EPPY B. NDUHE KYANYA
Alexandria,USA
Summary
Obtain an Operations Support Specialist position with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), Fairfax Field Office, that would enable me to use my 17 years of professional experience working with Refugees, Asylees and other noncitizens in nonprofit organizations and government – 10 years providing direct services at refugee resettlement agencies, 5 years as social and employment services provider to refugees, asylees and other noncitizens; and 2 years working as an Asylum Officer(AO)/Citizenship Immigrations Services Assistant (CISA, as Legal Administrative Specialist (LAS) with the USCIS, Refugee, Asylum and International Affairs (RAIO) in the Arlington Asylum Field Office and currently as an Immigration Service Assistant (AO) in the Field Operations Directorate Washington Field Office (WAS).
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Immigration Services Officer
Department of Homeland Security, U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services
- Conduct adjustment of status interviews for applicants and petitioners to elicit statements, assess credibility, and analyze information to identify facts that form the basis for decision concerning eligibility for immigration benefits.
- Review and adjudicate pending adjustment of status.
- Issue request for adjustment of status case because the applicant did not provide sufficient evidence to determine their eligibility for the benefit.
- Use electronic systems to provide verification of any number of established data points to make adjudicative decisions, determine appropriate level of adjudicative review, and update databases with appropriate information and decisions.
- Respond to inquiries from applicants with pending cases; and other customers inquiries to the Infopass.
- 40 hours per week, annual salary $93,059 GS11-3
Assistant Operational Support
Citizenship Immigrations Services (CIS)
- Performing a variety of Asylum Operational support clerical work such as preparing, receiving files, reviewing, and verifying documents; maintaining records; locating and compiling information for files; and similar clerical support work within the Asylum Office.
- Perform preliminary review of immigration applications and databases such as Global, EARM, CPMS to identify information relevant to the performance of background and security checks.
- Assist Asylum Officers in the adjudication of benefit applications and removal actions by compiling/interfiling, checking-in applicants and evaluating data.
- Updating data information in immigration systems for processing time-sensitive applications.
- Handling secure files for office processing and conduct files audit and preparing case file records and related documents to be routed to other offices.
- Search for missing files/records and placing loose documents into appropriate case files.
- Coordinate with PMA team to generate interview notices (G-56), print, and mail out.
- Use computer record systems (GLOBAL, EARM, RAIL) to search, create and update cases information.
- Review Credible Fear (CF) and Reasonable Fear (RF) cases documentation to ensure completeness, accuracy, and compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, procedures and complete intake, and APSO inbox and inquiries from the APSO team.
Interim Refugee Services Coordinator
Lutheran Family Services
Greensboro, North Carolina, USA
01.2006
- Supervised 2 refugee case managers, 2 case workers and 6 interpreters.
- Responsible for provision of services for newly resettled refugees.
- Oversaw case file management, reports and client data system reporting.
Immigration Services Assistant
Department of Homeland Security, U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services
Fairfax, VA, USA
12.2024 - Current
- Provide administrative support that include accurate file accountability in agency systems of records such as RAILS, Central Index system (CIS2), maintaining data and information integrity associated with electronic and physical A-files and secure forms management, customer service inquiries, scheduling and reconciling applicant appointments, support for naturalization ceremonies as well as the administration and management of the local mail operations.
- Responding to routine inquiries in RAILS functions, mail room functions, auditing, receiving mail and interfiling, and uploading/scanning clear documents into ELIS
- Support work that directly impacts the following external offices: National Records Center (NRC), Harrisonburg File Facility (HBG), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Department of State National Visa Center (NVC) and Department of Justice (DOJ), Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) as well as State and Local government agencies
- Supports the maintenance accountability of file holdings within a field office. This includes ensuring movements are appropriately recorded and updated from all internal and external work units (FDNS, ISO, clerical support personnel, mailroom, DHS offices, etc.), that files are timely retrieved and circulating in support of pending/continued cases. Ensures A-File content is properly handled, in accordance with local and National Archives Records Administration requirements, that works units are routinely and accurately applying records retention and disposition schedules.
- Collaborates as needed with other work units on resolving file inunattibility errors and discrepancies resulting from system interfaces and/or inaccurate updates of applicant data in of Records and Case Management system.
- 40 hours per week, annual salary $90,059 GS 9-10
Legal Administrative Specialist (LAS)
Department of Homeland Security, U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services, Refugee, Asylum and International Operations (RAIO), Asylum Division
Arlington, VA, USA
04.2022 - 12.2024
- Perform preliminary review of immigration applications and databases such as Global, EARM, CPMS to identify information relevant to the performance of background and security checks.
- Completed Refugee, Asylum and International Operations (RAIO) Foundation training. Conduct face to face or telephonic interviews, NTA’s, Asylum Prescreening (APSO) services.
- Delivery of decisions for adjudicated cases, motions to reopen/reconsider, administrative closures, and withdrawals.
- Providing information to appropriate Asylum Divisions, ICE, EOIR, CBP and the public.
