CIPD Trust attends the Refugee Employment Network jobs fair

The CIPD Trust was proud to take part in a landmark refugee jobs fair in February, hosted by the Refugee Employment Network (REN) in partnership with The Royal Household at St James's Palace.

The event brought together over 500 highly qualified refugee professionals from 36 countries, including Ukraine, Afghanistan, Hong Kong, Syria, Yemen, Congo, Eritrea and Iran, alongside leading UK employers.

With organisations such as Aon, EY, PwC, HSBC and NHS England in attendance, the event created a space to connect employers with a sometimes-overlooked but highly skilled talent pool.

Supporting refugee professionals into HR careers

At the event, the CIPD Trust provided tailored, sector-specific guidance to individuals looking to build or rebuild careers in HR in the UK. This included advice on re-qualification routes, understanding UK workplace expectations, and rebuilding professional networks.

At a time when many sectors face critical skills shortages, initiatives like this highlight the opportunity to connect employers with experienced, motivated individuals who are eager to contribute. Refugees rebuilding their lives are driven by the same aspirations shared by many: to support their families, feel secure, and play an active role in their communities. Securing sustainable employment is central to achieving this.

A memorable moment for Rebuilding Futures mentee

Among those attending was Rebuilding Futures mentee Lutfulhaq Noor Paserly, who has been working with the CIPD Trust through its mentoring programme delivered in partnership with Breaking Barriers.

Lutfulhaq’s journey reflects the purpose of the programme: supporting refugee professionals to navigate the UK labour market, rebuild confidence, and translate their experience into new opportunities.

During the event, he had the opportunity to meet King Charles.

Meeting King Charles was a deeply memorable and humbling experience. We briefly discussed the importance of creating pathways for refugees to contribute meaningfully to society through employment.”

Reflecting on the wider importance of the event, Lutfulhaq highlighted the role employers and HR professionals can play:

Employment fairs create a direct bridge between talented individuals and employers willing to look beyond conventional recruitment channels… it is a chance to access a diverse, resilient, and highly motivated talent pool that is often overlooked.”

Unlocking potential through partnership

Lutfulhaq joined the CIPD Trust’s Rebuilding Futures programme to better understand UK workplace culture and expectations, and to gain insight from experienced HR professionals.

“Through mentoring, workshops, and events, I have been able to translate my previous experience into the UK context and build meaningful professional connections.”

His experience underlines the importance of targeted support in unlocking potential and enabling individuals to thrive.

Looking ahead

The CIPD Trust’s participation in this event reflects its ongoing commitment to breaking down barriers to employment and supporting inclusive access to work. By working in partnership with organisations like the REN and Breaking Barriers, the Trust continues to help create pathways into meaningful work for those who need it most.

Find out more about how you can mentor a refugee to succeed in work.

Thank you Bethan and Kalpana for taking part in this event.

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