On 18 December, International Migrants Day, DUO for a JOB highlights Murad’s story. His journey shows how one mentor can make all the difference for a newcomer searching for employment, confidence, and a sense of belonging in Flanders.
A Journey of Perseverance
When Murad arrives in Belgium at the age of 16, fleeing a war-torn Chechnya, everything feels new, strange, and silent.
He learns Dutch, starts in the fourth year of secondary school, and eventually chooses to study law. Murad earns his bachelor’s degree at the University of Antwerp.
“I never stopped. Winning is not what matters – continuing is.”
This mindset comes from his other passion: wrestling. More than a sport, it is a discipline.
“Wrestling teaches you to get back up, again and again.”
A Degree, but No Opportunities
After graduating, reality hits hard.
“I applied constantly, but all I received were rejections. I had no network. It felt like pushing against a closed door.”
This is a familiar barrier for many newcomers on the labour market: the skills are there, but access is missing.
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The Meeting That Changed Everything
In 2021, Murad meets his mentor, Marleen, through DUO for a JOB. An experienced lawyer, warm and open.
“From our very first meeting, I felt that she understood my situation,” he says.
Marleen helps him rewrite his CV, identify his strengths, and above all, dare to be himself.
“I had removed all references to wrestling from my CV. She told me it was actually my greatest strength.”
Shortly afterwards, Murad secures an internship at the law firm A-Law. Today, he works there as a lawyer.
Giving Back What He Received
Alongside his legal career, Murad runs a wrestling club in Antwerp, where young people from diverse backgrounds train together.
“I received so much from Belgium, from my teachers and from my mentor. Now it’s my turn to pass on my experience.”
Why Mentoring Works
Mentoring is not a luxury. For many newcomers, it is the key to real opportunities.
“Without Marleen, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” Murad concludes.
Since 2013, DUO for a JOB has connected more than 10.000 young people with a mentor. Seven out of ten newcomers find a job or training opportunity as a result. One mentor can change a life. And it's job coaching 100% free of charge.
➡️ Curious about DUO for a JOB? Discover our FAQ here and become a mentee.
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