Madina is an ESL (English as a Second Language) Instructor for the JFS Refugee Integration & Support Effort (RISE) program. Madina helps our non-native English speaking clients to improve their reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills.
Why JFS?
“I believe in the importance of community-based support and helping people successfully navigate life transitions. JFS’s mission and values align closely with my background and my desire to support individuals and families in a meaningful, practical way.”
What are your hobbies?
“I enjoy singing and music. I studied vocal performance during my school and university years and continue to sing as a creative outlet.”
Faiza is a Case Manager for the JFS Refugee Integration & Support Effort (RISE) program. Faiza holds a Bachelor degree in Public Policy and Women & Gender Studies from the University of Delaware.
During her time at the University of Delaware, Faiza served as a Sexual Health and Relationship Educator (SHARE) and a Support of Survivors (SOS) advocate, roles focused on promoting healthy relationship skills, consent education, and trauma-informed support. Faiza facilitated workshops, engaged peers in conversations about sexual wellness and interpersonal respect, and provided compassionate, confidential support to individuals impacted by sexual misconduct. Through this work, she helped foster a safer, more informed, and more supportive campus community.
Why JFS?
“I genuinely enjoy helping people in need and supporting them as they work to stabilize their lives. Being able to offer guidance, compassion, and practical support during challenging times is meaningful to me.”
What are your hobbies?
“Reading and swimming.”
Liliia is a Case Manager for the JFS Refugee Integration & Support Effort (RISE) program. Liliia graduated from the University of Turku University with a degree in Applied Sciences/Business Administration.
Prior to becoming a Case Manager at JFS, Liliia worked as a Sales Representative at Hertrich Nissan of Newark. Her time there strengthened her communication skills, taught her how to support people through big decisions, and helped her develop a client-centered approach that she now brings into her work at JFS.
Outside of her professional role, Liliia is a dedicated volunteer with UNWLA. She organizes community gatherings, fundraisers, and charity runs to support humanitarian initiatives for Ukraine—work that is deeply meaningful to her.
Why JFS?
“I wanted to be part of an organization that truly transforms people’s lives. JFS’s mission of supporting individuals and families through challenging transitions aligns deeply with my values. As someone who has gone through my own adjustment to life in the U.S., I understand how important it is to have someone who listens, guides, and genuinely cares. Working at JFS allows me to combine my personal experience with my passion for helping others feel supported, safe, and empowered as they build a new chapter in their lives.”
What are your hobbies?
“My favorite ways to spend my free time are reading books and discussing them with friends in my book club. I also love being outdoors, especially hiking and rock climbing. Organizing community events and supporting local initiatives for Ukraine is another meaningful part of my life.”
What is one fun fact about you?
“I once climbed a mountain with kids in tow, all the way to Everest Base Camp.”
Sonia is a Program Manager for the JFS Refugee Integration & Support Effort (RISE) program. Sonia graduated from Delaware State University with degrees in French and Political Science.
Sonia brings 19 years of case management experience to JFS, providing information dissemination and referral, intake and screening, needs assessment, and consensus development of family service plans.
Sonia has been married for 11 years and is a proud mother of five children – two sons and three daughters. Supporting her children’s growth and success is one of her proudest and greatest joys.
Why JFS?
“Originally from Haiti, I earned my degree from Delaware State University. As an immigrant myself, I love helping those that are in need and at JFS it makes me feel at home by working to help shape those that are in need, especially immigrants and refugees. I am very compassionate in my work and understand cultural differences. My personal journey has shaped my deep compassion for the people I serve and a commitment to creating meaningful, lasting change.”
What is one fun fact about you?
“I love working with languages. I am fluent in French and Haitian Creole, and have experience translating official documents.”
Nik is an ESL instructor and Ukrainian Case Manager at JFS Delaware, where he supports Ukrainian refugees and migrants in developing practical skills for everyday life. Originally from Ukraine, he holds a degree in International Economics from an EU university and is TEFL/TESOL certified. Before joining JFS, Nikitas ran multi-state operations for Chocolate Moonshine Co. at stores and events across the U.S., and later worked in corporate sales. His teaching blends personal experience, business acumen, and a deep commitment to helping others integrate, grow, and thrive.
His hobbies include go-karting, paddle (a racket sport, a variant of tennis), and car tuning. One fun fact about Nik is that he has lived in four countries, been to 23, but somehow still manages to burn eggs if he looks away for 30 seconds.
“I used to be a client, back in 2022,” says Nik. “JFS gave me a chance to do meaningful work—serving refugees and immigrants like myself—while building a real career path in ESL that allows me to help others. I’m not just teaching English; I’m helping people land, adapt, and belong.”
Hulda, or Chem, is a Case Manager for the JFS Refugee Integration Support Effort program. Her hobbies include cooking, traveling, painting, and archery.
Raushaniya Vega is the RISE Program Manager at Jewish Family Services (JFS) Delaware, where she leads programs that support refugees and immigrants as they build new lives in the United States. With over two years of dedicated service at JFS, Raushaniya first joined the agency as a Ukrainian Case Manager before stepping into her current leadership role.
Originally from Kazakhstan, Raushaniya earned her degree from Eurasian National University in Astana. As an immigrant herself, she brings both lived experience and cultural understanding to her work. Her personal journey has shaped her deep compassion for the people she serves and fuels her commitment to creating meaningful, lasting change.
Raushaniya is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Social Work, a path inspired by her work at JFS and her desire to deepen her impact in the community. She is especially passionate about advocacy, trauma-informed care, and helping individuals access the tools they need to thrive.
Known for her empathy, dedication, and hands-on leadership, Raushaniya works tirelessly to ensure that every newcomer feels welcomed, supported, and empowered.
Outside of her professional life, she is a proud mother of two sons. Her older son is pursuing a career in cybersecurity and serves as an assistant coach for a high school swim team, while her younger son is a competitive swimmer. Supporting her children’s growth and success is one of her greatest joys.
Esau is a Case Manager for JFS’ Refugee Integration Support Effort (RISE). He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Management and Master’s degrees in Community Counseling and Educational Leadership. He attended the University of Liberia, Springfield College, and Immaculata University.
Esau is married to Tieyee Chea. They have six children and five grandchildren. In his free time, he enjoys reading and traveling.