- Interact with applicants, attorneys or representative of record to deliver case decision, ensuring understanding of decision or next steps.
- Performing a variety of Asylum Operational support clerical work such as preparing, receiving files, reviewing, and verifying documents; maintaining records; locating and compiling information for files; and similar clerical support work within the Asylum Office.
- Recognition of an Achieved Excellence Performance Rating in appreciation of superior performance for fiscal year 2023
- 40 hours per week, annual salary $84,950 GS 9-8
Human Service Worker III
Fairfax County Department of Family Services
Alexandria, Virginia, USA
03.2016 - 04.2022
- Provided excellent services to a diverse population of jobseekers (Refugees, Asylums and other Immigrants) that often have multiple barriers to employment, little work experience, or high unemployment stress.
- On a daily basis, interviewed noncitizens to elicit information and assess their competencies, and areas for potential growth/development of individuals seeking specific employment opportunities as newcomers to the U.S.
- Explained employment programs and services to clients and guide them to appropriate resources and information based on their needs.
- Examined and Analyzed noncitizens’ work history, biographical information and review/examine documentation related to their credentials as related to particular employment opportunities.
- Conducted Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA)- a Federal Training program- eligibility screening, enrollment, and case management (150 cases per FY). Used computer software to research background data for applicants’ immigration status and benefits.
- Provided support for job seekers with online applications and employment related tasks.
- Coordinated referrals, job fairs and hiring events with employers and partner programs.
- Met with external partner agencies and organizations in Northern Virginia to share job leads/employer needs, discuss program data, updates, and success stories.
- Participated in CQI team that reviews employer and job seeker feedback for trend analysis, response, and action for three Fairfax Virginia Career Works centers.
- Participated in center recertification application processes.
- Submitted monthly reports (placements, hiring events, others).
- Managed resources and request center supplies.
- Served as the point-person of contact for subjects involve immigrants and Refugees; Reviewed and screened routine applications and petitions for immigrants (Asylums, Refugees, SIVs, and others) benefits.
- Analyzed and evaluated cases to respond to customer inquiries regarding immigration benefits eligibility.
- 40 hours per week, annual salary $64,000
Employment Specialist / Job Developer
Catholic Charities Migration and Refugee Service (MRS)
Arlington, Virginia, USA
01.2013 - 03.2016
- Provided information regarding state sponsored employment programs (Breaking the Barriers Program).
- Evaluated clients (Refugees, Asylees, SIVs) through intake and assessment and developed individual service plans designed for self-sufficiency (case load up to 100).
- Cultivated and maintained relationships with area employers to support regular ongoing placement of clients.
- Assisted participants in job search and submission of applications.
- Placed 6 or more clients per month in jobs appropriate to circumstance and followed-up with clients and employers to ensure retention and career development.
- Provided or assisted in the provision of the monthly pre-employment training.
- Provided referrals and career counseling as needed and coordinated services with other area agencies and training providers.
- Maintained accurate records of all services provided and produced reports in timely manner.
- Developed and strengthened partnership with Fairfax County as Catholic Charities MRS satellite office representative at the Fairfax Skillsource Center-Annandale.
- Coordinated with Fairfax Skillsource Center to organize career development events for foreign trained professionals (2 events with 70 to 100 attendees).
- 40 hours per week, annual salary $43,000
Senior Job Developer
US Committee for Refugees and Immigrants
Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
05.2007 - 09.2012
- Developed job opportunities for Refugees through outreach, relationship building, and networking with the Triangle area employers.
- Provided Matching Grant (MG) orientation assessed and assisted Refugees to develop employment goals and plans (100 to 150 cases per year).
- Assisted MG Refugees clients with resumes, networking, and other tools to improve their opportunity for employment.
- Provided training/workshops for MG clients regarding the American workplace (successful interviewing, workplace communication, compensation, and benefits, etc.).
- Maintained MG client files and completed 120- and 180-day reports as required.
- Requested and tracked MG client benefits and gifts-in-kind and cash donations.
- Maintained MG database and submitted monthly reports to the National Office.
- 40 hours per week, annual salary $40,000
Refugee Case Manager
US Committee for Refugees and Immigrants
Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
01.2007 - 01.2010
- Provided refugees case management services (arranging housing, healthcare, social services, service providers and interpretation) to refugee clients from different countries.
- Examined eligibility and assisted refugees’ clients to refugees cannot access federal or state assistance benefits such as Refugee Cash Assistance & Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Benefits.
- Maintained case files (case load up to 70 cases/FY) and submitted reports as required.
- Provided cross-cultural information and ensured a smooth process of resettlement.
- Assisted refugees/asylums clients to complete and submit family reunification applications (I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition).
- Provided information, guidance, and assistance for immigration inquiries to refugees, asylum, such as applying for permanent resident status (1 year after being admitted to the US in refugee status) I-485 Adjust Status; I-131 Application for Travel Document if needed.
