Rabia Ceylan at FIX EMEA Trading Conference

In this engaging episode of FinTech Focus TV, hosted live at the Fix EMA Trading Conference in London, Rabia, a Program Manager at Talent Beyond Boundaries (TBB), shared her insights into how this groundbreaking organisation is revolutionising global talent acquisition. TBB connects skilled refugees and displaced individuals with employers in countries experiencing workforce shortages, offering a dual benefit to both the individuals and the companies involved. The conversation is a compelling reminder of how innovative solutions can address pressing societal challenges while also delivering tangible value to businesses.

An Introduction to Talent Beyond Boundaries

Talent Beyond Boundaries operates with a unique and inspiring mission: to provide refugees and displaced individuals with opportunities to rebuild their lives through meaningful employment. The organisation not only helps individuals find jobs but also addresses acute talent shortages in countries like the UK, Australia, and Canada. With ambitious plans to expand into 27 destination countries by 2027, TBB exemplifies the potential for innovative approaches to tackle global challenges.

Rabia began by explaining the concept behind TBB’s work. Traditional humanitarian pathways for refugees are often overloaded, leaving many talented individuals without viable options for resettlement. TBB introduces a complementary pathway: skilled migration. By connecting refugees with employers who need their skills, the organisation creates a win-win situation. Displaced individuals find stability and purpose, while employers address skill shortages in critical industries such as technology, healthcare, and financial services.

The UK’s Talent Shortages and the Role of Refugees

Rabia highlighted the pressing talent shortages currently affecting the UK across various sectors. This issue is particularly pronounced in technology and FinTech, where businesses are struggling to find the expertise needed to drive growth and innovation. While many organisations focus on traditional hiring pools, TBB draws attention to an often-overlooked source of talent: refugees.

The UK is not alone in facing these challenges. Countries worldwide are experiencing skill shortages, particularly in industries requiring specialised expertise. TBB’s skilled migration pathway offers a practical solution, enabling organisations to access a highly motivated and capable workforce while also contributing to global social responsibility goals.

Inspiring Stories: The Transformative Impact of TBB

One of the most powerful aspects of TBB’s work is the individual stories of those who have benefited from their programmes. During the episode, Rabia shared the story of “K,” a refugee who has found a new lease on life through TBB’s initiatives. K’s journey is a testament to the life-changing potential of skilled migration pathways.

K’s success extends beyond his personal achievements. He views his role not just as a job but as a mission to represent and support other refugees. Rabia described K’s dedication to his work and his commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. This sense of responsibility and purpose is a common thread among TBB’s candidates, making them exceptional contributors to their organisations.

For employers, hiring through TBB offers more than just a solution to workforce shortages. It provides an opportunity to bring individuals like K into their teams—people who are deeply committed, highly skilled, and driven by a sense of purpose. This level of motivation and dedication is rare and invaluable in today’s competitive job market.

Bridging the Gap Between Employers and Refugees

Rabia explained the practical steps involved in connecting refugees with employers. TBB maintains a talent catalogue, a database where refugees and displaced individuals can register their skills, qualifications, and employment preferences. This resource allows TBB to match candidates with suitable opportunities based on employers’ needs.

TBB’s teams work on both the “source side” and the “destination side.” The source side includes teams based in regions such as Lebanon, Jordan, and Latin America, who engage directly with candidates to verify their qualifications and ensure they meet programme eligibility requirements. These teams also conduct visa eligibility checks to minimise risks for employers.

On the destination side, TBB collaborates with employers to understand their workforce needs and facilitate the hiring process. This dual approach ensures that the right candidates are matched with the right opportunities, creating a seamless experience for both parties.

Addressing Employer Concerns and Building Confidence

For many employers, hiring international candidates can seem daunting. Rabia acknowledged these concerns but emphasised that TBB provides comprehensive support to make the process as smooth as possible. From visa applications to onboarding, TBB guides employers every step of the way.

Rabia also highlighted the experiences of organisations like Iris and Deloitte, which have become repeat partners of TBB. These companies have found the process to be not only manageable but also highly rewarding. By tapping into TBB’s talent pool, they have gained access to skilled professionals who bring unique perspectives and a strong work ethic to their teams.

Rabia noted that once employers engage with TBB, they often become “addicted” to the programme. The quality of candidates and the positive outcomes for both employers and employees create a compelling case for continued collaboration.

