A new immigrant and refugee welcome center is opening in Polk County in 2025. The hub for refugees and immigrants, which has been designed with community input to create an inclusive environment, will feature professionals who provide confidential and sensitive spaces, services related to employment, housing and education, and transition programs for new Iowans living in the capitol. Sućeska, the center’s Manager of Operations, and Moris, Director of the Refugee Alliance of Central Iowa, will share more about this first-of-its-kind hub in Iowa and the county’s plans for supporting its foreign-born population, the largest growing demographic in the state.
Mak Sućeska serves as the Manager of Operations for Global Neighbors, Immigrant and Refugee Welcome Center through Polk County. Mak originates from Sarajevo, Bosnia and was transplanted to Des Moines in 1993 as a refugee, fleeing from war-torn Yugoslavia with his family. Mak's professional career has been devoted to advocating and supporting refugees and immigrants across the state in an effort to promote a more equitable community for all. With over 14 years of experience in non-profits, state and county government, it's Mak's life journey that provides a unique and necessary perspective in guiding his work. Mak completed his political science undergraduate studies at the University of Iowa with a double minor in religion and history. He achieved his CPM and MPA degree through Drake University with an emphasis on public policy, and plans to pursue his doctorate degree in Educational Leadership through Drake University. In Mak's words, "Education, Accessibility and Opportunity are the keys to success".
Stephanie Moris is the Director of the Refugee Alliance of Central Iowa. She has been involved with the Alliance since 2013 and has worked with refugee and immigrant communities in education, employment, and wrap-around direct case management before joining RACI. Stephanie obtained her Bachelors Degree from Iowa State University and after worked in the Dominican Republic for 3 years where she met her husband. Outside of work Stephanie is very passionate about empowering our refugee and immigrant communities, immigration rights, and connecting our community together. She volunteers as a mentor and teaches Spanish.
Register for the event at https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/k63532q