Olivier was born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. When he was nine, his family fled to Burundi because of war. They were resettled as refugees in a city instead of a refugee camp. While in Burundi, Olivier graduated high school and went on to receive a certificate to practice engineering.
His family came to the United States in 2018 and resettled in Roanoke. Olivier attended the CCC Newcomers Class, an intensive four-week class that covers many topics from survival English, cultural orientation, using public transportation, accessing medical services, learning the U.S. monetary and banking systems, employment readiness, and work skills training.
With the help of CCC's employment specialist, Olivier soon found work in a local factory. He also qualified for, and received, a vehicle which had been donated to CCC.
Earlier this year, Olivier began studying electrical engineering at the local community college and also took a new position on the production line at a bakery where he was soon promoted and received a raise. With the new job came the flexibility to volunteer with CCC.
Oliver, who speaks fluent French, is helping another family integrate into their new lives in the United States. The family, newly-arrived from the Ivory Coast, speaks no English. Olivier helped them set-up a Zoom account for their English language lessons and has been acting as their translator with other CCC staff and volunteers.
“We are so thankful for this kind young man," said Betsy Hale, CCC MYVA Coordinator. "We could not have helped this family without Olivier's support."
Olivier is an active and enthusiastic member of St. Gerard’s Catholic Church where he sings in the choir and reads the lecture.