Welcomed Through Work: building dignity and opportunities for venezuelan refugees in Brazil

Even while the Welcomed Through Work project was paused, AVSI remained present. Throughout the suspension, AVSI Brasil continued to walk alongside Venezuelan refugees and migrants in Roraima, offering support through small but strategic actions rooted in dignity and care. Now, with the project resumed, vital pathways to employment, education, and social integration are once again open- renewing hope for thousands seeking a better future in Brazil.

For over six years, AVSI Brasil has supported Venezuelan refugees and migrants who come to Brazil because of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in their home country. Through the Welcomed Through Work project, AVSI has provided opportunities for education, professional development, and dignified employment to thousands of people, and continues to do so.  

Located at Brazil’s northern border, the state of Roraima is one of the main entry points for Venezuelan families seeking safety and access to basic human rights. The migration route often starts in Santa Elena de Uairén, Venezuela, with people crossing into Brazil through Pacaraima (RR). 

To address the humanitarian needs caused by this migration, the Brazilian government, in partnership with civil society and international organizations, launched Operation Welcome (Operação Acolhida) in 2018. As part of this joint effort, AVSI Brasil initiated the Welcomed Through Work project, focusing on labor inclusion and social integration for Venezuelan refugees and migrants.

A journey of hope and opportunity: more than just shelter

Since June 2018, AVSI has steadily expanded its presence in Roraima. Today, the organization manages several shelters and reception centers in Boa Vista and Pacaraima, offering far more than physical accommodation.

AVSI’s daily work focuses on building trust and mutual respect, not only with the migrant population but also with host communities. The goal is clear: to provide dignity, protection, and pathways toward autonomy.

In addition to shelter management, AVSI runs educational and professional programs, such as Portuguese language courses, training and preparation for the Brazilian job market. These initiatives take place at the Center for Training and Education (CCE) in Boa Vista, a space jointly managed with Operation Welcome.

The relocation strategy: Why is it important to prepare refugees for formal employment?

The Welcomed through Work project has lasted for six years, despite massive shifts in the global humanitarian landscape, because it is seen as vitally important and successful – it provides long-term solutions for social and economic integration. The project facilitates voluntary internal relocation for refugees and migrants through two main pathways:

• Institutional Relocation (Shelter-to-Shelter): From shelters in Boa Vista to the Casa Bom Samaritano (CBS) in Brasília, where individuals receive social support and job-readiness training for up to three months.
• Relocation by Informed Job Vacancies: Based on formal job offers from companies across Brazil, ensuring labor rights and workplace standards before candidate selection.

Additionally, the Portuguese and professional training courses are critical tools to improve employability for both those who choose relocation and those pursuing local integration in Roraima.

“These courses help open doors to many opportunities and are fundamental for human development.”

Jéssica Monteiro, Coordinator of AVSI’s Welcomed project

A true foundation: “Welcomed project feel like a family”

For people like Alexander José Abaduco, the project has been life-changing. After taking part in Portuguese language courses, Alexander now feels empowered to guide his own community — he is one of the leaders of the Warao indigenous community in the shelters in Boa Vista.

“It’s a knowledge I take with me to instruct my family for the future. One piece of advice I give to people from the refugee community is to take advantage of the opportunities being offered to us. Make the most of them to build a better life.”

Alexander José Abaduco, an AVSI project participant who has recently been relocated to Rio Grande do Sul for a job opportunity

“I hope that everyone arriving in this country finds a way to make the most of the opportunities for employment and stability. AVSI and the Welcomed project feel like family to me.”

Delvalle Coromoto, another project participant, reflects on her eight-year journey in Brazil

Coromoto adds that beyond job support, the project provides psychosocial assistance, child support, and overall family care, making the Welcomed Through Work project a true foundation for a better future.

TESTIMONIALS

Hear directly from those impacted by AVSI’s Welcomed Through Work project—project leaders and participants share their stories of hope, resilience, and transformation. These video testimonials reveal how AVSI empowers Venezuelan refugees and migrants through language, skills training, and community support. Discover the personal journeys behind the project’s success and the deep connections it fosters.

AVSI Brasil remains committed to its mission, recognizing that true welcome means offering not just shelter, but dignity, professional opportunities, and emotional support. Projects like Welcomed Through Work—especially those that are multisectoral and rooted in strong local partnerships—create value far beyond immediate humanitarian needs. By accompanying refugees and migrants on their journey toward autonomy, these initiatives help strengthen the social fabric and support the host country’s economy. They cultivate the conditions for individuals to rediscover their dignity, develop their talents, and contribute meaningfully wherever they are. While many still hope to return to the country they call home, Welcomed Through Work offers a foundation for rebuilding—bringing stability, opportunity, and renewed purpose to individuals, families, and the communities that receive them.

All photos in this article © Matteo Bastianelli, a humanitarian award-All photos in this article © Matteo Bastianelli, an award-winning humanitarian photographer, who accompanied AVSI to document the impactful work we do.