Case Manager
Lutheran Family Services
Greensboro, North Carolina, USA
09.2003 - 07.2007
- Provided refugees case management services to a case load of 80 cases/177 individuals.
- Managed appropriate intake, enrollment and developed case plans.
- Coordinated with agency staff (job developers, ESOL and other staff) and refugee service providers (Department of Social Services, Health Department, Schools) to assure self-sufficiency progress for all clients.
- Maintained case documentation in client data system and reports.
- 40 hours per week, annual salary $32,000
Education
Master of International Policy and Practice - International Development and Migration
The George Washington University, Elliott School of International Affairs
Washington DC05.2018
Bachelor of Arts in Regional Planning and Rural Development - Community Development and Planning
Institute of Rural Development
Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo08.1993
Skills
- Understanding of the US Immigration and National Act to protect Asylum seekers and Refugees, Refugee Resettlement, and other Immigration beneficiaries (applications and petitions for immigration benefits)
- Conduct extensive research and analysis on administrative projects to gather and analyze relevant data, develop options, make recommendations, and provide comprehensive reports
- Expertise in intake, screening applications, and examining and analyzing immigration benefits documents received for authenticity
- Analyze and evaluate effectiveness of complex and substantive management support and administrative systems, programs, and processes
- Identify and make determinations on non-sensitive, routine immigration matters related to the Immigration and Nationality Act, or representing applicants on non-sensitive, routine hearing or appeal requests involving immigration matters, that included determining applicant credibility, analyzing evidence, and applying statutory requirements, regulations, judicial and administrative precedents
- Preparing preliminary and finished reports and documents and representing the office in dealings with stakeholders and personnel from administrative support organizations
- Providing advice on a variety of administrative and management programs and procedures
- Performing liaison functions with other organizations
- Coordinating a variety of administrative programs (eg, budget, personnel, travel, space, vehicle management, security and logistics)
- Capable to use electronic systems to provide verification, determine appropriate level of adjudicative review (TECS, NCIC, Global, CPMS, EARM, RAILS), and update databases with appropriate information
- Strong case management skills, including complex and highly sensitive refugee and asylum cases
- Ability to handle a heavy caseload and complete written assessments supporting cases
- Strong verbal, written, interpersonal, and critical thinking and analytical skills, as well as a steadfast commitment to administering and upholding laws and regulations
- Ability to establish and maintain liaison with external federal agencies and non-governmental organizations, and/or private sector stakeholders involved in immigration benefits
- Skilled with MS Office (Word, Access, Excel, Power Point, Outlook), MS Project 2013, Case Management Systems, Telework Software (Zoom, MS Teams)
- Security Clearance
- Comfortable working in challenging conditions
- Fluent in French and Swahili (native speaker)
NATIONAL SERVICE EXPERIENCE
- UNCG Americorps Access Project, Greensboro, North Carolina, USA
- Case Worker (Full Time AMERICORPS Member served two terms 2003-2005)
- Assisted case managers serving refugee clients.
- Functioned as interpreter to assist community service providers to meet refugee clients’ needs.
OVERSEAS WORK EXPERIENCE
- APIBA (Association pour la Promotion d’Ibada), Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo,1996-1998
- Assistant Coordinator
- Conducted feasibility and field studies for regional planning projects in Ibada.
- Devised solutions to identified challenges and ensured project follow-up and evaluation.
- International Caritas, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo, 1994-1996
- Manager and Controller
- Supervised a 4-member management team in the relief program for Rwandan refugees in eastern Congo.
- GAAP Withius Voluntariat (Group to Assist and Promote Sufficiency), Gitarama, Rwanda, 1994
- Program Supervisor
- Supervised a 6-member team for field activities and coordinated consultation efforts.
- Composed activity and progress reports as well as follow-up evaluations.
- Executed the area self-sufficiency plan on behalf of Withius Voluntariat.
Timeline
Immigration Services Assistant
Department of Homeland Security, U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services
12.2024 - Current
Legal Administrative Specialist (LAS)
Department of Homeland Security, U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services, Refugee, Asylum and International Operations (RAIO), Asylum Division
04.2022 - 12.2024
Human Service Worker III
Fairfax County Department of Family Services
03.2016 - 04.2022
Employment Specialist / Job Developer
Catholic Charities Migration and Refugee Service (MRS)
01.2013 - 03.2016
Senior Job Developer
US Committee for Refugees and Immigrants
05.2007 - 09.2012
Refugee Case Manager
US Committee for Refugees and Immigrants
01.2007 - 01.2010
Interim Refugee Services Coordinator
Lutheran Family Services
01.2006
Case Manager
Lutheran Family Services
09.2003 - 07.2007
Immigration Services Officer
Department of Homeland Security, U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services
Assistant Operational Support
Citizenship Immigrations Services (CIS)
Bachelor of Arts in Regional Planning and Rural Development - Community Development and Planning
Institute of Rural Development
Master of International Policy and Practice - International Development and Migration
The George Washington University, Elliott School of International Affairs