Deko Farah
Settlement Navigator
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About
Culturally competent settlement professional with hands-on experience conducting needs assessments, supporting newcomers and families through service access, and maintaining accurate client records in Halifax. Skilled at welcoming clients, gathering and verifying information, managing appointments, and referring people to the right programs, with a strong commitment to confidentiality, patience, and clear communication. Fluent in Somali and professionally proficient in English.
Experience
Settlement Navigator - YMCA Immigrant Services - Halifax, NS
(2025-12)
- Conduct comprehensive individual needs assessments with newcomers and refugees and deliver community orientation.
- Collaborate with individuals and families to create customized short- and long-term settlement plans.
- Coordinate rapid access to temporary housing, winter clothing, transportation, and childcare for incoming families.
- Provide clear resource mapping so clients can access healthcare, education, and social services at all levels of government.
- Give direct administrative help with complex paperwork, accompany clients to appointments, and coach them to build self-advocacy skills.
Program Navigator – Settlement & Support Services - Metro Work - Halifax, NS
(2022-07 - 2025-03)
- Supported newcomer women in accessing social services, childcare options, financial aid resources, and language training.
- Maintained accurate client records, appointment schedules, and service logs using digital and paper-based systems.
- Interpreted for non-English-speaking clients and helped them navigate community resources.
- Maintained client confidentiality, dignity, and cultural respect while providing consistent, patient support.
- Collaborated with multiple stakeholders to ensure seamless client transitions to community services.
- Managed daily program support tasks independently and consistently achieved positive outcomes.
Home Support Worker - Bayshore - Halifax, NS
(2020-07 - 2021-09)
- Delivered personalized support in client homes, building strong interpersonal and active listening skills with diverse individuals.
- Managed daily scheduling, task prioritization, and routine reporting independently without on-site supervision.
Shop Associate - Supermarket - Mogadishu, Somalia
(2013-02 - 2014-03)
Server / Kitchen Helper - Hawla Restaurant - Mogadishu, Somalia
(2012-01 - 2013-01)
Education
Pre-University Prep - St. Lawrence University, Uganda (2016)
High School Diploma - Mogadishu, Somalia (2013)
