When Elizabeth came from the Philippines to work in South Korea as an English teacher, she was never told that her lack of Korean language skills would be such a problem. She’d left behind her young son, her family, and all she holds dear. Yet thanks to a unique program begun by the Maryknoll Sisters, Elizabeth is now learning enough Korean so she can keep her job. 

The United Nations is the latest to recognize the success story that is the Miriam Center for Migrant Women. The UN Committee on Social Development surveyed 190 projects around the world, and the Miriam Center in Seoul was one of 14 chosen to serve as a model for others. 

Non-native migrant workers form the backbone of the world’s economy. Often, though, they find scant resources when they arrive in a new country in search of work. In Korea, the Miriam Center for Migrant Women welcomes these workers into a culture they find unfamiliar. Through activities and resources, non-Koreans find a helping hand. Each success story means Korean society benefits from the cultural and professional contributions migrants have to offer.