Courage to change: My path to a new home

My way to Saxony

My name is Naima Bouzoubaa and I am half French, half Moroccan. My father was born in Morocco, my mother in France. I speak French, German and English. I never learned Arabic or Amazigh. I only know a few words. I am a process engineer. After my studies, I worked in the HSE department of a chemical company for almost 15 years.

In Germany, I completed further training in business administration and sustainability management. I moved to Germany voluntarily for family reasons. My partner is German and got a job here. I applied for an MBA at the University of Freiberg. I traveled there by car train. Before the journey, I filled up with the wrong type of gasoline. It's off to a good start, isn't it?

Why I chose Saxony

I live in Freiberg. I had no particular expectations other than: new country, new luck! I wasn't in Germany on a scholarship program. I took unpaid leave at the time to study. I currently work in an association and offer educational programs in the areas of cosmopolitanism, justice and sustainability.

The most rewarding aspect of international work for me is meeting new people from different cultures. I am very curious and always happy to discover new things. My decision to come to Saxony was related to my family situation. Nevertheless, I was interested in continuing my education at the university. I think the landscape here is very beautiful. Another advantage is that we are not far away from big cities, but still don't have their disadvantages.

My tips: Take advantage of leisure activities, make contacts, learn German

I registered for leisure activities and tried to attend events and cultural events. At the beginning, I was out and about a lot with foreign students. As part of a working group for international students, I organized events to promote diversity. I also volunteer in a world store. That's also a good way to get to know people. For me, it was worth starting from scratch.

The German language is important. It is necessary to learn German - not perfectly, but enough to integrate into social life. You have to accept that it's not always easy and that there are moments when you ask yourself: What am I doing here? You kind of start all over again. But maybe it's worth it.

I was never affected by discrimination. Nevertheless, it exists. I can't deny that. That's why I think we should all come together and get to know each other. Isolation is the worst thing that can happen. Children and young people are important. They need to be supported in every way so that they can change society, no matter where they come from or who they are.