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A laptop screen shows an online presentation with a table that explains the differences between service cards, debit cards and credit cards. At the top of the screen you can see a speaker speaking via video calling software, with a headset and a friendly facial expression. In the lower right area you can see other participants in the online meeting who are listening attentively. The ' ArrivalAid ' logo can be seen at the bottom left.
Maren Kleinschroth sits on a wooden bench on a roof terrace and laughs. She has blonde hair and is wearing a black sweater. Behind her you can see a sunset and a chain of lights hangs above her. In the right corner of the image there is a logo with the text "TEAM ArrivalAid ". At the bottom left of the picture is the name "Muna" and the hashtag "#wirsind arrivalaid " on an orange background. The picture appears friendly and positive.
Muna Osman sits on dark gray stone steps. She has long brown curly hair. She is wearing a black sweater and smiling at the camera. In the upper right corner of the image there is a logo with the text "TEAM ArrivalAid ". At the bottom left of the picture is the name "Muna" and the hashtag "#wirsind arrivalaid " on an orange background. The picture appears friendly and positive.
The picture shows a group of people in a bright room. Some people stand and sit and talk. while others sit and listen. Large windows can be seen in the background. At the bottom of the picture there is a text that invites you to a “Get Together for Volunteers”. The meeting will take place on November 14th, 2023 at 6 p.m. in the ArrivalAid office at Ringseisstrasse 11a in Munich. It is a meeting aimed at bringing together volunteers.

October 18, 2024

Success Story #9 – Jane

In this format, we give different people who we have been able to accompany at ArrivalAid over the years the space to tell their stories. We try to convey what is being told as authentically as possible and to give people a voice.

Jane is originally from Uganda and came to Germany two and a half years ago. She is currently attending a German integration course begin training as a hotel manager She is a very cheerful person and enjoys spending her free time with her friends, listening to music, singing, dancing and going for walks.

She tells us about her experiences looking for training and work in Germany and shares with us how the ArrivalAid program helped her.  

Search for training  

She found the path to her dream training through intensive search, experience and learning: After completing her B1 course, she went to the job center and was referred to ArrivalAid . They discussed the various options with their advisor. This is how Jane came across the opportunity to complete an apprenticeship in hotel management. So together they applied for various training courses, contacted numerous hotels and sent many CVs and application letters.   

She says that the Jobs&Careers program helped her get career She attended several job fairs and ArrivalAid and the job center helped her a lot in finding her path for the future. She emphasizes: “It is often difficult for foreigners to start a career without help, especially if their language skills are not yet perfect.”

Eventually she found training that met her expectations. She will start the training in August after receiving her B2 language certificate.   

Jane tells us that you can do anything during your hotel training: housekeeping, room service, reception, etc. At the end you can decide where you want to work. She says: “I would ideally like to work in reception after my training.”  

She knows customer service well: she loves working with people. She is a fashion designer by profession, but she has not yet had her certificates recognized. Since she is not sure whether she can work in her job in Germany, she decided to work in a hotel. 

 

Future goals 

Jane has clear plans and goals for the coming years: When she has completed her training, she would like to build and strengthen her career in Germany. It is very important to her to have a good career and good opportunities. She also wants to work and have children.  

 

Challenge when arriving  

Although Jane now has a clear picture of her future, getting there was initially difficult. Arriving in Germany was indeed a challenge. First there was the language. She didn't speak German and it was difficult to express . Now it's easier because she has learned German. Second: the weather. In Africa there is no snow or winter, only rainy and dry seasons. At the moment she is still having a hard time getting used to winter. It was also very challenging to receive so many letters and mail.

In the beginning it was also a big challenge to get to know people. The cultures in Africa and Germany are of course different. But Jane's tip is: you have to do different things. For example: go swimming, join fitness clubs, and if you have the same hobbies, you can meet a lot of people.

She has gotten used to the situation today. Thanks to her volunteer work, she has spoken more German and can now carry on simple small talk . She also got used to the people, the habits and the food.

 

Jane would like to pass this on to the readers of ArrivalNews:  

“It is very important for foreigners to be patient and kind to themselves. You have to work hard and love the language. You can't learn the language if you don't have love for it. You also have to be interested in the culture and the people. When you are in another country, you have to show interest in the culture and people, then everything will be fine. 

Also, you have to stick with it . In the end everything will be fine, if you do a lot of things and encouragement , then you can do anything.”

 

We wish Jane every success in her future plans and can only be proud of her achievements.  

Listen to the podcast with the interview:
Spotify, Deezer, Amazon Music, Acast

Nourhan wears a purple hat and long brown hair. She smiles slightly at the camera. In the background you can see a frozen river and various bushes.

September 27, 2024

Success Story #8 – Youssef

In this format, we give different people who we have been able to accompany at ArrivalAid over the years the space to tell their stories. We try to convey what is being told as authentically as possible and to give people a voice.

Youssef is 27 years old and has been in Germany for almost 2 years . After his arrival in Germany, he federal voluntary service (BFD) for one and a half years and began his training as a nursing specialist . ArrivalAid Jobs & Careers program since October 2022 . This week he told us about his life before and after the war in Ukraine and how he found new perspective in Germany.

A dream and its challenges

Youssef, 27 years old, was born in Morocco and had the dream of studying pharmacy and helping others from an early age. After graduating from high school, he moved to Ukraine to make his dream come true. He studied Russian for a year and then began his five-year pharmacy course in Harki, a town just 40 kilometers from the Russian border. But his studies and his dream were abruptly interrupted by the war in Ukraine.

Youssef remembers how, after the war broke out, he had to flee with nothing more than a backpack. He spent three days in a hotel in Bulgaria and was faced with the difficult decision: Should he return to Morocco or look for a new future in Germany? “It was an easy decision,” says Youssef. “I knew I had to go to Germany. Why shouldn’t I try to start a new life in Germany?” he asked himself. 

Arrival in Germany and the path to integration

When Youssef arrived in Germany, he quickly found a new home in Munich. He immediately fell in love with the city, especially because of its nature, mountains and lakes. But the road to integration was rocky. With no language skills, no professional experience and an incomplete CV, he knew he needed support. Youssef joined our Jobs & Careers program in October 2022. There he met his mentor Michael, who helped him in many ways, not only in finding a BFD position and a training position, but also in integrating into Germany.

While he was learning German, Youssef worked as a federal volunteer (BFD) in a hospital. The 1.5 years in the cardiac ward were intensive and educational. “I worked from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., then I learned German for three hours,” says Youssef. Despite the long days, he found fulfillment in his work. “I have a talent for dealing with people. A smile from them makes me feel like all the effort is worth it.”

New goals and hope for the future

With a B2 certificate in his pocket and the support of his mentor Michael, Youssef began looking for an apprenticeship. At the beginning of September 2024, he began his training as a nursing specialist, a further step towards a secure future in Germany. When asked what he wants for the future, Youssef answers: “I hope to be able to stay in Germany after my training. What I appreciate about Germany is that there is always an opportunity.”

 

Youssef has overcome many challenges in recent years, but he knows his journey is not yet over. With the firm belief that time passes quickly, he wants to use every opportunity to achieve his goals. “I am grateful for everything I have learned and proud of what I have achieved so far. But I won’t be able to say for 30 or 40 years whether I can be truly proud of my life.”

July 31, 2024

ArrivalPodcast: What is it like to be an intern at ArrivalAid ? 

In this episode, Maina and Jeanne introduce themselves and share their experiences as interns. 💼✨

Jeanne

Hello everyone, we are Maina and Jeanne, interns at ArrivalAid and we thought that maybe we could tell you a bit about what it's like to be an intern at ArrivalAid . Maina would you like to introduce yourself

Maina
 Yes, very much. So I'm Maina Grondin, 19 years old, I've been an intern at ArrivalAid for 2 months now. I am French, grew up here in Germany, in Munich. Now it's your turn.

Jeanne
 Yes, thank you.

 So I'm Jeanne and I'm 21 years old. I also grew up in Germany with French parents. But near Cologne. We met during our studies in Lyon, France, where we were studying project management. We are now entering the third year of our bachelor's degree, so to speak. Now I'm here in Munich for my internship, which I copied a bit from you. You found it first... How did you come across the internship?

 Maina
 Actually by chance. I really wanted to do an internship in an NGO, and I searched around a bit, the NGOs that are here in Munich and came across ArrivalAid . And yes, fortunately, because I'm here now and it's a lot of fun. Then I told you a little more about it and I think you really liked it too, right?

Jeanne
 Yes, exactly, I think what I liked was just the whole topic, i.e. escape and migration are interesting to me, I would perhaps like to specialize in that in the future and also for my bachelor's thesis.

 That's why I was immediately interested and yes, we learned a lot about NGOs in our studies and are therefore a bit specialized in social and solidarity issues. Yes, I thought it was really nice that you made me do it. How do you find it now? Maina
 So now with the 2 month internship, I can happily say that it was a lot of fun.

 The variety of work was really great; I was also given a lot of tasks that I didn't even think I could do at first. Also the group, i.e. the colleagues: I was always happy to be here and to be able to work. I then have another month, unfortunately you don't, you're slowly approaching the end of your internship. Jeanne
 Yes, unfortunately

 Maina
 But how was it for you?

 Jeanne
 Yes, it was really nice for me too, as you said.

 Sometimes you might not be motivated to go to work or something. But I really didn't have that at all. I was happy to come every day because the atmosphere is just so good. What I also really appreciated is that we were able to determine our own working day, that we were able to regulate a little bit about when we arrived, when we left, what we did and when during the day. So there's just a lot of trust there and I thought that was really nice. How did you roughly organize your daily routine? What was a typical day like for you? Maina
 Well, I think I was always in the office at 9:00 a.m.

 I always started with a coffee. Then check the calendar and see what I still have to do today. I always wrote down my to-do's and then looked at the most important things for the day and started straight away. My tasks were also very diverse, as I said. I did a lot of research, took care of the podcast, and also a lot of social media and general project management. That was a lot of fun. Lunch break with colleagues. And yes, I think I was always finished at 5 or 6 o'clock. Then I went back home and every day was different. So not a typical exact day. As I said, it was very diverse. And with you ? Jeanne
 Yes, well for me it was pretty much the same, about the same times. We often did similar things or together. But I was more involved in the general ArrivalAid team and you were also a bit more involved with AbilityAid . I just thought it was really good. A lot of tasks, which I may have done a little bit, are writing CVs, writing cover letters, sending out applications. I think I've accompanied 3/4 people in the last 2 months and met them several times. Somehow it's really nice to see things moving forward. Exactly, I also did a bit of translation in the office at Trauma Help: that was also very interesting and I think even some of the employees here don't have that insight. That's why I think it's really good. And how did you get such a good insight into all the programs?

