help other newcomers understand legal documents and processes. Naila was bright-eyed and preparing to start her first year at university, while Cairo has pursued his passion for linguistics and helped others by providing medical interpreting at Denver’s biggest hospitals. As I listened, I felt such a level of respect and appreciation for how enriched Colorado’s communities are by the joy, unique perspectives, and drive our refugee neighbors bring to the table.” 

Watch stories from the Colorado Refugee Speakers Bureau’s 2026 World Refugee Day Showcase, including Cairo and Naila’s powerful reflections. We know you’ll feel inspired!