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Global Workers - Hidden Immigrants


 Why it is important to have a community around you as you navigate the seas of re-entry?

The term, “hidden immigrant” refers to individuals and families who have lived abroad for extended periods for reasons such as missions, education, or work. As a hidden immigrant your experiences abroad may not be apparent to others when returning back to your passport country. Therefore, it is challenging for you to communicate the richness of your experiences abroad with others who may not fully understand or appreciate your time abroad. And may cause you to feel a sense of disconnection and/or find it difficult to relate to people who have not had similar experiences. 

 

This concept underscores the need for support and understanding within your communities to help you navigate the complexities and challenges of re-entry. A supportive community plays a crucial role in helping navigate this transition of re-entry with you.

 

Six common areas of re-entry that a supportive community can walk alongside you are:

1)    Cultural adjustment

2)    Identity and belonging

3)    Shared experiences

4)    Well-being and wholeness

5)    Resources and networking

6)    Professional development

 

Therefore, a supportive community is essential when re-entering your passport country because it provides understanding, guidance, and companionship during what can be a significant life transition. This community can play a vital role in helping you navigate the complexities of returning back after living abroad.

 

Are We There Yet? Navigating Re-Entry is a Facebook group for global workers who are in the midst of re-entering to their passport country or in the decision-making process to re-enter. It is a safe space to be heard and understood as we communicate the richness of our experiences abroad. The goal of the group is to add value, support, network, and share with one other our joys and hardships right where we are in the re-entry process. Join us as we encourage one another – adding strength to our bellies.

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