Maina
 That's exactly what I didn't expect, but I was really lucky to get as much as possible from the whole NGO, i.e. from different programs. For example, with the introductions at the beginning, what's nice about the internship is that the different programs are presented to us and so we were able to get a little bit of everything. As I said, I took part in AbilityAid and was able to get the most out of this program. But also because I could see the work of my colleagues. Even a little help could be as much as possible. And yes, exactly, which program did you get the most out of?

Jeanne
 Yes, I think for me it was Jobs&Careers. I don't know if I'm assessing that correctly, but I think that's the program that's the most extensive here. At least in the office here. Since my internship companion is also Magdalena, who coordinates the project at Jobs&Careers, I think I also gained a lot of insight. I enjoyed it a lot too, even more than I thought it would. I didn't think it would be the program that interested me the most. Exactly, but yes, I found that really nice. And what I also found nice was the Akademie dates. What did you think of that?

Maina
 Yes, I thought that was really great because it is a program where a lot is taught by different lecturers and different topics are covered and that is in the form of courses (online). I learned a lot there: things that: I already knew a bit about them, but I never expected that I could have learned so much more. So I really enjoyed that. And you, Jeanne, what did you like most about ArrivalAid ?

Jeanne
 Yes, well I would say: First of all, the atmosphere in the office was great, I felt really comfortable right from the start.

 I think that was also what motivated me: that I knew every day that I could more or less easily do what I wanted today, because I also want to do what my tasks are! But yeah, I don't have to force myself or have any stress and that's why it was just: have fun every day. I liked that and I really enjoyed the contact with clients because it's always nice to be in contact with people. But I actually found that managing social media was a lot of fun. So the podcast or the reel that we did was a lot of fun. What were your favorite tasks? Maina
 I have to agree with you, the thing with social media was really a lot of fun, so with the Reels, posting a lot and also with the podcasts, I thought that was very, very nice that we were completely free to do it . So we could do as much as we wanted. The reel, for example, was really a topic that was close to our hearts and the fact that we were able to do something about it and be creative with it was really fun. What I generally liked about ArrivalAid is that I learned a lot: with communication, for example, on social media and then also in the newsletter, we were also allowed to take part, which is nice because I don't generally write either so much and I don't really dare... I was really out of my comfort zone and learned a lot and also realized that I actually really love it. And about the comfort zone, I somehow learned a lot about that too. So you should just take part and discover something that way. And I thought that was the most beautiful thing here.


Jeanne
 That sounds really nice. This also reminded me of a point I learned. I also think that with “being open”, even if I had the feeling that I was already open... But in two ways: That was simply that you don't put people in boxes, that you just see that everyone is a client, employee or volunteer: Everyone is simply different and has a different story... I found that very interesting. Especially nowadays, people try a lot to put stereotypes on a lot of things and that broke through for me, so I learned to be open. But also a little bit of getting out of my comfort zone: being very social, talking to people you don't know and stuff like that, I don't think you have to do that much before starting your professional life. Have you learned any other things that you would like to share?


Maina

I actually learned a lot and while I was in the AbilityAid program, I had a lot of contact with people with disabilities. It's true that it is/was something that I never really had before (i.e. contact with people with disabilities) and I learned a lot from it. So what types of disabilities there are, how this person actually acts with people, you don't really get to know in everyday life and also a lot of terms that I learned, for example the word that had the most impact on me: “Ableism.” Word that I didn't even know before, even though it's a big word...


Jeanne

Would you like to maybe explain that?

 Maina
 Yes, well it means: it's like racism, if you treat a person racist, it's basically the same with ableism.

 So if you have a discriminatory way of speaking or treating a person simply because they are a person with a disability. Exactly. Jeanne
 Well, I didn't know that before my internship either.

 Maina
 Yes, and I learned a lot: What can you do for this person?

 What is behind all the processes? Level of care? Care certificate? There's a lot that you don't really know if you don't pay attention to the topic. Pretty interesting, and I would like to learn a little more about it. Maybe in the future. Jeanne
 Yes, you even told me that you might want to write your bachelor's thesis on this topic?

 Maina
 Yes, that hasn't been decided yet.

 But I was so interested in the internship that I would really, really like to research a little more about it, so that's definitely a plan for the future. Why not? Jeanne
 And what else would you like to say to the people listening to us?

 Maina
 So currently, through this internship I've noticed that I've become much more open to the world. I learned a lot and that was only thanks to my openness to everything that came to me. saw ArrivalAid 's place So the application directly, I was also very, very open and looked at it and from there a nice internship came out. Quite a few people I met where I was very open and talked to them a bit more and thereby developed an interest in something. I think that's the most important thing for everyone: just be open to accepting every opportunity that comes your way and make the best of it.

Jeanne
 That's so beautiful.

 Maina
 For you, how are things looking, what would you like to give?

 Jeanne
 Yes, I can sign what you said, I see it that way too. So I just want to add that I just generally think it's so important to just be kind, just have a good heart, have compassion, have respect, be it for others, for example to clients, but also in some way yourself, being nice to your colleagues...

Somehow I noticed, I thought, I felt very comfortable here, I think because these terms were in the room the whole time: Simply that you are nice, that you understand each other and I think most people are like that then society would be a little better. Just think about it a bit: “How is someone else doing? How can I help ? How can I be even more respectful?” I would also really recommend continuing to educate yourself. It was only through my internship that I understood many points regarding escape and migration and that's why: educate yourself and perhaps educate yourself. I definitely think that’s very important.  

And otherwise I could simply advise everyone to do an internship at ArrivalAid or do volunteer work or apply for a vacant position. Or, if you need help, just let us know about the program.  

I really enjoyed talking to you.

 A bit of a retroactive effect, looking at what we liked so much... Yes, that was the last podcast episode for me. But I hope that the next interns have just as much fun and if you also want to continue our podcast or maybe you do something more in your last month, I think we would all be really happy about that. Maina
 Yes, me too.

 Jeanne
 Thanks for listening!

 Together
 , thank you, goodbye!

……………………………….

🎧 You can find the link to the entire episode here:

Spotify: [Link]

Amazon Music: [Link]

Deezer: [Link]

Have fun listening! 🎉

July 22, 2024

ArrivalPodcast #3: Jobs&Careers – Jane

In this three-part podcast series we would like to introduce ArrivalAid 's Jobs & Careers program. For the third episode we invited Jane to tell us more about her experiences looking for training and a job after arriving in Germany and how the program helped her.💼✨

Jeanne

In this episode we welcome Jane, a client in the Jobs&Careers program, a program run by ArrivalAid that supports people with a migration and asylum background in finding a place in the job market. Today Jane tells us more about her experiences at ArrivalAid .  

Hello Jane, thanks for being here.

 Would you like to introduce yourself please? Jane

Hello, my name is Jane.

 I am originally from Uganda. I came to Germany two and a half years ago. And now I live in the beautiful city of Munich. Jeanne

It's a beautiful city, especially when the weather is nice.

 What are you currently doing professionally in Munich? Jane

I am currently unemployed.

 But I'm taking a German course, and after my German course I can start training. Jeanne

Which German course are you currently taking?

Jane  

I'm doing an integration course, and this is now a B2 course.

 Jeanne

And what training would you like to do afterwards?

Jane

I would like to train as a hotel manager.

Jeanne

How did you come to want to do this?

Jane

Good question. After my B1 course, I went to the job center and my supervisor referred me to ArrivalAid . I got a lot of help from my supervisor Magdalena. We applied for various training courses and ultimately found training as a hotel manager. I can start training in August.

Jeanne  

Already in August? Wow, that's great.

Jane

Yes, we applied to many hotels and with the help of ArrivalAid I managed it. They helped me with my resume and cover letters. I found training in a hotel downtown. I can start there after completing my B2 language course. I am very pleased.

Jeanne

Have you worked in a hotel in Uganda?

Jane

No, I haven't worked in hotels, but I have experience in customer service. I love working with people. That's why I chose this training. I'm a fashion designer by profession, but I haven't had my certificates recognized yet. I don't know if I can continue my professional career in Germany, so I decided to work in a hotel.

Jeanne 

What do you do in your job? What are your tasks?

Jane

During the training you have to do everything: housekeeping, room service, reception, etc. At the end you can decide where you want to work. I would ideally like to work in reception after my training.  

Jeanne  

When you're not working, what do you like to do? What do you like to do in your free time?

Jane

I like to go for walks, meet up with friends, listen to music, sing, dance, and so on.

Jeanne

What are your goals or plans for the future? For example in 10 years?

Jane 

When I have completed my training, I would like to build and strengthen my career here in Germany. It is very important for me to have a good career and opportunities. I want to work, have children, etc.

Jeanne

So that means it motivates you to think that in 10 years you'll have a good job and a nice life. How exactly could Jobs&Careers help you?

Jane

Jobs&Careers helped me a lot and encouraged me to have good career and job opportunities. I attended many different job fairs and ArrivalAid and the job center helped me very well to find my path for the future. It is often difficult for foreigners to start a career without help, especially if their language skills are not yet perfect.

Jeanne  

I understand, even for people who grew up in Germany, it is often difficult and you need support from family or friends. The language and rules are different.

Maina 

May I ask what it was like for you to arrive in Germany? Did you adjust well or was it difficult at the beginning?

Jane  

Yes, it was difficult at the beginning. The language was a big problem for me because I didn't know it. It was difficult to express myself. Now it's a little easier because I've learned some German. The weather was also a big difference. I'm from Africa, we don't have snow or winter in Uganda, just rainy and dry seasons. So far I'm finding winter very difficult.

Besides the weather, the other challenges were the many letters you received and the hospital appointments. It's difficult to get help quickly when you're sick. I often got sick because of the weather.

Maina

And what is it like now?

Jane  

I've gotten used to the situation here in Germany. It's better because I can speak a little German and make small talk. This is very important. I'm also used to the people, the habits and the food. I worked as a volunteer and that helped me with my German.

Maina

Was it easy for you to meet people here?

Jane

Of course we have different cultures in Africa and Germany. It's not easy to meet people in Germany, but you have to do different things: go swimming, join fitness clubs, and if you have the same hobbies, you can meet a lot of people.

Jeanne 

Then you have something you can do together and have fun. Do you have anything else you would like to say to motivate others?

Jane

Yes, it is very important for foreigners to be patient and kind to themselves. You have to work hard and love the language. You can't learn the language if you don't have love for it. You also have to be interested in the culture and the people. When you are in another country, you have to show interest in the culture and people, then everything will be fine.

Jeanne  

In other words, this is how you manage to feel good and find a job?

Jane

Yes, and you have to stick with it. In the end everything will be fine, if you do a lot of things and have encouragement then you can do anything.

