by StreetWise Partners
August 1st, 2025

Relocating from Peru to New York City in her 50s was both a bold and daunting decision for Vivian. She spent over two decades working at a major insurance company in Lima, starting as a salesperson and steadily rising through the ranks from supervisor to manager, and eventually becoming the deputy manager of the department. However, upon arriving in the U.S., she found herself feeling lost.

“For many immigrants in their 50s, it can be frustrating when every step feels slow and difficult,” she said. “I didn’t know where to start. I didn’t even have a resume.”

Vivian first heard about StreetWise Partners through Catholic Charities, where she was taking English classes and working part-time as an outreach assistant. When she learned that StreetWise Partners offered mentorship and comprehensive guidance for navigating the U.S. job market, she enrolled in the Fall 2021 Program.

She was matched with her mentor Marsha, a senior project manager. With Marsha's guidance and support, she crafted her first U.S. resume, built her LinkedIn profile, and practiced mock interviews.

“Marsha is my angel,” said Vivian. “She was always there to support me in the process.”

The program gave Vivian the tools and confidence she needed to take the next step. She soon returned to Catholic Charities as a full-time Outreach Coordinator. Two years later, she was promoted to Program Manager, where she launched a new initiative to help immigrants become certified home health aides.

“Participating in the StreetWise Partners program has opened my eyes to the many opportunities available for newcomers. With the support of a great mentor, I’ve learned how to leverage and boost my previous skills effectively. This experience has truly empowered me to pursue my goals with renewed determination.”

Vivian’s dream is to continue working with people and helping them to do what she once did: rebuild, reinvent, and rise.

You can help someone like Vivian reinvent their career and their life. Become a mentor today.