Can Kenya emerge as a role model on refugees?

Kenya’s Refugee Act passed in late 2021 promises to improve refugee access to a range of rights, including freedom of movement, the right to work, better access to financial services, better access to documentation and education, and the ability to start a business. If implemented well, this law could support self reliance for half a million refugees.

R3 Enterprise Spotlight: Livara

This RIN video spotlight tells the story of an R3 (Refugee Supporting) enterprise based in Uganda: Livara Cosmetics. Livara was founded in 2013 as an online store, and has since grown to 6 salons with over 64 employees. Livara has a 22% refugee workforce and plans to expand to 50 salons over the next 5 years.

From Homeless Refugee To Creating a $100 Million Investment Fund

Kanyi Maqubela is an entrepreneur and venture capitalist based in New York. He was born in Soweto, a township outside of Johannesburg, South Africa, during apartheid. To escape this life-threatening environment, his family moved to the United States as refugees in 1986. In 2014, Kanyi and co-founder Steve Jang, raised $56 million to create Kindred Ventures.

Social Impact Fund invests in refugees’ futures

In the United States, a person’s credit score is one of the strongest predictors of financial stability. This key to a strong future can also act as a roadblock to a secure life, especially for new Americans. When RIN and the IRC’s Center for Economic Opportunity launched the Social Impact Fund, the goal was in line with both organizations’ objectives: to help new Americans establish a financial foothold in the US.