Jeanne 

Thank you, Jane, for sharing your experiences with us.

 

………………………………………….



🎧 You can find the link to the entire episode here:

Spotify: [Link]

Amazon Music: [Link]

Deezer: [ Link]

 

Have fun listening! 🎉















July 15, 2024

ArrivalPodcast #2: Jobs&Careers – Emma

In this three-part podcast series we would like to introduce ArrivalAid 's Jobs & Careers program. For the second episode we invited Emma to tell us more about her experiences as a volunteer at ArrivalAid . 💼✨

Jeanne:

In this episode we welcome Emma, ​​a volunteer in the Jobs&Careers program, a program run by Arrival Aid that supports people with a migration and asylum background in finding a place in the job market.

 Today Emma tells us more about her involvement with Arrival Aid. Jeanne:

Hello Emma, ​​thank you for being here.  


Emma:

Hello, I'm pleased to meet you today  


Jeanne :

We're happy too. Would you like to introduce yourself?  


Emma:

My name is Emma Jung, I'm studying mechanical engineering at TUM here in Munich, and I've been working with Arrival Aid as a volunteer mentor since 2020. 


Maina: 

And where does the desire to volunteer come from? 


Emma:

I think it's just because I like helping and supporting other people. It gives me joy to see that I can make something easier for someone else that is easy for me. For example, writing an application – this is of course initially unusual for someone who is not from Germany or Europe. You have to consider so many things. If you make mistakes, this can lead to a formal error and the application will no longer be looked at.

 Of course it's easier when you come here. Such a small thing can mean that someone else suddenly has an education. It also feels really nice to help others with something that doesn't seem that big to you.

Jeanne:

And how did you find ArrivalAid ? 


Emma :

In 2020 I moved to Munich to study. I have already been involved in my hometown of Heidelberg, for example in the Diakonie store. After moving to Munich, I wanted to volunteer again and discovered the 'Tatendrang' association. This association provides referrals to many voluntary organizations. After a consultation about what interested me and what I was good at, I became aware of ArrivalAid . They were looking for mentors for migrants and refugees. I signed up for it and have been there ever since.

Jeanne :

And then what was the whole process of becoming a volunteer?

Emma:

It's been a while, but I think everything was a little different because of Corona. When the need for action came, this was done over the phone, although they usually do it in person. Then I contacted ArrivalAid and was called back. At the time, I think there was a Zoom meeting with 3 or 4 others who had checked in at the same time. There was a presentation about what to expect and what you can do. You could decide whether you still wanted to or would rather stop. Afterwards we exchanged ideas via a WhatsApp group. Then I was added to the database and registered as a mentor. A few months later I was asked for the first time if I had the time and desire to mentor a mentee, and of course I wanted to do it. That was my first mentee.

Maina:

Could you please explain to the listeners what exactly is behind mentoring? What exactly is that?  


Emma:

Of course. Mentoring is about taking on a supporting role as a mentor in order to achieve a goal together with the mentee, such as finding training or a job. At the first meeting you get to know each other and check whether the chemistry is right. It is important that you like each other and understand each other well, as this makes working together more pleasant. In my experience, the sympathy was usually there from the start and we usually met weekly or every two weeks, often in the office. During the Corona pandemic, we sometimes met on longer walks. We discussed where the mentee would like to apply, what interests him and what documents are needed, such as a CV, cover letter and, depending on the job, specific qualifications and certificates. Together we sent out many applications and also prepared interviews to prepare the mentee for these situations. First impressions are particularly important, especially when language skills may not be as strong as those of native speakers. Yes, that is how mentoring works, and in the best case scenario, the mentee has found training or a new job at the end and can start a new phase of life.

So far, my mentoring in the Job & Career area has always worked.

 So 100% so far. I think my first mentee will have finished his training in September. He trained as a nursing specialist. Jeanne :

So you're still in touch?


Emma:

Yes, it always depends on the person and how much the person wants to tell about themselves or wants to know about me. Sometimes the mentoring is more professionally focused, when we meet to find a goal such as a job or training. It's like a group work where we work together on this project. After the mentoring, I always say that you are welcome to contact me again if you have a new application or something similar. I went on a lot of walks with my first mentee, especially during the Corona period, and he told me a lot of his story. To this day we still have sporadic contact. I'm also curious to see what it will be like in September when he goes job hunting. Maybe he'll get back in touch, or he'll have already learned everything and can now act independently, which would of course also be cool.


Jeanne:

Very good. And how long does the application period take until you find something?  


Emma:

This can be very different, and I think this is also the most difficult part of mentoring: sometimes you have to write a lot of applications before you are even invited to an interview.

 When you are then invited for an interview, the first impression may not be perfect or they have already spoken to someone else, which leads to an outright rejection. It therefore requires a lot of motivation to continue sending out applications. As a rule, my mentoring sessions have so far lasted between 3 and 6 months. Maina :

What do you like most about your volunteer work? 


Emma:

I just think that I enjoy accompanying someone on their life journey, especially when it comes to something that initially seems insurmountable. Sometimes people have already sent out applications but have not followed the formalities, such as missing cover letters or incomplete CVs, which leads to rejections. It's about overcoming these hurdles together and seeing the joy and gratitude at the end when they can start something new. For me it's nice to know that I was able to help someone and was useful.

Jeanne:

Yes, that sounds really nice. And did you then specifically decide on the Jobs&Carreers program? ?


Emma: 

Yes, I moved to Munich in 2020 when I was just 20 years old and didn't have much experience in many things, including looking for an apartment, although I had already done that a few times.

 To this day I don't feel like an expert in it. But I had already done internships, applied for university places and tried out a lot of other things. I already knew how things work with the German labor market and the bureaucracy. My parents at home always supported me and gave me a lot of feedback. This means that I know most of the mistakes that can be made because I have made them myself. As we all know, making mistakes is the best way to learn. That's why I thought back then that I could really help others. In other areas, I wasn't so sure I could be as authentic. Jeanne :

W hat did you sometimes find challenging? 


Emma:

It is challenging because the mentees often bring with them traumatic experiences, stories that are not easy to process.

 In addition, as a mentor it is important to maintain motivation, especially when there are many rejections despite many applications. You have to stay positive and think together about how you can better prepare for job interviews. It's understandable that mentees get frustrated when things don't work out right away, similar to German applicants who often apply for multiple positions. Practice makes perfect, but learning through many rejections is no fun. Maina :

Could you please tell us about a defining moment from your volunteer work?


Emma: 

Some of the most formative moments for me in mentoring were when the mentees received a confirmation. You then notice how a burden is lifted from them and how they look forward to the new thing. A special moment was when a mentee called me after a successful interview in mechatronics and was totally happy. We had prepared intensively for a week and his joy at the acceptance was palpable. The training company was also excited and contacted ArrivalAid to say how great they thought the program was. It was nice to see how two pieces of the puzzle came together and how I could help.


Jeanne:

Yes, very nice. Now at the end of our conversation, do you have an idea of ​​what you might like to share with our listeners? Or maybe specifically people who would also like to volunteer?  


Emma: 

I think it 's important to keep in mind that no matter how little you think you can do or contribute, that is often more than enough. Of course, this can also be the case in any other area. to apply to Jobs&Careers at ArrivalAid . In this day and age it is extremely important that we listen to each other, stick together and help each other.

 And that's what volunteering means to me, Jeanne :

I really like the way you say it.

 A little effort or the little knowledge we have, even if we are not specialists in the field, can make a big difference. And even if it didn't do anything big, it did something small and helped somewhere. I think it's really great that you found Jobs&Careers as a volunteer and are taking part there. Emma :

Yes, I really enjoy being there too, still do and hopefully will continue to do so in the future.

Jeanne :

Yes, thank you very much for sharing your experiences with us today and perhaps motivating a few people. We will definitely include a link to the Arrival Aid website in the podcast description, where you can read about how you can volunteer.

 Emma :

Thank you for your time, for the cool questions and for the nice setup here.


Maina and Jeanne :

You're welcome and see you next time !

 

………………………………………….



🎧 You can find the link to the entire episode here:

Spotify: Jobs&Careers: #2 Emma

 

Have fun listening! 🎉







July 8, 2024

ArrivalPodcast #1: Jobs&Careers – Magdalena

In this three-part podcast series we would like to introduce ArrivalAid 's Jobs & Careers program. In the first episode we invited Magdalena to tell us more about the program, explain her role and responsibilities as project coordinator and describe the challenges she faces in her work.  

Have fun listening! You can also read the whole episode here 🙂

Jeanne: 

Hello Magdalena, thank you for being here.  

Magdalena:

Yes, thank you very much for the invitation.  

Jeanne:

For those listening who don't know you, could you please introduce yourself?  

Magdalena:

Yes very much. I am Magdalena. I come from Munich, did my bachelor's degree in social work there and then moved to Innsbruck for my master's degree. After studying, I returned to Munich and have been working at ArrivalAid in the Jobs&Careers program for two years.   

Maina:  

And how did you find ArrivalAid ? 

Magdalena:

That was more of a coincidence. After I returned to Munich, I saw the position at ArrivalAid . It was a good combination of my previous jobs during my studies in youth welfare and in HR. The Jobs&Careers program, where I now work, is about the labor market integration of people with a refugee background and that's why it was a really good combination of my previous experiences. I simply applied and I'm happy to have landed ArrivalAid

Jeanne:

Did you plan to work with people with migrant and refugee backgrounds during your studies?  

Magdalena:

The interest in working with people with a migration and refugee background only developed during the course of my studies, especially through my internship semester in a residential youth welfare service for underage refugees. Since then, the topic of migration has never left my mind. I focused on flight and migration in my bachelor's thesis and also in my master's degree. During my internship semester, I discovered that there is a lot of tension between my profession as a social worker and the legal regulations. Social work is a human rights profession, which I also strongly base my current work on. It is very important to me to help people find their way around these structures in Germany and to help in various areas.

Jeanne:

How does the Jobs&Careers program help people with a migration and refugee background? 

Magdalena:

In the Jobs & Careers program, we support people with a refugee and migration history in integrating into the labor market. Our help includes job searches and training searches. We provide our clients with comprehensive advice, explain the structure of training and the structure of the labor market in Germany. Together we create application documents and provide mentoring. Volunteer mentors, who we train regularly, support our clients in 1-to-1 mentoring when writing applications, practicing interviews and looking for a job.  

We accompany the mentoring and are available to answer any questions or problems, especially with legal matters and communication with the immigration authorities. We are also the contact person for potential employers, offer advice on uncertainties regarding work permits and provide support with bureaucratic processes during the recruitment process.

Jeanne: 

Approximately how long do you accompany a client?  

Magdalena:

That varies greatly. Some have only been with us for a few months, others I have been with us for two years. It depends on the individual process, for example whether you first do an FSJ and then look for training.   

