In this episode of The Phoenix Pod, host Jovica Djurdjevic sits down with Max Rykov from the Nashville International Center for Empowerment (NICE)—the largest refugee resettlement agency in Tennessee. NICE has been at the forefront of supporting refugees and immigrants, providing critical services like housing, employment assistance, youth programs, and pathways to citizenship.
Max shares his personal story as a refugee from Uzbekistan, his family’s journey to the U.S., and the challenges of adapting to a new life. He also dives into the impactful work NICE is doing, from resettling nearly 50,000 individuals to running programs that promote self-advocacy and trauma-informed care for refugee youth. The conversation highlights the struggles many refugees face, the resilience they show, and the vital role of community in creating a sense of belonging.
Jovica and Max discuss the importance of mentorship, shared cultural connections, and what it means to truly support the next generation. They also reflect on the shared experiences of growing up as children of refugees and the sacrifices their families made to provide better futures.
Whether you’re interested in immigrant stories, community impact, or how to get involved in supporting refugees in your own area, this episode is packed with heartfelt insights and actionable takeaways.
The Phoenix Club of Nashville is a 100% volunteer-led 501(c)(3) organization with a mission to benefit underserved youth in Middle Tennessee while developing its members into community and business leaders.
Website: phoenixclubofnashville.org
LinkedIn: Phoenix Club of Nashville
Instagram: @phoenixclub_nashville
Learn more about NICE: empowernashville.org
Instagram: @nicenashville
