Yahya al sarfi, Refugee Social Services Case Manager
Yahya Al Sarfi arrived in the U.S. from Yemen in 2017. He now supports refugee communities across southeastern Michigan, helping individuals build the skills needed to pursue new economic opportunities in United States. With a broad background in education, business, and community engagement, he brings a wealth of experience in public service, employment services, and cross-cultural communication.
Since joining the International Institute of Metropolitan Detroit in 2024, Yahya has played a key role in assisting refugees with self-sufficiency and employability plans, ensuring they receive the resources and support needed for economic mobility. His expertise in bilingual communication, program coordination, and client advocacy allows him to provide culturally competent services.
Before serving as the RSS Case Manager, Yahya gained extensive experience in both education and executive leadership, both overseas and in the U.S. As Director of the English Department at Sanaa Community College, he supervised and trained faculty, developed curricula and lesson plans, and supported students in building essential language and professional skills. He also served as a university lecturer, teaching subjects such as human resources management, entrepreneurship, public relations, and operations management.
In addition to his academic and professional background, Yahya has worked in various industries, including logistics, tax preparation, and social services. His diverse experience reflects his adaptability and commitment to service.
Yahya holds a Master of Business Administration and a bachelor’s degree in English. Fluent in both Arabic and English, he is deeply committed to helping individuals overcome barriers to achieve their career and academic goals.