Jeanne: 

What are your tasks in the program?  

Magdalena:

I work in project management for the Jobs&Careers program, together with my colleagues Gerhard, Margaux and David. We are a team of four people and provide our clients with comprehensive advice. We are the contact person for volunteers and companies and support bureaucratic processes such as applying for work permits and making appointments with the immigration authorities. We inform companies about what it means if they do not have a work permit and what documents are required. In addition, we organize workshops on topics such as interviews, skills training and finance, often in collaboration with our corporate partners. We also regularly organize job fairs where clients can get in direct contact with potential employers.

Jeanne:

What role or task do you enjoy most?  

Magdalena:  

The variety of tasks. I enjoy being in direct contact with clients and organizing workshops where our clients can exchange ideas and learn a lot.   

Maina: 

What do you find challenging in your work at Jobs&Careers?  

Magdalena:

The biggest challenges in our work are the structural hurdles that our clients encounter. This includes long waiting times and difficult appointments at the immigration authorities, especially for extending your toleration or applying for a work permit. Part-time training is rare in Germany, especially in Munich, which particularly affects single mothers. In addition, the recognition of foreign qualifications often takes a long time and is bureaucratically complicated. These hurdles require a lot of persistence when dealing with the authorities.

Jeanne:

Are you sometimes confused about legal issues? 

Magdalena:

Yes, legal topics are very relevant to our work. We are not lawyers, but we have a consultation with a specialist lawyer once a week and regularly attend training courses on asylum law topics.   

Jeanne:  

Do you often have to forward someone else?  

Magdalena:

So at ArrivalAid we are already well positioned. We have various programs: TranslAid supports translations, which is often not so relevant for Jobs&Careers because many people already speak German well. Then we have the Anhörungsbegleitung for asylum procedures, which helps you prepare for the BAMF appointment. There is also the trauma aid program, a low-threshold offer for people with traumatic experiences. If we notice that this could be helpful for our clients, we offer it and can thus provide a lot of support internally.  

Maina:

How do clients find you?  

Magdalena:

Our clients come to us via the IBZ, language and profession. There you will receive advice and, if necessary, referred to our program.  


Maina:

Thank you for the insight into your work. What else would you like to say to those listening?

Magdalena:

Thank you for the conversation today. What do I want to give people? Regarding the European elections last Sunday: Unfortunately, the results are not surprising, but for me they are still very frightening and depressing. I know many other people feel the same way. That's why I would like to emphasize that it is now even more important to take action, especially because society in Germany and Europe is moving further and further to the right. Volunteer for political and social initiatives. I understand that you often feel powerless, but I believe it is more important than ever to take action now and stand together for solidarity and against right-wing pressure.

Jeanne:

What can listeners do if they want to help with the program?  

Magdalena:

We are always happy to welcome new volunteers. Those interested can register via our homepage, will then be invited to an introductory training course and can take on mentoring. We also offer training and regular meetings for our volunteers.   


Jeanne:  

Thank you, Magdalena, for sharing your impressions with us.

🎧 You can find the link to the entire episode here:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2iIuGCLy2AylkIw2FWYXZN
Deezer: https://www.deezer.com/de/show/1001068372
Amazon Music: https://music .amazon.de/podcasts/99ef0c61-3556-4074-9895-6e155bf4aa89/arrivalpodcast
Acast: https://shows.acast.com/arrivalpodcast

June 21, 2024

Team introduction Jeanne and Maïna

Jeanne and Maïna introduce themselves today and give you an insight into their work at ArrivalAid . In their interview you can read what their typical working day looks like and what projects they are planning for their time with us. At the end they give tips for future interns. We wish you a lot of fun!  

Hello Jeanne and Maina, could you tell us about yourself and your background? 

Jeanne: Hello! I'm Jeanne and I'm 21 years old. I'm currently doing my bachelor's degree in coordination of international and social development projects with Maina in Lyon, France. I have been part of the Arrival Aid team as an intern since May 2024.

Maina: Hello, I'm Maina. I am 19 years old and grew up as a French woman in Munich. I am currently a student in Coordination of International and Social Development Projects in Lyon, France and have been a project management intern at AbilityAid .

What does your typical day-to-day work look like as an intern and what regular tasks does it involve? 

Jeanne: On a typical working day, I come into the office at 9:00 a.m. and check what appointments and tasks are scheduled for the same day. I enjoy taking part in many appointments, for example conversations with clients, team meetings or one-off events such as Career Day. Between appointments, I help create the newsletter , update our ArrivalAid website or write and simplify articles for ArrivalNews. I also sometimes translate a CV or translate into French during an initial trauma support consultation. I get a lot of impressions from working at ArrivalAid , as I receive an introduction to each program and all colleagues are open to questions.

Maina: On a typical day I work from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. My days often vary depending on ongoing projects, deadlines, tasks and needs. My tasks include various research work, translations and support in general project management. I was also able to take part in several conversations with clients and write articles for ArrivalNews. My internship at AbilityAid gave me the opportunity to explore different aspects of the work of an NGO, which was further reinforced by the introduction to various ArrivalAid .

Which projects have you already implemented or planned during your internship?

Jeanne: Together with Maina, we plan to take over the “ArrivalNews” podcast for the duration of our internship and continue it in a new form. Our goal is to present different perspectives on Arrival Aid's work. To do this, we would each choose a program and interview a client, a team member and a volunteer.  

Maina: As Jeanne mentioned, we will bring the “ArrivalNews” podcast back to life. It will be posted on various social media platforms. I am also currently planning the “Open Afternoon” that takes place every month at AbilityAid to bring the different clients together and have a good time together.

How did you find out about the internship? And what tips do you have for future interns?

Jeanne: I found out about this internship through Maina. When I found out about ArrivalAid , I was immediately interested and applied quickly and received an answer just as quickly. My tip is therefore: Simply apply if you want to do an internship where you can get to know many aspects of the work of an NGO and get involved yourself.

Maina: When I was looking for an internship, I already knew that I wanted to work in an NGO. This enabled me to find out about the various organizations and internship opportunities in Munich and came across ArrivalAid . I really liked the values ​​and projects and quickly applied. So my tip to future interns is: Be curious and open to the opportunities that ArrivalAid offers you.

 

If you are also interested ArrivalAid , you can easily apply here We are currently looking for interns in project management at ArrivalAid and AbilityAid . We would love to hear from you!

April 1, 2024

Team introduction to Anne-Charlotte from AbilityAid

Today Anne-Charlotte will give insights into her personal story and how she became part of ArrivalAid . As part of the AbilityAid program, she supports people with a refugee history who have a disability or chronic illness. You can read more details about her activities and the challenges she faces in her interview. Have fun!

Hello Anne-Charlotte, could you tell us a little about yourself and your background? How did you get involved with ArrivalAid ?  

 Hello, with pleasure! I come from France and have been living in Munich since October 2022. I have been working at ArrivalAid for almost as long, having started in December 2022.  

Before that, I worked in France in a reception center for asylum seekers. I accompanied her on a daily basis in all administrative, social and asylum matters.  

When I went looking for work in Munich, I wanted to continue working in the area of ​​migration and integration. I came across ArrivalAid by chance and I'm very happy about it! First, I was a project coordinator for a housing project for people with a migrant background in Bavaria. The project is being carried out by the Protestant regional church and the Diakonie in several cities in Bavaria.  

Now I am part of the AbilityAid team, together with Johanna and Katharina, who have already introduced themselves in a similar interview. I'm working on a new project at AbilityAid . The aim is to found a self-advocacy group for people with a migration background and disabilities. This group should meet regularly and undertake various activities together. This could include doing things together, going on trips, writing an article about their situation and needs, or going to a demonstration. Anything is possible, the group should decide for themselves!   

What does your typical day-to-day work look like at ArrivalAid ? What tasks do you have?

My everyday life has changed a lot since I changed projects. At the moment I am doing a lot of research about the self-advocacy group, the anti-bias method and conducting a field analysis to learn more about the needs and wants of the target group of the project I am responsible for.  

My everyday life varies from day to day as I also have other tasks that I share with others. For example, I take care of social media with Katharina and the Akademie with Gerhard.

Do you have any particular success stories or moments that stand out in your memory? 

In my previous project I had no contact with the people I accompanied. I was responsible for coordination and spent most of my time on the computer or on the phone. I am now even more pleased to be in direct contact with clients again. I really enjoy talking to the people we serve at AbilityAid . I always learn a lot from them. And I look forward to organizing the group's first meeting soon!  

What challenges do you often experience in your work? How do you deal with it?

I think the hardest part of my job is keeping track of everything. Since I have many small responsibilities, I must not forget to complete this or that task by this or that date. I often create to-do lists so that I don't forget anything. I think I've managed quite well so far to keep track of the different to-dos!

What do you do in your free time when you're not working for ArrivalAid ? 

I really enjoy cycling and I also play badminton several times a week. Otherwise, I prefer to be at home or, when the weather is nice, in the garden and read, embroider, crochet (a new hobby I have discovered) or cook.

March 8, 2024

Team introduction to Gerhard from Jobs & Careers

Today Gerhard will give insights into his personal story and how he became part of ArrivalAid . As part of the Jobs & Careers program, he helps refugees find work, training positions or internships. You can read more details about his activities and the challenges he faces in his interview. Have fun!

Hello Gerhard, could you tell us a little about yourself and your background? How did you come to ArrivalAid and specifically the Jobs & Careers program?  


I actually come from the field of special education for intellectual disabilities. After completing my master's degree, I worked for 15 years in practice with people with severe multiple disabilities and later worked in the same subject area as a research assistant at a foundation. After that, I wanted to reorient myself and trained as a business coach and trainer. I then worked for a large educational institution for two years, where I worked as a seminar leader and job coach in programs for migrants for the employment agency. That was also my link to ArrivalAid . I got a tip that there was an interesting position advertised in the Jobs & Careers program, applied and then joined ArrivalAid in August 2021.


What are the goals of the Jobs & Careers program? How do you support people with a refugee history and how do you work with the volunteers?


In general, we want to support refugees in finding work, training or an internship. To a certain extent, it's the same as it is for all of us, but we support people who are not familiar with our culture and our structures. You have to explain the processes and usually also provide support with the language. In detail, we take care of creating CVs and cover letters, searching for jobs and preparing for interviews. We also deal with the recognition of certificates from other countries. All of these tasks are often carried out by volunteers who are active in the program. Here I provide support in the background with information or questions. We also come into contact with employers when it comes to clarifying questions, for example about work permits for asylum seekers. ArrivalAid is a good point of contact to educate companies and eliminate uncertainties. Otherwise, we also help with applications that need to be submitted or with administrative procedures and communication with offices. In addition, we always keep an eye on whether it would make sense to offer refugees other ArrivalAid programs, such as training support, DigitalAid, Anhörungsbegleitung or trauma help. We also organize workshops on topics such as finance and provide training for job interviews.
Our volunteers are a very important part of Jobs & Careers.

