Luismar - A Guiding Light
When Luismar arrived in the United States from Venezuela in 2024, she came with her son and a heart full of hope. Fleeing insecurity and a future that felt out of reach, she was determined to build a better life — one filled with dignity, independence, and opportunity. But the road ahead was filled with uncertainty. She didn’t speak the language, knew no one, had no legal permission to work, and no place to call home.
Everything began to change when she was introduced to the Centro de los Trabajadores through the WorkReady program at a local shelter. For the first time since arriving, she found a place that not only welcomed her but also believed in her potential. El Centro became her anchor.
Through El Centro, Luismar enrolled in English classes and quickly immersed herself in additional trainings in computer skills, labor rights, and cultural and workplace integration. She also participated in a hospitality course offered in partnership with MSU and SAGE Hospitality in 2025 — an opportunity that became a turning point in her journey.
These trainings opened doors. With the support of the Centro’s employment preparation — from resume building to interview coaching and continued one-on-one guidance — Luismar secured a job at a hotel. Within just four months, her dedication and leadership earned her a promotion to Housekeeping Supervisor.
She credits the Centro de los Trabajadores not only for helping her find work, but for helping her recover something even more valuable: her dignity. Workshops on leadership, conflict resolution, and personal empowerment helped her see herself not just as a worker, but as a leader — someone capable of guiding others.
Today, Luismar is proud to say she is stable, independent, and building a new life for herself and her son. Her story is one of transformation — and gratitude.
“My life has completely changed. I’m so thankful to God and to the WorkReady Program for this opportunity. To those who are just starting this journey, I was once where you are. Don’t give up. Go to el Centro de los Trabajadores — they will help you, too.”
For Luismar, el Centro de los Trabajadores is not just a place — it’s a guiding light that helped her reclaim her future.