An Empty Flight and a New Beginning

When Shorena Megrelishvili boarded a nearly empty flight from Munich to the U.S. in August 2020, she had no idea how much her life was about to change. 

“There were 14 passengers,” she recalled. “It was like an apocalypse.” 

Arriving amid a global pandemic, Shorena faced the double challenge of adjusting to a new country and navigating the isolation of lockdown with no roadmap for building a network or finding her footing. Originally from the country of Georgia, she had left behind family, friends, and a thriving career in nonprofit development to join her American husband and to pursue new opportunities.

“We explored where we could settle down, and the United States offered more opportunities for both of us,” she explained. 

But reality hit quickly: Entering the American job market as a newcomer was far from easy.

The Reality of Starting Over

“I felt like a little dot. You’re literally a nobody when you first move,” she said. “If you don’t know how to word your resume or build your application package, there’s a strong chance no one will ever see it.” 

Despite years of professional experience, Shorena found herself sending out applications with no responses, until a friend told her about Upwardly Global (UpGlo).

Finding Support Through Upwardly Global

“It never even occurred to me that there would be an organization with free resources, literally existing to help you find a job,” she said. 

Shorena’s job coach, Patricia Rushton, also an immigrant, helped her see her own value in the American context. Patricia’s support included a video tutorial on customizing resumes, technical tools, and steady encouragement that truly bolstered Shorena’s confidence. 

From Jobseeker to Leader

Within a few months, Shorena received her first job offer in the U.S. That success fueled her desire to give back, leading her to Upwardly Global’s Leadership Council (LC), where she now serves as co-chair in the Washington, D.C., region.

“The LC gave me a platform to offer my skills and experiences in a more formal way for the greater good,” she said. “It was an opportunity to be part of something bigger.”

Shorena sees the Leadership Council as uniquely positioned to make a local impact while advancing national goals. What sets the LC apart, in her view, is the authenticity of its members — individuals who are united by passion and purpose.

“The board exists on the national level, but local councils can take the pulse of their communities,” she explained. “We’re better positioned for advocacy on the [Capitol] Hill, hosting alumni events, and doing grassroots fundraising.”

Looking Forward: Turning Potential Into Impact

Looking ahead, Shorena hopes Upwardly Global continues to scale its work. 

“Through quality jobs, we can create a quality economy. I wish for UpGlo to impact even more lives,” she said

Shorena’s journey from newcomer during a pandemic to Leadership Council member advocating for workforce inclusion embodies the mission of Upwardly Global. As she puts it, “Immigrants bring resilience, skills, and drive. Organizations like UpGlo are helping them turn potential into impact.”

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Upwardly Global’s Leadership Councils (LCs) bring together dedicated professionals who donate their time and expertise to advance our mission. LC members drive fundraising, build awareness, and strengthen employer partnerships in their local communities. Ready to advocate for workforce inclusion alongside passionate, like-minded peers? Join Upwardly Global’s Leadership Council today. Learn more.