How I Came Here

From Baku to Portland: Embracing Change and Bringing Value

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2270419/open_sms] Tarlan Ahmadov, Founder & President of Azerbaijan Society of Maine, a respected leader in the immigrant community shares his story of integration. From Baku, Azerbaijan to Portland, ME, Tarlan encountered many challenges while trying to adjust to a new life. But today he finds himself in a position to help other people who might be facing some of the same challenges he uncounted. Tarlan's story demonstrate the value and impact immigrants make in their new communities and beyond.

Adapting to the American Reality

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2270419/open_sms] What do you do when you are dealt bad cards? Do you stop and give up or continue and make something out of what you have? In this episode, I share my life story taking you back to the village where I was born and refugee camp where I spent time before immigrating to America. My journey at 17, with little formal education and very limited English skills, is a testament to pure resilience. I share how early adversities shaped my perspective and prepared me for the challenge of adapting to life in a new country. This episode is a heartwarming tribute to the courage and hope that define the immigrant experience. If you’ve been moved by the stories shared on "How I Came Here," I invite you to support the podcast and help us continue celebrating the diversity, resilience, and influence of immigrants in Maine. Your generous support, whether through Patreon, Venmo, or CashApp, enables us to keep bringing these powerful stories to light. Patreon:https://patreon.com/HowICameHere05?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink [https://patreon.com/HowICameHere05?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink] Venmo: @johnohira CashApp: $JohnOhira

Building a New Life Far from Home

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2270419/open_sms] Can you imagine arriving in a new country with nothing but hope and determination? That's exactly what our guest, Dr. Kasim Sembatya, experienced when he moved from Uganda to Maine in 2005. He recounts his incredible journey, facilitated by his older sister and brother-in-law, and the stark contrasts between life in Uganda and the United States. Kasim's story is a powerful testament to the resilience and and determination of immigrants. He shares his story and amazing tips on how to integrate and succeed. He is willing to talk with anyone who is interested in pursuing a career in the medical field. Feel free to reach out to him by email: kassim.sembatya@gmail.com.  If you find value in this episode, please share your reactions and feedback with us at: info@howicamehere.com. Also, please feel free to like and share the show on your favorite podcast platform. Thank you very much.