Reflections from Immigrants @ Affirm
In June, our Immigrants @ Affirm Community Group celebrated Immigrant Heritage Month in the US, which recognizes all immigrants and their contributions to the country. Our Immigrants @ CG was fou aims to recognize and create a sense of belonging for the immigrant community at Affirm and in our communities, foster a safe space for members to speak openly, and promote professional growth.
We recently sat down with two members of the group who share their personal experiences, why they joined Immigrants @ and how they’ve found support and community through the group!
Abbas Ali Amir (he/him/his), Staff Software Engineer, Immigrants@ Affirm Co-lead
“My experience as a member of the Immigrants Community @ Affirm has been very positive and supportive. One of the standout aspects has been the sense of community. Admittedly, I wasn't a very active member initially but attending the last few events fostered a strong sense of belonging. I loved the fact that this community provides a safe environment where you can listen to fellow members' stories and their experiences coming from different countries and cultures. This peer support is instrumental in helping people navigate the complexities of adapting to a new country.
Plus, it’s been awesome meeting people from all over the world. Everyone brings their own culture and perspective, which has been super enriching and eye-opening. Overall, I’ve gone from being a quiet member to feeling like I’m part of a supportive community that really gets me. It’s made a big difference in my life as an immigrant. I look forward to more fun-filling and enriching interactions with the community members in the near future.”
Jennifer Sendeski, MBA, GMS (she/her/hers), People Expansion Manager
"My journey at Affirm Inc. is a true testament to the power of embracing one's immigrant identity. As a Brazilian American and first-generation American, I've delved deep into a rich tapestry of cultures, uncovering profound enrichment at every turn. 💖 What's truly remarkable is how my cultural background has seamlessly woven into my role as a People Expansion Manager, acting as a canvas for me to integrate my diverse experiences, including my 13 years of global mobility expertise, into every aspect of my work. 🌍
Thriving on cultivating connections, fostering understanding, and nurturing empathy across borders, I've found that my unique perspective brings a valuable dimension to our team's dynamics. The unwavering support and camaraderie of Immigrants@ have been the backbone of my journey, infusing it with an incredible sense of belonging and purpose. Each interaction, each shared story, adds another layer to the vibrant fabric of experiences that not only shapes my career but also defines the very essence of our Affirm community. Together, we celebrate the richness of diversity and the extraordinary resilience it brings to our collective journey."