Mulasi is a vibrant young woman with a compassionate nature are truly inspiring. Her energy and zest for life shine through her colorful personality and fashion choices—like many teenage girls, she is a true fashionista! Yet, behind this joyful exterior lies a story of profound courage and resilience.
A Journey of Survival and Strength
Born in Africa, in the hot and humid rainforest of the Congo, Mulasi grew up in a home constructed primarily of wooden leaves and timber. Without electricity, a refrigerator, or indoor plumbing, her early life was marked by simplicity. Her parents were hardworking farmers, and Mulasi, the fourth of six children, experienced both the warmth of a close-knit family and the challenges of a modest upbringing.
Tragedy struck when Mulasi was just 7 years old. One night, she and her family were jolted awake by the sound of gunfire. They rushed outside to find their home and the homes of their neighbors ablaze. In the chaos, Mulasi’s father instructed her to run and not look back while he went back to find her mother and siblings. Tragically, Mulasi never saw her family again.
Adapting to a New World
One day, Mulasi and her relatives received the life-changing news that they would be moving to the United States. Arriving in Wisconsin, the winter was a shocking experience for Mulasi. The cold was overwhelming, and the new environment felt like an entirely different world.
Nevertheless, Mulasi adapted quickly and began high school. She was amazed by the kindness of the students and teachers and found it astonishing to see the abundance of food at lunchtime and the amount that was discarded.
Working with her guidance counselor, Mulasi was introduced to our Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program and has been an enthusiastic participant from the start. Initially, a translator was needed for every conversation, but she has since made remarkable progress and now communicates independently. Last summer, Mulasi enjoyed a paid work experience at a local YMCA working with individuals through programs and activities where she was warmly welcomed and embraced.
Building a Future with Resilience and Hope
With an established routine and a compassionate support system in place, Mulasi has the confidence to think forward to the future. She’s discovered her dream is to work in healthcare. Over the past year, her English skills have improved significantly, and she continues to develop her writing and computer skills to prepare for college.
She and her WIOA career planner are currently focusing on finding an entry-level position as a dietary aide in a nursing home or hospital to build up her experience as she takes the necessary steps into her dream career field. Transportation remains a challenge, as public transit ends too early and doesn’t operate on weekends. Although Mulasi does not yet know how to ride a bike—a potential hurdle she finds amusing—she remains determined to overcome any obstacles in her path.
Twelve years ago, a father told his young daughter to run to safety. Today, that daughter is living in the United States, attending high school in Wisconsin, and rapidly learning a fourth language. Mulasi is a hard worker, a helper, and a beacon of joy with dreams and goals for a brighter future. She is strong, she is a survivor, and her story is one of remarkable courage and hope. We are honored to be a part of this incredible person’s journey and can’t wait to see what is in store for her.