They help us to multiply our effectiveness. If we took over all the job coaching ourselves, we would be able to reach far fewer refugees. This means we can apply our expertise to more people where it is needed. What does your typical day-to-day work look like and what regular tasks does it involve?


A typical working day is primarily characterized by conversations with our clients.
These can take place in person in the office, but also by telephone, WhatsApp or email. Many refugees are also connected to other places, which is why we also cooperate intensively with other contacts in connection with migration. We also hold discussions with employers or human resources offices. A large part of our work is research. This involves, for example, finding open job offers or finding out how individual work and training biographies from other countries can be inserted into the German labor market. Phone calls or emails with the immigration authorities or other offices and institutions are also part of our everyday life. It’s also important to stay up to date on the issue of asylum. Last but not least, we also have to document so that all information is available and up to date.


What challenges do you encounter in your work and how do you deal with them?


For all of us here at Jobs & Careers, the bureaucratic circumstances are probably a big challenge. Getting appointments from the authorities in a timely manner, for example if your stay needs to be extended or if the employment contract has been signed and you are waiting for approval to do the work to be allowed to record.
This is where patience is often put to the test. Another challenge can be maintaining a certain distance. You always hear about the fates of refugees that really move you. In order to do your job well, it helps a lot to be able to maintain a professional distance.


What do you do in your free time when you're not working for ArrivalAid ? 


I am an enthusiastic athlete and enjoy spending my time in the gym or on long bike rides. I also enjoy exploring nature outside of the city, be it in the countryside or in the mountains. Otherwise, I am very interested in other cultures, languages ​​and countries. That's probably one of the reasons why I ended up at ArrivalAid .

January 12, 2024

Team introduction to Alena from Trauma Help

Today Alena tells us something about herself and how she came to ArrivalAid . As part of Trauma Help, Alena supports people with a refugee history who suffer from trauma and high levels of stress. You can find out more about Alena and her area of ​​work in the interview. Have fun while reading!

Hello Alena, could you tell us a little about yourself and your background? How did you come to ArrivalAid and specifically the Trauma Aid program?  

Sure, very happy!
 My name is Alena and I am a business psychologist. This means that I studied a combination of economic topics and psychological topics. At the beginning of my professional life, I stayed a little closer to psychological issues in the workplace and in the corporate context and worked in a management consultancy and a human resources department. However, I always had the desire to deepen my psychological knowledge even more in order to support people outside of professional life. So I trained as a psychological counselor. ArrivalAid through an internship a few years ago. At that time, the Trauma Help program did not yet exist. When I decided some time ago to pursue my desire to support people psychologically outside of the professional context, working as a psychological specialist at Trauma Help sounded like it was made for me!

 

What are the goals of the Trauma Help program? How do you support people with a refugee history and how do you work with the volunteers?

 

The central goal of the Trauma Help program is to support people with a history of flight and migration who suffer from trauma and/or high (stress) stress. To this end, we train volunteer trauma helpers who support our clients in alleviating the (physical) symptoms of their trauma and finding or increasing their own strength. In the best case scenario, this will make your everyday life more pleasant again. Our trauma helpers also speak different languages, so that in many cases the trauma help can also be provided in the clients’ native language. The Trauma Help team is of course always available to support our trauma helpers.

We also offer support in group settings, our so-called anti-stress trainings. As the name suggests, the focus here is more on dealing with high levels of stress and strain than on trauma. However, the goal is the same: we want to help those affected to better deal with stress and high levels of stress through a better understanding of stress, resource work and physical exercises.  

 

Since an understanding of trauma, stress and their consequences and effects is generally very important for full-time and volunteer people in integration work, we also offer various seminars and further training events on these topics. 

 

What does your typical day-to-day work look like and what regular tasks does it involve? 

 

My everyday working life is very diverse. On the one hand, I conduct initial discussions with our clients to understand their situations and their well-being and to get a feeling for how we can best support them. In addition, I am always available as a contact person for our volunteer trauma helpers during their missions. In addition, my everyday work includes the preparation and implementation of our anti-stress training for our clients and the training, seminars and further training for full-time and volunteer workers. Since the anti-stress training and seminars don't just take place in Munich, I'm also often out and about - especially around our location in Stuttgart.  

 

What challenges do you encounter in your work and how do you deal with them?

Unfortunately, there is currently a severe shortage of therapy places in Germany. This means not everyone can get the help they need. But that's exactly why I'm glad that we can support affected people through our Trauma Help program. Nevertheless, there is of course great sensitivity around these topics. It can be very affecting when people are not feeling well. However, I am very grateful that Trauma Help's approach is very solution-oriented and offers our clients various self-help methods.  

 

What do you do in your free time when you're not working for ArrivalAid ? 

That actually depends a bit on the time of year.
In winter I prefer to be warm. When it's cold outside, I only really leave my apartment if I have to, for example to meet up with friends. If I'm honest, my favorite place to be in the winter is my couch at home. I often watch a documentary or listen to an audio book. In the summer I travel a lot - whether with my family, which is spread across southern Germany and Switzerland, with friends in other cities and countries or simply in Munich. I love sunsets and like to spend my evenings somewhere where you can watch the sunset beautifully - in the mountains, by a lake or simply in a beer garden.

 

 

January 12, 2024

Team introduction to Johanna from AbilityAid

At the beginning of the year, Johanna gives us an insight into her everyday professional life, she talks about the challenges and successes. Johanna is project manager of the AbilityAid program.  

Hello Johanna, could you tell us a little about yourself and your background? How did you come to ArrivalAid and specifically the AbilityAid program?  

Very gladly. Like several colleagues at ArrivalAid , I am a career changer. I originally studied European Business and Cultural Management. I then worked as a project manager in the book and internet industry for 15 years. I came to the topic of disability because of my private situation. My son has a disability. That's why I've been dealing with formalities such as applications, health insurance, funding, etc. for years now. As a caring relative, I also have experience with the barriers and prejudices that unfortunately exist in our society regarding people with disabilities .

Can you give us an insight into how you organize your consultations for people with disabilities and a history of refugee and migration?

There is no standard approach to advice at AbilityAid . The topics and questions that clients come to us with are very different, both in terms of content and in terms of their complexity. The only thing they have in common is that people always have a disability and a refugee or migrant background. Or they are caring relatives with a child, parent or sibling with a disability. They decide for themselves which issues are most urgent for them. Very often it involves applying for a severely disabled person's card or a nursing degree. But I also help you find an inclusive kindergarten place, a German course or call the authorities. For example, we are currently trying to provide financing for a wheelchair tennis course.

What challenges do you often experience during consultations? How do you deal with it?  

Our clients at AbilityAid belong to two marginalized groups - on the one hand because of their disability, on the other hand because of their refugee background. Unfortunately, they are often doubly discriminated against and many things are particularly difficult for them due to barriers and ableism.
Unfortunately, it is also very practical that there is an undersupply or shortage in many areas.
For example, there are far too few places in special education day care centers for children or for physiotherapy. And most shared accommodation is not barrier-free. I often take the example of clients who rarely lose heart and continue to look for solutions. Step by step we usually get closer to our goal.

Do you have any particular success stories or moments that stand out in your memory? 

In the 1.5 years that I have been at AbilityAid , I have already experienced several success stories and special moments. That's why for me the positive aspects of the job outweigh the negatives and I know that the effort and patience are often worth it. For example, a client who has been with AbilityAid for years got married last year, had a child and received German citizenship - he has had a job for a long time. But it is often smaller successes that we celebrate with our clients: finally getting a place to look after their sister, having a lot of fun doing wheelchair dances, receiving the long-awaited residence permit, getting the A2 certificate or finding a barrier-free apartment.

What do you do in your free time when you're not working for AbilityAid ? 

I have two children with whom I spend most of my free time. If I still have time, I like to go to yoga, go out in the garden or to the Isar or meet up with friends. I used to enjoy traveling a lot, maybe I'll do that again when the children are older.  

Katharina Stoib (29 years old) sits at a table in the course room in the AbilityAid office. Her laptop is open in front of her. She has dark wavy hair, horn-rimmed glasses and a gray sweater. In the background you can see a colleague walking past and windows with light curtains.

October 11, 2023

Katharina from AbilityAid – team introduction

Katharina has been with ArrivalAid for two years now. She told us in an interview how she came to ArrivalAid and what tasks she is now taking on. Would you like to find out more about it?

Hello Katharina, could you tell us a little about yourself and your background? How did you come to ArrivalAid and specifically the AbilityAid program? 

My name is Katharina and I am happy to be able to introduce myself here in a short interview. I have lived in Munich for almost 10 years. Back then, I moved here to study geography and sociology . In addition to my studies, I worked as a personal assistant with people with disabilities . This developed my interest in topics relating to disability and inclusion . Over the years, I realized that I wanted to continue working in this field even after I finished my studies. At first it wasn't that easy because it didn't quite correspond to the direction of my studies and social education training was often required. By chance and luckily, I responded to AbilityAid 's internship advertisement came across – and here I am! AbilityAid for almost two years - an offer for people with refugee experience and disabilities. At AbilityAid I manage the course program.”

Can you give us an overview of the AbilityAid course program? How are the courses designed to best support people with disabilities?

AbilityAid offers computer courses and German courses in our barrier-free office at Dachauer Straße 21a. People with and without disabilities take part in the course program and can learn together. Two lecturers give weekly German practice courses with around ten participants for levels A1 to B1/B2 . The computer courses are taught by volunteers and take place approximately twice a month. This involves basic knowledge of Word, Excel or everyday applications on the smartphone, such as Google Maps, digital translator apps or mailing processes. A maximum of five people take part in the computer courses. The skills, previous knowledge and language levels can be very heterogeneous . That's why the groups are kept small so that the lecturers can respond better to the participants.

What does your typical day-to-day work look like at AbilityAid ? What tasks and responsibilities do you have? 

My everyday working life is always very diverse . On the one hand, I develop the concept and dates for the various courses, manage registrations for them and am always in contact with lecturers, volunteers and clients who are interested in the course program. I also create an internal newsletter for clients , organize AbilityAid 's open afternoon and keep the website and social media up to date.


What do you do in your free time when you're not working for AbilityAid ?

That depends entirely on the time of year . In the summer sun with my friends or family , and then fall into bed exhausted and satisfied. In the cold seasons I spend a lot of time at home and paint, cook, design my apartment or often lie comfortably on the couch, listen to music and do nothing.

