Stories

Hope in Action: Stories from the Frontlines of Humanitarian Work

On World Humanitarian Day, we pause to honor not only the millions of humanitarians who step forward in times of crisis, but also our very own colleagues who embody courage, kindness, and creativity in the face of extraordinary challenges.
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Every day, Alight team members around the world go out of their way to support people who have been displaced. They give hope where it’s needed most, they show up with compassion, and they live out our belief in being bravely better for others. Their work is a reminder that even in the hardest of circumstances, humanity can shine bright.

John Ntibiringirwa

"When working with refugees you have to stay calm and you have to persist. I hear people sharing tragic stories with me, some are desperate, some say 'I am nothing now', but I always encourage them not to lose hope. I advise them on what to do next, I counsel them, and I’m giving them hope actually."

John Ntibiringirwa

Showing up for others

At Uganda’s Bunagana border with Eastern DRC, John Ntibiringirwa is the first face of welcome for thousands fleeing violence. As the only Alight staff member stationed at this crossing, John registers new arrivals, coordinates transport, and works closely with UNHCR – often from early morning into the night.

From January to June 2025, he supported nearly 4,000 asylum seekers – many of who ask for him by name, having heard how he made others feel seen and safe.

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John Ntibiringirwa

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Passing on hope

Hope is what got Mariam Alam Zaki through her hardest moments. As she arrived in the US in 2022, she felt homesick, hopeless and lonely. But through participation in Alight’s Afghan Women’s Sewing Social – a special program designed with and for Afghan women, she found a sense of belonging, regained her confidence, and discovered that hope could be shared and passed on to others facing similar struggles.

Once a participant of the program, Mariam has since grown into a leader, now guiding and mentoring new members who joined the fourth cohort of Afghan Women’s Sewing Social. I can help these ladies, because I’ve been through what they are experiencing: feeling out of place, disconnected from friends and family and depressed. Back in Afghanistan I used to be a midwife, and as part of my training I had to learn how to communicate well with women, to help them deal with the problems beyond bearing children. I’m good at listening and I enjoy helping them says Mariam.

Mariam Alam Zaki

Also working for Alight’s US program is Boona Hamza, who assists the newcomers as the Resettlement Network Services Guide. Once a newcomer himself, Boona can relate to the struggles and challenges faced by the people who try to rebuild their lives.

“In the region of the world where I come from we use the word Abshir – literally meaning ‘good news’. We say it to comfort someone in difficult situation, reminding them that things will change for the better. Many of the people seeking Alight’s support are desperate: they don’t know the language, they can’t find a good job – I assist them in sorting out the practical issues, and remind them that the struggle is temporary, and things will eventually open up, and life will begin to feel lighter again” shares Boona.

Boona Hamza (far right)

Bravely being better

Humanitarian work is demanding not only because helping others requires grit and empathy, but also because it often takes place in difficult circumstances – amid conflict, displacement, and scarcity. These are some of the challenges faced daily by Alight team members in Myanmar. Focusing on malaria control – a pressing public health issue often disrupted by violence and instability – they navigate logistical and security hurdles to reach those most in need.

One of them, Dr. Sai Kham Khay, often works in remote villages, where no health facilities exist, and the nearest services are hours away. During one such visit, in Ta’ang village in Northern Shan State, his mobile clinic team delivered malaria prevention, treatment, and primary healthcare – and also diagnosed 11 cases of leprosy. Recollecting that day, Dr Sai shares: “For many villagers, it was their first encounter with healthcare in their village. The gratitude and relief on their faces remain vivid, a powerful testament to the impact of our work and a reminder that even small efforts can profoundly change lives."

Another shining example of dedication is Thant Zin Oo (Victor), from the Myanmar team. Engaging directly with communities during field visits, Victor connects with local people, witnesses their struggles, and co-create with them solutions that work. Dealing with logistical challenges, security threats and limited resources, witnessing the impact of his work is what motivates Victor to go on: The heartfelt gratitude expressed by dedicated volunteers and patients battling illnesses like malaria gives me strength and encouragement, and inspires me to push harder in my role”.

Dr. Sai Kham Khay (left) and Thant Zin Oo (right)

Colleagues like John, Mariam, Boona, Dr.Sai, and Victor show us what it means to bring courage and compassion into the world’s hardest places. Their stories are a reminder that humanity shines not only in moments of crisis, but in the everyday acts of care and kindness that transform lives.

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