Arrey Obenson

The Festival of Nations, which represents over 30 countries, features music, food, art, and dance, and aims to highlight the multicultural fabric of the city. Arrey Obenson, President and CEO of the International Institute of St. Louis, discusses the festival's history, its growth, and its aim to make St. Louis a welcoming and multicultural city. Additional discussion centers around the integration and support of immigrants and refugees in the community, emphasizing the need for patience and understanding with non-English speakers. Obenson calls for community involvement through donations, volunteerism, and support for new arrivals to help them transition and thrive in St. Louis.

Mark your calendar for August 26–27, 2023 at Tower Grove Park in St. Louis, Missouri for a celebration of music, flavors, art, and culture from around the world at the annual Festival of Nations. Arrey Obenson, President and CEO of the International Institute of St. Louis (IISTL) discusses the Festival of Nations and how the IISTL has played a prominent role in assisting refugees and immigrants in the St. Louis metropolitan area. This is Season 6! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com #fe...

For over 100 years the International Institute of St. Louis has been helping immigrants and refugees. President and CEO Arrey Obenson sat down again with Saint Louis In Tune to give us an update on the status of Afghan Immigrants and what changes have taken place. How can you help? Find out more at the links provided below. [01:00] Background [07:09] Collaborative Effort for New Arrivals Housing Food Language Health [12:35] Setting up the Afghan Immigrants for Success E...

The International Institute of St. Louis (IISTL) serves as the St. Louis community’s immigrant service and information hub. They connect new arrivals with essential economic and cultural integration services, including English classes, employment, orientation, and citizenship preparation. The International Institute hosts events and makes presentations to build inclusive and mutually respectful relationships between foreign-born newcomers and all community members. President and CEO, Arrey Obens...