We would like to thank Katharina for the interesting interview! If you would like to find out more about AbilityAid , please visit our website . If you have any questions arrivalaid please feel free to AbilityAid team directly ( ability@arrivalaid.org ).

There is also the opportunity volunteer at AbilityAid or   do internship in project management

October 11, 2023

Sausan from TranslAid – team introduction

Below we would like to introduce Sausan, the project manager of TranslAid . We talked to her about, among other things, her role in TranslAid , the program itself and the goal behind TranslAid .

Can you please briefly introduce yourself and tell us something about your background and your role at TranslAid ? 

My name is Sausan and I am happy to briefly introduce myself. I am originally from Syria in Germany for 10 years now . I law and German as a foreign language . I am currently completing a master's degree in intercultural communication .

In my role as project manager at TranslAid I coordinate the program and work to ensure that TranslAid effectively achieves its goals My focus is on building bridges between different cultures language barriers are overcome.

TranslAid is a project that is particularly close to my heart because it helps connect people and promote understanding between different linguistic and cultural communities

 

Can you give us a brief overview of the TranslAid program and its goals? 

TranslAid provides language mediators to various organizations, initiatives and private individuals who support refugees and people with a migration background. The appointments are usually consultations on medical or legal questions , or appointments at offices or for support in the asylum procedure and integration process. The assignments usually take in person at various locations in the greater Munich area or remotely via telephone or video call . TranslAid also processes requests for non-official written translations .

TranslAid covers a wide range of languages ​​to ensure we can best support people. We currently have volunteer language mediators for around 50 to 60 different languages . The languages ​​we requests for most often are English, French, Arabic, Farsi/Dari, Russian and Ukrainian . However, we also receive requests for other languages ​​such as Spanish, Italian, Turkish, Kurdish and many others.

continually looking for new volunteer language mediators for these less frequently requested languages , as we currently have fewer available volunteers for these languages. If someone knowledge of one or more of these languages ​​and is interested in becoming volunteer language mediator at TranslAid

If you are interested, you can register using this form .

 

What resources do you need to successfully carry out your work at TranslAid ? 

For successful work, close cooperation with a diverse team of volunteer language mediators of great importance. Regular training, further education and personal support for our volunteers are necessary to ensure that we are always up to date and can offer the best possible service. 

 

How has your work at TranslAid influenced your personal perspective on the challenges faced by people with a refugee background? 

As far as my personal perspective on the challenges of people with a refugee history in Munich is concerned, my work at TranslAid my empathy and understanding of their situation. I now see more clearly how language barriers can complicate the inclusion process .

This drives me to continue to work hard on solutions that overcome these obstacles and create a better life for refugees in Munich and hopefully throughout Germany .

Is there a message you would like to share with the public to promote understanding of the challenges faced by people with a refugee background? 

As someone with refugee experience, understand firsthand the refugees face. The support of language mediators is crucial as they enable communication, which in turn integration and a better future . Together we can create an inclusive environment where diversity and cohesion are at the core.

 

What do you do in your free time when you're not working for TranslAid ? 

In my free time, when I'm not working for TranslAid , I teach Arabic at the VHS-Starnberg . I also enjoy spending a lot of time with my husband and our cat walks . In my relaxing time, I like to listen to podcasts about true crimes or horror stories . Movie nights and watching Korean series are also my favorites. Last but not least, I enjoy cooking and experimenting with new recipes.

September 20, 2023

Success Story #7 – Dawood

In this format, we give different people who we have been able to accompany at ArrivalAid over the years the space to tell their stories. We try to convey what is being told as authentically as possible and to give people a voice.

Dawood is 21 years old and has been in Germany since July 2022 . He started his training as an industrial electronics technician on September 1st. He is a very open, charismatic person with a great charisma. This week he told us his story and what it was like for him to arrive in Germany and how his life has developed since his arrival. Andrea , a volunteer from ArrivalAid , accompanied Dawood in our Job&Career as he searched for a training position. Together with Andrea, Dawood reports on the collaboration and the search for a training position.

 

The start in Germany

Dawood was born in Jordan and is 21 years old. After graduating from high school, he moved to Ukraine to fulfill his dream of studying medicine abroad. In order to first learn the language and prepare for his studies, he attended the preparatory course for studying medicine. Last summer he came to Germany due to the Russian war of aggression in Ukraine and had to stop his preparatory studies. He finally reached Munich via Düsseldorf and Cologne.

Dawood was the only family member to come to Germany. His family is spread all over the world. His father still lives in Ukraine and his mother in Turkey.

He reports on his arrival in Germany and says that it is very difficult to find your way around and settle in in Germany at the beginning. In the early days he received a lot of support from aid organizations. This also includes ArrivalAid and other organizations and their free courses.

The search for a training position

When Dawood came to Germany, he changed his mind about studying medicine and looked for an alternative. Since the automotive industry is very present in Munich and Dawood also developed a great interest in it, he decided to go into this field.

When Dawood decided to look for a training position, he became aware of the Jobs&Careers program. His mentor is Andrea, she is 25 years old and studies education at the Ludwig Maximilians University in Munich. Andrea has already gained a lot of experience as a volunteer and has been active with ArrivalAid for a year. Before working at ArrivalAid , she worked primarily in child and youth work. The job mentoring with Dawood is her second mentoring at ArrivalAid .

The mentoring began with simply getting to know each other so that both of them could clarify what exactly Dawood had in mind for a training position and where he needed the most support. Afterwards, there were several meetings every one to two weeks over the course of two months to exchange ideas and ask questions if necessary. The two got along very well and the collaboration was very relaxed and uncomplicated.

Dawood already had extensive application documents and he had also independently found out about training fairs that he could attend. Dawood needed the most support when researching a suitable training position, as he had previously had little experience with internet research. Andrea actively supported him in this. Dawood had hardly any problems with the language and has a lot of initiative. As part of a training fair, Dawood became aware of the industrial electronics technician training position and introduced himself personally on site and got to know the company. He was then invited to a trial day of work and was immediately able to convince the employer of himself. His training began this September.

Tips from Dawood and Andrea for people in a similar situation: “Have courage and don’t despair”

Andrea makes it clear that a good knowledge of German is particularly advantageous.

“Sticking with it and learning the language is the most important thing.” She also advises not to lose patience as there will be setbacks. She also emphasizes that you should have the courage to ask questions and ask for help. Open communication would be very beneficial in this case. ArrivalAid ’s clients . “Also go there and talk to people who are in the same situation. That can be very helpful.”

Dawood advises anyone who is in the same situation as he was to seek help in finding training or a job and to contact organizations such as ArrivalAid .

“You always need support because there will be a lot of challenges. Everything is different here in Germany than in our homeland.”

Above all, Dawood emphasizes that technical progress in Germany is very far compared to his home country. In his home country of Jordan, everything works differently; there are hardly any online meetings and email correspondence. All meetings still take place in person. This presented him and many other people who are new to Germany with a big change and challenge.

“There are so many foreigners who think that this is how it works here in Germany, but it’s not like that. You have to adapt.” He also emphasizes, “You have to put in a lot of effort and not let your head down. There will be a lot of rejection, but you can’t give up.”

outlook into the future

Dawood's goal during his training and for the next few years is primarily to expand his knowledge of German. After his training he wants to continue and either continue his education in the form of a master's degree or study at the university. He already has his Abitur and would therefore be eligible to start studying. However, he would like to gain experience in Germany before he starts studying. For him, the decision to do an apprenticeship was the best start to his professional life in Germany.

“I’m not stopping after my training, I want to finish it.”

August 16, 2023

Success Story #6 – Sonya

– Sonya's way to Germany

In this format we give different people that we at  ArrivalAid  over the years, the space to tell their story. We try to convey what is being told as authentically as possible and to give people a voice.

Sonya is  40 years  old and has been  Germany with her four children for almost 1.5 years .  She is currently training in wholesale and foreign trade management and has settled in well in Germany.  ArrivalAid  Sonya has been accompanying her in the Trauma Help Center since March and in the  Jobs & Careers . This week she told us her story and how her life has developed since she arrived in Germany.

Sonya Hangi was born in Kitona, Congo as the third of five sisters. She is now married and 40 years old. She has been living in Germany with her four children since April 2022.

As a child, Sonya grew up in Germany because her father studied medicine in Germany. She followed him to Germany in 1988 as a 5-year-old with her mother and siblings. She spent her entire childhood with her family in a small village between Bonn and Cologne. Here she attended primary and secondary school. When her father completed his medical studies, it was still very difficult for him to find work as a doctor in Germany, which is why the family returned to the Congo.

“In my heart, Germany is my home because I spent almost my entire childhood here.”

After 25 years, Sonya is back in Germany today. But as an asylum seeker she finds it much more difficult than before. Sonya completed her bachelor's degree in Business Administration & Management in Uganda. Sonya is currently doing training in Germany. Sonya decided to do training to secure her stay in Germany. In the event of a negative asylum decision, Sonya can receive training toleration. Sonya decided against employment as a skilled worker, even though she already has a degree and work experience, as this would have entailed uncertain prospects for residency.

“A lot of people complain about Germany, but I'm more of a person who sees the positive. We don’t have to sleep on the streets here, my children go to school, we have health insurance, so I can’t complain.”

Especially because the situation in her home country was very difficult, Sonya really appreciates living in Germany again. For her and her family, Germany is a place where they can finally breathe out and have perspective. She therefore hopes that the rest of the family from the Congo can join them soon.  

Search for training

After arriving in Germany, Sonya and her family initially went to four different camps, which meant her children had to constantly change schools. It was a very unstable situation for her. After arriving in Germany, she received support from many organizations and clubs. Sonya was supported by the job center, for example, in finding a B2 German course. Sonya was also told about ArrivalAid to help her find a job. Sonya first registered with us for our Trauma Help program, where she was shown methods for dealing with stress. Sonya was supported in her job search by our “Jobs & Careers” program. As part of this program, Sonya was matched with volunteer job mentors who helped her select and apply for a suitable training position.

“After that, ArrivalAid gave me volunteers as mentors who then advised me and helped me find training. With the help of ArrivalAid and the volunteers, I actually got a training position in wholesale and foreign trade management.”

After a short time, Sonya was accepted for a training position in wholesale and foreign trade management at Drei Bond. She is currently also working in purchasing at the same company and is very happy there. She often met with the volunteers who helped her find training even after she was looking for a job.

Church asylum

In addition to job mentoring, Sonya also received support from ArrivalAid with the asylum process. Since Sonya and her children entered Germany via Italy, the family received a Dublin decision at the end of last year, which means that Italy would be responsible for the asylum procedure. Accordingly, the family should go back to Italy to go through the asylum procedure there, even though Sonya was already very rooted in Germany through her childhood. Sonya was helpless at the time, still had four underage children and didn't know what to do. We then helped her apply for church asylum, which worked. Now this risk of deportation no longer exists, which Sonya is very happy about.

