Journey to Belonging: Empathy and Understanding for Immigrants is a workshop I created to build bridges of empathy across cultures and help foster a more inclusive, welcoming community. It’s the result of years I've spent working closely with adult learners—many of them immigrants—listening to their stories, witnessing their challenges, and celebrating their resilience.

Through my experience supporting individuals from countries like Ukraine, Mexico, Japan, Venezuela, Saudi Arabia, Nicaragua, Russia, Brazil, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, China, Peru, Cuba, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and many more, I’ve come to deeply understand the immigrant journey—not just in theory, but through real, human connection.

This 2.5-hour experience invites participants to walk in the shoes of immigrants, refugees, and asylees. Using immersive simulations, storytelling, and guided reflection, I challenge common myths, break down stereotypes, and help people see that—no matter where we come from—we all long for the same things: safety, opportunity, peace, and a sense of belonging.

In a time when fear and misinformation often divide us, I offer Journey to Belonging as a space to set politics aside and connect through shared humanity. I believe that when we truly understand each other, we open the door to compassion, and compassion is what builds stronger, more inclusive communities.

- Kristy Szkudlarek

Creator and Facilitator of Journey to Belonging: Empathy and Understanding for Immigrants