Diverse Opportunities: TBB’s Reach and Impact

One of TBB’s strengths is its ability to cater to a wide range of industries and roles. Rabia explained that the organisation focuses on matching candidates with roles in high-demand sectors such as healthcare, technology, and engineering. For example, TBB has successfully placed over 250 nurses in the UK’s healthcare system, addressing critical shortages in this vital sector.

In the technology and FinTech industries, TBB candidates bring valuable skills in areas like software engineering, data analysis, and financial services. These are transferable skills that enable individuals to adapt to new industries and contribute effectively to their organisations.

While most placements are at the junior to mid-level, TBB’s candidates often exceed expectations due to their strong motivation and willingness to learn. Rabia emphasised that these individuals are not just looking for jobs; they are seeking opportunities to rebuild their lives and make meaningful contributions to their communities.

The Ripple Effect: Inspiring Change Through Employment

One of the unexpected but significant outcomes of TBB’s work is the ripple effect it creates within communities. When refugees find stable employment, they often share their experiences with others in their networks, spreading awareness about TBB’s programmes and encouraging more employers to get involved.

This ripple effect extends beyond individual candidates. By showcasing the success stories of refugees who have thrived in their new roles, TBB challenges stereotypes and promotes a more inclusive approach to talent acquisition. This cultural shift is particularly important in industries like FinTech, which are driven by innovation and diversity.

Challenges and Opportunities in Global Talent Acquisition

While TBB’s model is highly effective, Rabia acknowledged that global talent acquisition is not without its challenges. Employers must navigate complex visa processes, adapt to different cultural contexts, and invest in onboarding and support for international hires. However, she emphasised that these challenges are outweighed by the benefits of accessing a motivated and skilled workforce.

TBB’s support system is designed to address these challenges head-on. By providing guidance and resources, the organisation ensures that employers can confidently navigate the process. This level of support makes TBB’s programmes accessible to organisations of all sizes, from multinational corporations to small family-owned businesses.

The Role of FinTech in Driving Change

The FinTech industry is uniquely positioned to benefit from TBB’s initiatives. As a sector that thrives on innovation and adaptability, FinTech is well-suited to embrace the diverse perspectives and skills that TBB candidates bring to the table. By partnering with TBB, FinTech companies can not only address their immediate talent needs but also contribute to a more inclusive and equitable global economy.

Rabia highlighted the alignment between TBB’s mission and the values of many FinTech organisations. Diversity, inclusion, and corporate social responsibility are often key priorities for FinTech companies, making TBB an ideal partner for those looking to make a positive impact while also gaining a competitive edge in the talent market.

Expanding the Vision: TBB’s Future Plans

Looking ahead, Talent Beyond Boundaries is focused on expanding its reach and impact. Rabia shared the organisation’s ambitious goal of operating in 27 destination countries by 2027. This growth will create new opportunities for both candidates and employers, further solidifying TBB’s role as a leader in global talent solutions.

For employers, this expansion represents an exciting opportunity to access an even broader talent pool. As TBB continues to develop its programmes, organisations in industries like FinTech have the chance to position themselves at the forefront of this movement, benefiting from the innovative and diverse perspectives that TBB candidates bring.

How to Get Involved with Talent Beyond Boundaries

Rabia concluded the episode by encouraging businesses to explore how they can partner with Talent Beyond Boundaries. She emphasised the importance of taking action, noting that employers can make a significant difference in the lives of displaced individuals while also addressing their own workforce challenges.

To get involved, businesses can visit TBB’s website, connect with the organisation on LinkedIn, or reach out directly at events like the Fix EMA Trading Conference. TBB’s approachable and supportive team is ready to assist employers in navigating the process and unlocking the potential of this unique talent pool.

Conclusion: Building a Better Future Together

This episode of FinTech Focus TV underscores the transformative potential of initiatives like Talent Beyond Boundaries. By addressing global talent shortages through skilled migration pathways, TBB is creating opportunities for displaced individuals while also helping industries like FinTech thrive in an increasingly competitive market.

For businesses, this conversation is a call to action to think differently about talent acquisition. By partnering with TBB, organisations can gain access to a motivated and capable workforce, enhance their diversity and inclusion efforts, and make a meaningful contribution to global social responsibility.

As the FinTech industry continues to evolve, the insights shared by Rabia serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity. By embracing these values, businesses can not only overcome their immediate challenges but also play a role in building a brighter, more equitable future for all.