Arriving in 2014
Amani and his two brothers are originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo. They resettled through Arrive Ministries in 2014. Our employment counselor, Anya helped Amani land a job his first weeks in Minnesota, and register for classes at Inver Hills Community College.
“Amani had great communication skills, he spoke at least 4 or 5 languages when I met him, and his English was perfect. He was driven and ready to study and work. I remember buying his books and a guitar for his first semester at Inver Hills,” said Anya.
At first all three brothers lived together and shared one car to get to all of their jobs.
“I had to take 3 buses to get to school in Inver Grove Heights. It was difficult.”
“I often relied on my sister to bring me to work and school. An Arrive Ministries staff person also helped me learn how to take the bus, I had to take 3 buses to get to school in Inver Grove Heights. It was difficult,” said Amani.
Hard Work Pays Off
Amani worked very hard during his first few years in Minnesota, going to school in the mornings and working multiple jobs on the weekends and weekday evenings.
Within one year of arriving in the U.S. Amani passed his driver’s license test, bought an Audi sedan, and bought a home in Apple Valley where he says he enjoys the quiet community in a diverse neighborhood.
Amani has come a long way, not just geographically from Congo, but in terms of personal growth.
“The adjustment wasn’t dramatic, the lifestyle is similar to the years we spent as refugees in South Africa before arriving in Minnesota, plus it’s easy to get a job here,” said Amani.
“It was such a joy to walk alongside this Congolese family and help them navigate their new beginnings…”
“All three brothers learned how to adapt well making their move to the U.S. very smooth. It was such a joy to walk alongside this Congolese family and help them navigate their new beginnings in the Midwest,” said Anya.
Where is Amani Now?
Amani graduated with an Associate’s Degree from Inver Hills Community College in 2019, and he is working at Best Buy.
Amani and his brothers are also starting the process of obtaining U.S. Citizenship through Arrive Ministries Immigration Legal Services Department.
Amani has many hopes and dreams. In addition to becoming a U.S. Citizen, he hopes to continue his education and earn a Bachelor’s Degree.
