How did you come to be interested in working with refugees?
My interest grew from my fieldwork coordination role. I arranged placements in culturally diverse settings, including the International Rescue Committee, and I was intrigued by what the students wrote about their experiences.
I volunteered with the International Rescue Committee as a “mentor" for a refugee family. I still see the family and help them out regularly. Then I supervised a few student qualitative research projects with refugees along with numerous short and long fieldwork experiences.
What has your work involved?
I’m on the steering committee for a project at one of the apartment complexes where many refugees live. The project is called University Neighbourhood Partners - Hartland Apartments. We have an office at the complex where classes and services are available. We offer classes in English, managing personal finances, lifeskills, and computers along with activities for children.
I currently have two grants; one pays for an OT student to focus on employment issues and the other funds the Somali Bantu women’s group that I run. This group provides the opportunity to identify occupational issues and develop solutions. Click on this link to see the Somali Bantu Women's Group in action: Somali Bantu Women's Group.
What are some occupational issues you address?
Many of the families have come from refugee camps in Africa and they are totally unfamiliar with how to live in an apartment, use public transportation and get a job here. So the OT students provide life skills classes including pre-driver training, public transportation training, home safety, home cleanliness, and pre-employment classes. We also offer IADL training including:
• use of appliances and telephone
• changing light bulbs
• telling time
• using a calendar
• public transportation
• bank accounts, budgeting, paying bills
• using a post office
• basic English related to daily activities.
Any future plans or initiatives in this area?
I’m working toward a doctorate degree investigating the intersection of the personal experiences of the Somali Bantu and the institutions they come in contact with at local, state and international levels.
How does occupational expertise assist your refugee work?
My OT background has been very helpful! I think OTs bring several perspectives that are key to creating a meaningful life in a new environment. This includes:
• Recognition the importance of meaningful occupation
• Recognition of the environmental context (family, setting, community network in America versus in the camps, etc.)
• Task analysis skills (creating the "just right" challenge)
• Individual assessment of ability and function
Thankyou for sharing your story with OOFRAS OTs around the globe! For more information?
Yda J. Smith, MOT, OTR/L
Clinical Instructor
Div. of Occupational Therapy
520 Wakara Way
Salt Lake City, UT 84108
801-585-9589
