Each year, RYSE supports over 200 refugees from more than 20 countries, helping them navigate life in Luxembourg through mentorship, volunteering, and job opportunities.

First launched in 2017, RYSE's core team is now complemented by more than 100 volunteers as part of their mission to support beneficiaries in building an integrated and financially independent future in Luxembourg.

Francesca Tavanti, co-founder and director of projects at RYSE, explains their main goal: "It's about giving refugees a chance to start a new life." She adds that achieving this requires integration, learning the necessary languages, meeting people, and building a network in Luxembourg.

Their work is centred around three main pillars: a mentorship program, volunteering opportunities, and initiatives that connect mentees with potential employers.

By matching mentors and beneficiaries, RYSE aims to support and facilitate refugees’ integration, while offering a support system and an anchor in Luxembourg. Tavanti, who oversees the matching process, notes that each match is carefully made: "We don't do random matching." She considers each beneficiary’s needs and future steps before carefully selecting a suitable mentor.

Through this mentorship, mentees receive guidance during what can be a challenging period of adjustment, of social integration, and of cultural adaptation.

Volunteering, on the other hand offers refugees a chance to gain valuable professional experience. Rachel Thornton, RYSE’s Funding & Strategy Coordinator explains that these placements help beneficiaries build confidence, develop skills, and demonstrate initiative to future employers: "Local employers are really enthusiastic that they've already got some experience."

In addition to these programs, RYSE also connects employers directly with refugees seeking work. Thornton highlights that part of their mission is understanding employers’ needs and finding the right match among their beneficiaries.

Small team, mighty dedication

Running an NGO is not always smooth sailing. Thornton describes the challenges of operating a small team and supporting hundreds of refugees on a tight budget. "We're always seeking partners, foundations, corporations, individuals. We always welcome donations." While RYSE accepts private donations, they work closely with partners like the André Losch foundation, the Permira foundation, and organisations like Alasol.

Although running an NGO comes with financial difficulties, the rewards of the work make it worthwhile: “We learn a lot from them", says Tavanti, describing the rich experiences she has on the job. She adds: "They teach us how to stick to real values in life."

Tavanti recalls a particular beneficiary with pride: "When she arrived here, she was extremely traumatised and hesitant to accept help from strangers." But over time, as trust was built and a bond was created, Tavanti paired her with a mentor. Though the asylum process, trauma, and cultural integration were tough, the beneficiary eventually found a job in Luxembourg and was able to settle in the country. "We’re just supporting her and accompanying her", says Tavanti, "she was the one fighting."

Over the years, some beneficiaries have gone on to become team members at RYSE. Suzana Musie is one of them. Originally from Eritrea, she arrived in Luxembourg in 2021.

"When I first arrived, I spent all my time at home, just waiting for the ministry to process my papers," she recalls. Then a friend told her about the organisation, and she reached out. As she puts it: "The rest is history."

How to get involved

For Thornton, it’s clear that there’s a lot of misinformation about refugees. She emphasises just how keen people are to get involved: "They want to contribute, they want to integrate, they want to work and they want to be part of their new environment."

Currently, there are over 100 people on their waiting list. This high level of interest means RYSE needs more volunteers and community support. They're continuously looking for new members. While particularly interested in French-speaking mentors, anybody willing to join can reach out.

Would you like to join RYSE as a volunteer or a mentor? Apply here.