“I am always grateful ArrivalAid for that.”

Future goals

For the future, Sonya hopes that she can work properly after her training. She hopes this will earn her a higher salary and would like to look for her own apartment for herself and her family. Sonya is currently living in a shared apartment with four other families, which is often a big challenge for the family.

“I would like to look for an apartment for myself and my children. Because we currently live in shared accommodation. Living with four other families isn’t always that easy.”

Her long-term goal is to have a career in Germany, to be able to stay here and to soon find her own apartment. She would also like her husband and their four other children, who still live in the Congo, to be able to join her. Then her whole family could be together again in Germany.  

We will continue to support Sonya should she need our help in the future. It's nice that we can accompany them with our team and our volunteers.

December 22, 2022

Success Story #5 – Mor

– A young man's long journey to Germany

In this format, we give different people who we have been able to accompany at ArrivalAid over the years the space to tell their stories. We try to convey what is being told as authentically as possible and to give people a voice.

Mor is 29 years old and has been in Germany for almost 8 years . bakery for a few years now and has settled in well in Germany. ArrivalAid has been supporting Mor for about 4 years in the Jobs & Careers . He is a very humorous and open person. This week he told us his story and how his life has evolved since he arrived in Europe.

Mor was born in 1993 in Mali, his father's birthplace. His mother comes from Senegal. He spent the first six years of his life with his mother in Mali. He has no memories of his father. At the age of six, Mor was sent to another village to go to a Koran school. For him, this means moving to his grandfather, away from his mother. He learned a lot about the Koran there and still draws a lot of strength from his faith to this day.  

“ Africa was a long time ago. There were a lot of problems there, but God is good to me.”

The journey starts

Mor left his homeland 14 years ago. When he is 15 years old he has to go away alone. He pays $700 to be able to take a boat to Greece. The boat is small, a simple inflatable boat. This is dangerous and cold.

“It can break with one puff. I have seen many people die. I was just thinking about getting through.”  

Once in Greece, Mor has to walk a lot and because of all the water and cold, Mor's foot is injured. Since he had no money for medical care at the time, he made himself a simple bandage.  

“Lots of problems, no family, lots of pain, lots of stress, no sleep.”

Mor then spends a few years in Turkey. He makes ends meet, works as a salesman and is able to finance his life that way. One night there is an attack, he is robbed and seriously injured in the arm. Mor then decides to leave Turkey and go to Germany.  

Positive developments in Germany

Here he arrives in 2015. He initially stays in various cities until he finally comes to Munich. He immediately starts taking a language course. He is very motivated to learn German. Because of his hard work, he learns quickly and can communicate well after a short time. He also immediately starts looking for a job. Here, too, it doesn't take long until he finds a job. He takes up a position as caretaker. However, his dream is to become a baker. 1 ½ years later he manages to fulfill this wish. With the help of ArrivalAid he finds a job at a bakery in Munich. He works there a lot, 6 days a week. He is very committed and bakes up to 300 rolls a day.  

“My hands are always broken, always white from all the flour.”

He likes his work and is grateful that he has now become so well received. He is good at what he does. Three years later he wanted to change companies because the working conditions at the bakery were difficult. In the summer of 2022 he will move to the NEUER Bakery in Munich, where he has been working since then and is very satisfied.

On his day off, Mor likes to sleep in, read, cook or watch a movie. He also likes to buy new clothes and go to the disco.

outlook

When he meets people from Mali or Senegal here, he asks about his mother. Since he left Africa, he has no longer had any contact with her and knows nothing else about his family. He doesn't know where they are or whether they are still alive. He hopes to be able to get information about her one day.

“I don’t have a family, it’s very difficult. But I am fine. Nothing is a problem here. I can go to work, buy clothes, make myself food and just go outside.”

His goal now is to learn even more German and practice reading and writing German. When he is ready, he would like to do an apprenticeship. We continue to support him when he needs help and are proud of him for how he has mastered his journey to date. We are very grateful that he shared his story with us and wish him all the best for his future.  

November 24, 2022

Success Story #4 – Ayyah

– a big sister with a big heart

This week Ayyah (31 years old) from Libya told us the moving story of her and her younger siblings.

ArrivalAid has accompanied Ayyah in the AbilityAid . Ayyah is the oldest of 6 siblings. She has lived in Munich with her little sister (14 years old) and her little brother (13 years old) since 2019. multiple physical and cognitive disabilities since birth and is in a wheelchair. Her brother has autism with difficulty concentrating and hyperactivity . There is currently no adequate medical care for the two in Libya. Ayyah's life revolves around her little siblings every day. She gave up her job as a doctor so that they could have a better life here in Germany.

Ayyah has a very positive aura and manages to remain positive and optimistic about the future despite all the difficulties that come with her life. We are very grateful that she shares her story with us.

 

Departure from Libya

In 2018 the situation in Libya is critical. It's war. Ayyah and her family have difficulty accessing resources essential to survival. There is no appropriate medical care for someone like Ayyah's little sister, who had two head surgeries in 2013. In October 2018, the young girl became ill. Things aren't going well for her. The family is doing everything they can to enable her to have a vital operation. It takes 4 months before the child's parents can apply for a visa to come to Munich for an operation. It is clear to Ayyah that she will accompany her little sister to Germany.  

“My siblings are the most important thing to me.” 

The operation is carried out three days after their arrival. This saves the girl's life. However, her optic nerve has been permanently damaged in the four months of waiting and she is losing her sight. This is traumatizing for the 14-year-old and a serious blow for the entire family.  

“She was already in a wheelchair and already limited, so it was very heartbreaking for the whole family. But we always try to look on the bright side of life. At any time."

More trouble 

Six months later, Ayyah's little brother also comes to Germany. In his home country he attends a school that cannot offer him adequate support. There are children of all ages in his class and it is too difficult for him to follow the lessons. When Ayyah's mother picks him up from school early one afternoon to go to a doctor's appointment, she sees other children laughing at him and beating him up. Afterwards he no longer speaks and is traumatized. His mental health is deteriorating and the family no longer knows how to help him. Then they see a way out for the little boy by bringing him to Germany too.  

Positive developments

Once he arrives in Germany, he can take part in music therapy for six months. He took part very well and blossomed quickly. Today he goes to school and has a place in a special education day care center.  

“My brother has developed what feels like 10 years in just 3 years.”

Ayyah's little sister was also accepted into a school after a year's wait. She now visits them every day for a few hours in the morning. Ayyah describes how much the two of them have developed and how much they have learned here. They really enjoy going to school and have more joy in life again after all the psychological stress. Her little brother likes to help her a little around the house and with looking after their sister. She can now say a few German words and the names of the teachers she likes. She has also already found a friend at school.  

The picture shows Ayyah with her two younger siblings.

“That’s just how life is. But that’s okay, everything will be fine.”

Ayyah's daily life revolves around the two of them. Previously, she was hardly involved in family matters; she worked a lot every day. Now her life looks different. She has been looking after her siblings alone every day for months. It's ups and downs. Sometimes self-doubt overcomes her, but she doesn't give up. Her dream is to one day be able to work as a doctor again.

"It's not easy. But I don't regret anything. If life were to repeat itself, I would make the same decision again and again to come to Germany with my siblings.”  

It is admirable how positive Ayyah goes through life and has been giving everything for her siblings for almost 4 years. She is currently urgently looking for a place for her sister in a special education day care center so that she can finally work herself again. We hope that one day she can fulfill her wish and support her whenever she needs help.



November 17, 2022

Success Story #3 – Abdoulie

– seven years with ups and downs

In this format, we give different people who we have been able to accompany at ArrivalAid over the years the space to tell their stories. We try to convey what is being told as authentically as possible and to give people a voice.  

Abdoulie is 27 years old, has been a trained hotel manager since last year and works in a hotel in Munich. ArrivalAid has been accompanying Abdoulie on his journey for many years - including in the Jobs & Careers and EducAid training support programs. Abdoulie is now a friend of the house; he is a person with positive energy and lots of ideas. He loves his work, likes to cook, play sports and make music. What he particularly likes about Bavaria are the mountains and nature. We are happy that he is sharing his story with us.

“It wasn’t easy at the beginning” 

Abdoulie came to Munich from Gambia in 2015. At the beginning he was in the church asylum in Munich Sendling for a few weeks before he was able to move to asylum accommodation. The uncertain situation in the asylum procedure and in the asylum accommodation was difficult for him: Am I allowed to stay? Where can I live? Is there a perspective for me? Do I have to leave the country again?  

Abdoulie wanted to learn and work, he quickly knew that he wanted to do an apprenticeship. It was clear to him: Learning a profession means having a perspective. The training is also an opportunity to stay and work in Germany if the asylum application is negative. So the decision was made. But learning the German language was very difficult. Abdoulie says, “at some point I thought: OK, I just have to do it somehow!”
At that time, Abdoulie started always speaking German, no matter how, in order to somehow improve.

The training is a ray of hope 

At the end of 2015, he attended language courses for six months, followed by career orientation, and then graduated from secondary school. As part of the orientation, he begins an internship at the Holiday Inn Hotel. There he gets to know all areas of a hotel and finally gets a confirmation for training as a hotel specialist from August 2017. The training is going well, he enjoys the work:  

“I like working with people, with guests. I’m a happy guy.”  

The best thing: He can move into a small employee apartment in the hotel. He lives on the same floor with a few other trainees. After two and a half years in asylum accommodation with several people in one room, having your own room with a small kitchen is like a gift. He is very grateful to his training company:

“My boss at Holly always helped me!” 

Hard times 

Abdoulie was very satisfied with the training. He learned a lot, his German got better, and his colleagues were very nice. But money was tight. After deducting the rent for the room and food, there was nothing left each month. He also worked in a bar in the summer to supplement the trainee's salary. Just work, there was no time for anything else. Then suddenly the negative asylum decision came. It was clear that this could happen. But when it became official, it was hard. Abdoulie was in bad shape, “I couldn't sleep anymore, I lay awake every night. At times everything was very difficult, there was too much stress.”

We appealed the verdict and looked for a lawyer for him. Paying them seemed impossible, but it worked out in very small installments. Abdoulie wanted to stop training. The training was important in order to be able to stay in Germany. Long conversations later, Abdoulie decided to continue the training.  

