Migration is often influenced by political and economic factors, conflict, instability, and more recently, the impacts of climate change. The World Migration Day on 18^th December was established to honor the contributions of migrants and recognize their rights, an occasion that aligns with the core values of unity, compassion, and understanding. In the true spirit of the holiday season, migration consultancy experts Global Citizen Solutions joined forces with Portugal-based NGO, Lisbon Project, for an all-day event providing free consultation to local community members.

More than 65 people signed up for the Insight Hub on 18th December at the Lisbon Project headquarters, seeking guidance on various bureaucratic matters. An expert team of legal, rental and lifestyle specialists from Global Citizen Solutions offered one-on-one consultations advice on how to obtain a tax identification number, nationality and visa-related matters, rental agreements, business establishment, CV revisions, and healthcare services in the country. In addition, Global Citizen Solutions Head of People and Culture, Mónica Pinheiro, ran two job market workshops providing key tools and training materials to empower the attendees with knowledge for their upcoming job interviews. “The workshops provided an opportunity for community members to discuss their most common questions regarding Portuguese labor laws, work-related accidents, and parental leave for new mothers and fathers. Through our consultation, we aim to equip them with more tools to navigate the complex world of migration,” explains Mónica Pinheiro.

“Regardless of the motivations driving individuals to relocate, migrants and displaced populations embody some of the most susceptible segments of society. They frequently encounter restricted access to crucial services such as healthcare due to a lack of information on the systems of their new home. This special event aimed to provide our team´s collective knowledge as visa and relocation consultants to assist and support the community members of the Lisbon Project who are grappling with bureaucratic challenges,” explains Patricia Casaburi, CEO at Global Citizen Solutions.

NGO Lisbon Project, a non-governmental organization based in Lisbon, boasts a thriving community of more than 3000 members. Dedicated to providing high-impact, cost-effective programs that support migrants and refugees, the Lisbon Project is a beacon of hope and assistance. Their diverse range of programs includes language classes in Portuguese and English, employment workshops, entrepreneurship support, legal aid, and community-life initiatives.

“This special day serves as a reminder to celebrate diversity, promote inclusion, and acknowledge the resilience of those who have embarked on journeys to build a better life for themselves and their communities. We hope to expand this service and offer more collaborative experiences to migrants and refugees in and outside Portugal,” concludes Patricia Casaburi.

“We are grateful to join hands with Global Citizen Solutions to bring this special Immigration Support Day to our community in this season of Christmas. At the Lisbon Project, we strongly believe in collaboration, and this event is the fruit of values we hold dear: empathy, love, empowerment, and at our core, community. Unfortunately, many of our community members are often faced with situations of fraud, misinformation and exploitation on the difficult yet courageous road of migration. This initiative has given our community access to reliable information and remind each participant that they are not alone. Empowerment is a gift that keeps on giving!” points out Gabriela Faria, Founder and CEO at the Lisbon Project.