Sediqa and Lida, mentee and mentor, share their beautiful journey with SEET.
Sediqa’s point of view
My name is Sediqa (Shabnam) Simia, and my story begins in 1986, in a world shaped by conflict. Born during a time of war, my family was forced to leave our homeland, seeking refuge in Iran, where I spent my childhood and teenage years. Despite the uncertainty that came with displacement, I pursued my passion for justice, earning a bachelor’s degree in Law and Political Science and later a master’s degree in Criminal Law and Criminology.
My journey has been one of resilience, shaped by the challenges of migration and the pursuit of knowledge in the face of adversity. However, in 2022, after the Taliban took over Afghanistan, I sought asylum in Switzerland.
I first learned about the SEET program through my Swiss friend, Ruth Loosli, a writer. Her enthusiasm piqued my curiosity, and I delved deeper, exploring SEET’s mission online. The more I learned, the more I felt drawn to it. Here was a program that not only recognized the potential of skilled migrants but actively helped them rebuild their professional lives in Switzerland.
For someone navigating a new country, the challenge isn’t just about qualifications—it’s about finding the right opportunities and support system. SEET offered exactly that: a bridge between experience and opportunity, between past achievements and a future filled with possibilities. Inspired, I decided to apply, hoping to reconnect with my professional path and contribute meaningfully once again.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my SEET journey has been my connection with my mentor. Our shared admiration for Hannah Arendt sparked engaging discussions, but what truly strengthened our bond was something deeper—my mentor had also migrated from Afghanistan years ago and spoke Farsi, creating an instant sense of understanding and connection.
SEET has been instrumental in improving my German language skills, a crucial step for my integration. My mentor introduced me to Ms. Traudi Ferguson, an exceptional teacher from Ireland, who generously provides free online lessons and study materials. Thanks to their support, I achieved a major milestone: earning my TELC B1 certificate.
Beyond mentorship, SEET provided structured language courses and essential resources like computers and language books, empowering me and many others to rebuild our professional and personal lives in a new country.
For newcomers, SEET is more than education and career support—it’s a lifeline. The program helps build professional and social networks, making integration easier and fostering a true sense of community.
Beyond skills development, SEET helps participants regain confidence, hope, and a sense of normalcy. Most importantly, it ensures no one feels alone in their journey. SEET has profoundly shaped my own path, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking support, connection, and belonging.
Lida’s point of view
A year ago, I, Lida Naeim-Jäggi, came across SEET on LinkedIn—a program searching for mentors to support refugees in Switzerland on their academic journey. From the moment I learned about their mission, I was captivated. Here was a group of young people dedicating their time, passion, and energy to making a real difference. Without hesitation, I reached out to the team—and soon, I became part of something truly meaningful.
What started as an opportunity to give back quickly became so much more. As a former refugee from Afghanistan, I understood first-hand how crucial guidance and support are when building a new life in an unfamiliar place. SEET provided exactly that, and I was grateful to contribute. But the most profound part of my journey was meeting my mentee. She opened my eyes to a new perspective on Afghanistan and Afghan women, one I had never experienced before. Her independent thinking about life, freedom, dreams, and education fascinated me and filled me with deep respect and admiration. Our conversations were more than just exchanges of ideas; they were powerful, inspiring, and a testament to the strength and courage of the next generation.
Today, I am deeply grateful to SEET not only for the chance to meet such an extraordinary person, but also for the friendship that grew from this experience.
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