The EdTech non-profit, Kiron, has joined forces with global financial services provider, Deutsche Börse, and VC-backed EdTech startup, Virtual Internships, to launch an ambitious hybrid learning and mentoring program for refugees and people with a migrant background in Germany.
The program, MERGE (Mentoring Exchange for Refugee Growth and Empowerment) launched in February 2023 after a successful pilot in 2022. It allows participants to take part in an intensive eight-week learning program with expert professionals from Deutsche Börse, individualized mentoring support, and access to the Virtual Internships program. This includes one-on-one coaching on career pathways, access to an online employability upskilling curriculum, and tailored individual support to access employment.
MERGE is designed for all Kiron learners in Germany who have either an interest in beginning a new career in Finance and Information Technology or those who have some experience in the field and want to boost their skills and prepare to enter the workforce in Germany. Deutsche Börse is prioritizing candidates who have been less able to access quality work experience previously.
“Kiron acknowledges the difficulties our learners face when it comes to finding a job in their new home country – from learning a new language to establishing new contacts,” says Elisa Pellegrino, Mentor Program Manager at Kiron. “This program with Deutsche Börse and Virtual Internships is designed to guide and equip them to overcome these challenges and get back to the job market.”
Learners who complete the course will improve their networking, communication, and presentation skills and boost their employability, ready for their transition to the working world. Not only will they gain industry knowledge from expert presentations and mentoring at Deutsche Börse, but participants will also gain access to new professional networks and learn essential business culture skills. The simultaneous one-on-one mentoring offers students support in putting their newfound skills into practice, searching for relevant jobs, creating a CV, and practicing interview techniques.
“During this internship, I just noticed that there is also a huge information gap. They helped me with some practical things, just like how to present myself, which skills are relevant right now, which skills are not [because they] used to be 10 years before now.” – Sefa, Kiron x VI Alum
Since 2015, Kiron has offered free online learning opportunities to refugees and underserved communities. Kiron’s online learning platform aims to ensure students receive free access to high-quality education for academic, professional and personal growth.
Virtual Internships is the only platform that guarantees underserved audiences a transformative work experience in their chosen industry and region. Every person on the platform, regardless of their background, location or economic status, has access to invaluable work experience through remote internships with companies worldwide, at scale, with customizable matching, and speedy execution.
Notes to Editors:
Employers are placing an increased emphasis on professional experience in this competitive job market. Find out 6 ways to gain job experience!
Not only do internships count as work experience, but they are also one of the most valued experiences by employers. Read why here!
Don't know where to start after a long career break? Read Natalie's experience on our Women Returners Programme and secure your place now.