Johan

Johan immigrated from Venezuela with his wife and two children, ages 19 and 13, determined to build a better future. The political conditions in his country pushed him to make one of the hardest decisions of his life: to leave everything behind and start over in a completely new country. 

Upon arriving in the United States, Johan faced many challenges: a new culture, a language barrier, and the urgent need to regularize his immigration status in order to work legally. In the midst of this transition, someone told him about the Centro de los Trabajadores. He didn’t hesitate to visit. “That’s when I became a member,” he says. “The staff at the Centro were so positive and committed, it made me feel safe and supported.” 

Through the Centro, Johan had access to a variety of trainings: English, computer skills, labor rights, financial literacy, cultural orientation, and job interview preparation. Later on, he participated in a technical training program in housekeeping, offered in partnership with MSU University. For Johan, it was one of the most meaningful experiences he’s had since arriving. 

“I learned so much. How to identify cleaning products, what not to mix, how to clean different areas safely, and how to protect your health while doing the job right. Setting foot in a university here, getting hands-on training at hotels, it was truly a unique experience,” he shares. 

The support from the Centro was essential. “There was always someone guiding me, especially my case manager. That kind of support is so important when you're new here,” Johan affirms. Thanks to this preparation, he landed a job in the cleaning and maintenance team at the Centro de los Trabajadores—the same place that once welcomed him in his time of need. 

“Working here is something special. This place opened its doors to me, and I’m deeply thankful—to God and to the Centro,” he says with emotion. 

Today, Johan and his family enjoy a much better quality of life. “Our lives have changed 100%. This has been one of the most meaningful journeys we’ve experienced as a family. The sacrifice was worth it,” he reflects proudly. 

To others who are just starting their migration journey, he offers a message from the heart: “Be patient, be respectful, and stay consistent.” 

For Johan, the Centro de los Trabajadores is much more than an organization. “They’re my family. They were there for me when I was facing uncertainty and hardship. They are truly the best.”