In a powerful testament to resilience, justice, and the unwavering support of pro bono attorneys, Rose Thembit of Cameroon has been granted asylum after nearly eight years of uncertainty. Rose fled her home country in 2016 to escape persecution and began her legal journey through the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) clinic, where she was first connected with pro bono counsel through Chicago Volunteer Legal Services (CVLS).
Attorney Mahdis Azimi has been by Rose’s side from the very beginning, dedicating countless hours over the years to navigate the complex and often grueling asylum process. In 2024, attorney Sara Zavernik joined the effort, bringing fresh perspective and energy to the final stretch of the case. Together, Mahdis and Sara formed a strong legal team that saw the case through to its successful conclusion earlier this year.
With asylum now granted, Rose is beginning a new chapter of hope and healing. She is currently working to reunite with her children, who remain abroad, by petitioning for them with the continued help of her pro bono attorneys. What was once a distant dream is now becoming a reality—one step at a time.
Rose’s story is a testament not only to her courage, but to the deep impact of dedicated volunteer attorneys who walk with their clients through some of the most difficult times in their lives. CVLS is honored to support clients like Rose and grateful to advocates like Mahdis and Sara, whose passion for justice transforms lives.
