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May 01, 2025
Mariya arrived in the U.S. with her 9-year-old son as a refugee from Ukraine in 2022 and was referred to Zaman International through the PATH program at her local Michigan Works! Service Center. With the support of both Zaman International and Michigan Works!, she enrolled in industrial sewing training, workforce readiness classes, and ESL instruction. She was provided with case management, basic needs assistance and other supportive services.
Thanks to the support she received, Mariya achieved financial stability, improved her English language skills, completed workshops on mental wellbeing and nutrition education, and got her driver's license.
Mariya’s hard work and dedication paved the way for her employment in Zaman International’s sewing factory as a sewing machine operator, and within one year she was accepted into the Registered Apprenticeship program. Mariya completed her apprenticeship in Spring 2024 and now leads special projects and serves as a mentor to her peers. She also oversees Stitch Lab, an experimental space where fashion ideas come to life and where students get pre-employment work experience.
“I came to the US after the war in Ukraine with my 9-year-old son. I was anxious and scared, but ready to start a new life in America,” shared Mariya. “I studied and worked hard. Zaman and my Michigan Works! coach gave me the confidence be a Registered Sewing Apprentice and starting a career.”
Mariya’s dedication to learning continues with her enrollment at Wayne County Community College working towards a degree in Fashion Design.
“Mariya is an example of how Registered Apprenticeship Programs provide a career path for individuals with multiple barriers including language, transportation, childcare and cultural barriers,” explained Gigi Salka, Zaman International Chief Workforce Development Officer. “Registered Apprenticeships build on an individual’s past experience, passion for a particular career and sets them on a pathway for continuous improvement and success.”