Ah Sei Ma, 12 years old, came to New Jersey with her family six years ago from Burma.
She has learned English, is an honor student, excels in math and science, and dreams of becoming a doctor. Her parents support her dream but they struggle to know how to help her achieve it.
A girl empowerment workshop sponsored by Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Camden will offer help. Margaret Chin of the Asian American Women’s Coalition will address immigrant students and their mothers about professional and educational opportunities available to girls.
Ms. Chin is a retired Philadelphia high school principal who has worked with students from Burma. She will share success stories of Asian immigrants and refugees who have overcome obstacles. A discussion will also take place about the need for parenting guidance, including enforcing rules about bedtimes and homework.
The workshop will be held on Thursday, April 24, at 4 p.m. at the Catholic Charities offices at 1845 Haddon Avenue, Camden. A workshop directed to boys will be held later this year.
Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Camden has worked with refugee resettlement since 1975. More information about this and other programs offered by the Refugee and Immigration Services Department of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Camden, can be obtained by contacting Kaitlyn Muller at kaitlyn.muller@camdendiocese.org.