Big challenges: final exam, corona pandemic & second negative decision

In 2020 everything comes at once. The second negative decision arrives at the beginning of the year and we apply for training toleration. After three years of training, the final exam was due to take place in July 2020. Abdoulie failed it. Abdoulie had no problems at vocational school for a long time and his grades were good. But there was hardly any time for learning outside of work. Above all, he now had to practice math and social studies. The Holiday Inn would have liked to take Abdoulie on after his training, but in the middle of the pandemic and lockdown they were unable to offer him a contract. He soon had to move out of the staff apartment. Luckily he was able to stay there a little longer. Meanwhile, the immigration authorities reject the application for training toleration because Abdoulie is no longer in training.  

We were able to find Abdoulie a volunteer job mentor who helped him apply for a new job. The two were quickly successful and he was able to start working in a small hotel in Munich Giesing. From August he had a job again, but unfortunately only for a few months. Here too, he was unable to continue working due to Corona. Now he no longer had a job and couldn't earn any money and had to move out of the employee apartment.  

When Abdoulie also failed the re-examination in December 2020, we were alarmed. Abdoulie was frustrated. How could we help him? The exam preparation course only took place online once a week, which was not enough. It was a lucky coincidence that we were able to find a new volunteer, a teacher. She also met with Abdoulie and, above all, practiced math with him. Abdoulie was extremely grateful because “ like her, no one has ever explained this to me in three years of training!” Abdoulie became more confident in the word problems and had renewed hope of being able to pass the exam. Then suddenly the information: The second repeat exam will take place orally. You have to know: Communication is Abdoulie's strength! So that was really good news. Abdoulie and the volunteer continued practicing and Abdoulie passed the exam on the third attempt in June 2021. The joy was great and Abdoulie was infinitely happy.

All's well that ends well?

Abdoulie has been working at the Ruby Rosi Hotel in Munich since August 2021. He works there as a bartender, receptionist and supports the service as a host. “My boss is great, my colleagues are very nice. I feel totally comfortable.”

By completing vocational training and working in the profession he learned, he received a residence permit. Finding an apartment is still a big topic, but at the moment it looks like it will work out with an apartment 🙂

We will continue to support Abdoulie when he needs our help. It's nice that we can accompany him with our team and our volunteers.

November 10, 2022

Success story #2 – Assurance

– the story of a young student

In this format, we give different people who we have been able to accompany at ArrivalAid over the years the space to tell their stories. We try to convey what is being told as authentically as possible and to give people a voice.

Assurance (19), who is originally from Nigeria, told us his eventful story of the last few months.

We as ArrivalAid have been supporting Assurance in the Jobs & Careers and EducAid training support . The young man studied in Ukraine and to Germany from Ukraine . He had to stop studying in Kharkiv. His hobbies are playing drums and keyboards, and the 19-year-old also creates YouTube videos in which he plays video games.

The last few months were a big challenge for him, as after arriving in Germany he had to learn the language and find training in a very short time in order to be able to continue to stay in Germany.

The trip to Germany

In 2019, Assurance went to Ukraine to study “Computer Engineering”. When the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine began in 2022, he had to leave the country. He first sought refuge in Hungary for two weeks, but decided to continue on to Germany to live with his aunt and uncle.  

Because Assurance does not have Ukrainian citizenship, he had to comply with the rules for third-country nationals. People who have lived in Ukraine but do not have Ukrainian citizenship are referred to as third-country nationals. Different rules apply in Germany to so-called third-country nationals from Ukraine than to people with Ukrainian citizenship.  

 This regulation brought with it major challenges. 

A stressful time

What does this mean for assurance? Deadline August 31, 2022 – he had to have found a training position by then, otherwise he would have had to leave Germany immediately.  

Assurance entered Germany on April 7, 2022 and only had six months to learn the language, find a job and move into an apartment. However, the young student did not let these hopeless aspects demotivate him and completed a language course in just four months and also received his B1 certificate.  

“It was a really short time to learn the language”

Finding a training position was also a challenge for Assurance. The areas that had something to do with his studies had high demands and were often associated with high costs. So he started looking for training in other interesting areas.  

 “It was a lot of stress for me to find training”

Training

Fortunately, Assurance found a job just before August 31st. and started training as a restaurant specialist at Der Pschorr on Viktualienmarkt on September 1st.

“I’m very proud that I’m doing an apprenticeship.”

The language barrier was a challenge for Assurance in his first month. He sometimes didn't know exactly what the guests wanted from him, but he got used to it over time. Now he feels much more confident because he knows the food and knows exactly what he has to do. The young apprentice is also happy that the training gives him the chance to improve his German skills. In his training company he has to speak German eight hours a day, which helps his vocabulary grow.

 “I am very happy at my job because I know that I have the chance to learn more German during it.”

 Assurance knows that with every advance in the German language, vocational school becomes a little easier. If he has problems with the language, he writes down the words or tasks that are unknown to him and then discusses them with the mentor that ArrivalAid has provided him with. Assurance meets regularly with his mentor after work, and after joint learning sessions the two often do something together.  

“I would like to thank my mentor for the support he offers me”

“If I have difficulty understanding something, I write down the words and then discuss them with my mentor.” 

Future goals:

Assurance's biggest goal is to successfully complete your training. Meanwhile, he would like to improve his German skills. He also wants to finish his studies, which he started in Ukraine. It is important for him to study software development after completing his training at a university.  

“I hope that after my training I can continue my studies in computer engineering”

It is remarkable what Assurance has achieved in such a short period of time. We will continue to accompany him on his journey and support him in following his path. We are pleased that a friendship was formed through ArrivalAid 's mentorship.  

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Onboarding - get involved

How would you like to get involved?

What topics would you like to get involved in?

You can also select multiple answers.

What topics could you support ArrivalAid on?

You can also select multiple answers.

What could your company do for/with ArrivalAid ?

You can also select multiple answers.

You can help us!

We have tasks that might suit you well. Take a look at the suggestions and contact us if you want to support refugees.

Become Anhörung companion

Help asylum seekers to be able to tell their escape story - the basis for a fair asylum procedure.

Registration

More info

Translate

Do you speak more than 2 languages ​​at level B2? Become a language mediator and help with appointments at the doctor or in the office.

Registration

Details

Become an integration companion

Support refugees now! Find the right mentoring program depending on your time and personal interests: work, training, digital or everyday life, and much more

Registration

More info

Become a trauma helper

Help after severe trauma – through education and physical exercises.

Registration

More info

Become a job mentor

Do you have experience with applications? Coach refugees and improve their chances on the job market!

Registration

More info

Become a learning mentor

Support a refugee in successfully completing their training!

Registration

More info

Become a digital coach

Together digitally through everyday life – take part in 1:1 coaching on digital basics!

Registration

More info

Become an inclusion companion

For example, support with practicing German, finding an inclusive kindergarten, finding specialists or other everyday challenges.

Registration

More info

Give computer courses

Lead computer courses (Word, Excel, Internet, smartphone) for people with and without disabilities.

Registration

More info

Give sports courses

Bring your passion for sports into volunteer work by leading a sports group.

Registration

More info

You can support our work!

We have options that might suit you. Take a look at the suggestions and contact us if you want to support the work of ArrivalAid .

promote awareness

Tell your community about ArrivalAid and help even more people benefit from our support!

On Facebook

On Insta

make contact

Contact us - we'll talk about how you can support ArrivalAid 's work!

Inquiry

More info

Sponsor

Help us so that we can continue to make our programs available to refugees free of charge!

Inquiry

More info

We can work together!

Your company and ArrivalAid could work together. Take a look at the suggestions and contact us if you have specific interest.

promote awareness

Tell your community about ArrivalAid and help even more people benefit from our support!

On Facebook

On Insta

Become a CSR partner

Sustainable engagement opportunities for your employees – become a CSR partner now!

Inquiry

More info

Hire refugees

We are looking for companies that give refugees the chance to gain a foothold in the local job market - offer jobs and training positions now!

Inquiry

More info

Sponsor

Help us so that we can continue to make our programs available to refugees free of charge!

Inquiry

More info

make contact

Contact us - we'll talk about how you can support ArrivalAid 's work!

Inquiry

More info

Onboarding - take advantage of the offer

Your situation?

Where do you need our help?

You can also select multiple answers.

Where do you need our help?

You can also select multiple answers.

Where does your company need our help?

You can also select multiple answers.

We help you!

Check out our offers and get in touch with us.

Help in the asylum procedure ( Anhörung /complaint)

We will prepare the Anhörung before the BAMF or the legal action before the administrative court with you!

Inquiry

More info

Translation / interpreter

Here you can get translators and interpreters. For example for appointments with the doctor or at the office.

Inquiry

More info

Trauma first aid

Here you can get help if you have experienced or seen bad things. We'll show you what you can do if you're afraid and stressed.

Inquiry

More info

German practice courses

Free German courses for people with and without disabilities. Courses from A1 - B1/B2

Registration

Newspaper in simple German

The ArrivalNews is a newspaper in simple German - news and exciting topics for everyone who is learning German!

Current issue

Get digitally fit

Your digital coach will help you get better at using digital devices: computer, internet, writing, saving documents...

Registration

More info

PC courses for people with and without disabilities

Computer courses for people with and without disabilities or chronic illnesses.

Inquiry

More info

Advice for people with disabilities

Advice and German courses for people with and without disabilities or chronic illnesses.

Inquiry

More info

Take advantage of sports and leisure activities

Our free sports and leisure activities are organized via the WhatsApp community.

WhatsApp community

More info

We help you!

Check out our offers and get in touch with us.

Help in the asylum procedure ( Anhörung /complaint)

We will prepare the Anhörung before the BAMF or the legal action before the administrative court with you!

Inquiry

More info

Translation / interpreter

Here you can get translators and interpreters. For example for appointments with the doctor or at the office.

Inquiry

More info

Trauma first aid

Here you can get help if you have experienced or seen bad things. We'll show you what you can do if you're afraid and stressed.

Inquiry

More info

German practice courses

Free German courses for people with and without disabilities. Courses from A1 - B1/B2

Registration

Newspaper in simple German

The ArrivalNews is a newspaper in simple German - news and exciting topics for everyone who is learning German!

Current issue

Get digitally fit

Your digital coach will help you get better at using digital devices: computer, internet, writing, saving documents...

Registration

More info

Advice for people with disabilities

Advice and German courses for people with and without disabilities or chronic illnesses.

Inquiry

More info

We support!

ArrivalAid has offers for more diversity in companies. Take a look at the suggestions and contact us if you have specific interest.

Find employees & trainees

We will provide you with suitable and motivated applicants for your open positions – free of charge!

Inquiry

More info

Support your trainees

Volunteer learning mentors, advanced courses in core subjects and help with official issues – we accompany your trainees to successful completion!

Inquiry

More info

Further training on the subject of escape and asylum

Successfully integrate refugee employees – we help with training, workshops and years of expertise!

Inquiry

Become a CSR partner

Sustainable engagement opportunities for your employees – become a CSR partner now!

Inquiry

More info