Downtown Phoenix hotel helps Afghan and Syrian refugees get a new start on life in America

Arizona hotel hires Afghan, Syrian refugees as they start new lives in the U.S.

So far, the Sheraton in Downtown Phoenix has hired over 40 refugees from Afghanistan and Syria, giving them some much needed help as they rebuild their lives in a new country. FOX 10's Stephanie Olmo reports.

PHOENIX - A hotel in downtown Phoenix has hired more than 40 refugees from Afghanistan and Syria, giving them a place to work as they transition to their new lives in the United States.

Over the past several months, the Sheraton has been hiring refugees, including Maselluah, who arrived in Phoenix in fall 2021. While it has been a challenge adjusting to his new life, he remains grateful for the opportunity he's been given.

On March 18, Maseullah was all smiles as he mingled with new friends in Phoenix and ate traditional Afghan food on Nowruz, the first day of the new year celebrated in parts of the Middle East, including Afghanistan.

"During lunchtime, we come here in the cafeteria and eat food," said Maseullah, who escaped from the Taliban eight months ago, forced to leave his loved ones behind.

"Sometimes, I talk to my mom and my sisters, my father," said Maselluah. "I really miss them."

Despite missing his family, Maselluah is motivated to push forward now more than ever.

"So nervous about how can we meet the people, how can we get jobs and how can we talk to the people. That’s so difficult for us," said Maselluah.

Maselluah is one of the dozens of people hired by the Sheraton recently. Currently, he works as a clerk in the storeroom.

"We get some money, we help my family financially, especially myself because I want to start my education here again," said Maselluah, who plans on studying landscape architecture.

For now, however, Maselluah appreciates his time working at the Sheraton, and all the help he's been receiving.