The new Refugees & Immigrants Support and Empowerment (RISE) affinity group recently hosted a Connect & Celebrate event to launch the first resource group for King County employees identifying as immigrants and refugees (I&R).

This gathering marked the beginning of a series of opportunities for I&R employees to meet and network with each other, share their experiences, and find resources to support their personal and professional growth. The goal is to strengthen I&R voices in the workplace.

During the Connect & Celebrate event, participants shared childhood memories of growing up in different parts of the world before coming to the United States. As a group, they also created a tree poster with sticky notes representing each participant’s country of origin.

The event was well-attended by employees from various departments of King County, including Jennifer Hills, the Interim Director of the Office of Equity, Racial, and Social Justice, and Michelle Allison, the Director of Metro Transit, who are the Executive co-sponsors of this employee resource group.

Next meeting is March 11

RISE plans to hold monthly meetings with the next one planned for March 11 at noon. The meetings are envisioned to be a mix of hybrid, in-person, and virtual over Microsoft Teams. While the purpose of these meetings is to center and support those employees who self-identify as first-generation immigrants, these meetings will be open to all interested King County employees. Employees will not be asked to disclose their immigration status.

Depending on people’s interest, some meetings may be in-person or hybrid. If you would like to attend the event or have suggestions or any thoughts concerning future meetings, please email RISE@kingcounty.gov.

Meet the RISE co-chairs

Nasire Khudaiberdiev is a Program/Project Manager III for King County Metro Rail Division. Born and raised in Kyrgyzstan, Nasir is a passionate photographer and filmmaker, capturing diverse narratives and exploring the outdoors, which enriches his creative perspective. His fluency in four languages bridges cultural divides, making him an exceptional communicator and advocate for diversity. Nasir’s multifaceted contributions and dedication to inclusivity and innovation make him an invaluable asset to King County, reflecting the core values of the RISE affinity group and King County Metro.

Dr. Marjan Didra is a Policy and Community Engagement Specialist in the department of Community and Human Services/Adult Services Division. Marjan is originally from Iran and has joined RISE to show her support for immigrant and refugee employees. She believes that by building connections and providing assistance, we can all work together to better serve the diverse communities of King County. Marjan is dedicated to making a positive impact and is excited to contribute her unique perspective to the team.