A powerful personal testimony emerged during the House Appropriations - Human Resources Division meeting on February 7, 2025, as a former refugee shared her journey from displacement to becoming an emergency room nurse in North Dakota. The speaker, who worked as an integration specialist with Bismarck Global Neighbors, highlighted the immense challenges faced by her family upon arriving in the United States, including language barriers, financial struggles, and the need for community support.

Reflecting on her parents' sacrifices, she emphasized how they prioritized their children's futures over their own dreams. Her father, a trained preacher, maintained his commitment to faith despite losing jobs for refusing to work on Sundays. This dedication to family values and cultural heritage shaped her upbringing and instilled a strong sense of purpose.

The speaker recounted her educational journey, starting with a biology degree and a minor in psychology, which led her to Bismarck in 2017. Faced with financial constraints, she pivoted from her initial goal of medical school to nursing, earning her certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) while working multiple jobs to support her studies. She ultimately enrolled in North Dakota State University’s nursing program, where she balanced night shifts with early morning classes.

Her experience during the COVID-19 pandemic was particularly harrowing, as she witnessed significant loss among her patients, a stark reminder of her past experiences with war and trauma. Despite these challenges, her commitment to helping others remained steadfast, driving her to continue her nursing career.

This heartfelt narrative not only sheds light on the resilience of refugees but also underscores the critical role of community support in facilitating successful integration into society. The speaker's journey serves as an inspiring testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of compassion in healthcare.