
Episode #15
A story of survival, belonging, and an unexpected bond | Kaffee und Kuchen with Manar and Veronika
In this episode, we dive into a poignant conversation between Sanchi, Manar, and Veronika. Their stories intertwine through the themes of migration, friendship, and the strength found in community. Manar Abbas, originally from Syria, shares his journey to Germany amidst the turmoil of civil war back home. The urgency of his departure is palpable as he recalls, "In Syria there was no future... you just go in a car, you don't know if you come back or not." Manar's story reflects an urgent search for safety and opportunity, leaving behind friends and family in a rush that felt almost secretive. Upon arriving in Germany in 2015 at the young age of 18, Manar faced the daunting challenge of language and cultural barriers while coming out of his flight or fight situation. However, he found a guiding light in Prof. Dr .Veronika Albrecht-Birkner, who became a significant support figure as he navigated his new life. Manar affectionately refers to her as his "German mother," highlighting the deep bond they formed. Veronika recounts her first encounter with Manar and his brother, recognizing the quiet strength in Manar. Their friendship blossomed into a familial bond as Veronika helped him with paperwork and integration into German society. Manar expresses gratitude for her assistance, stating, "She put a lot of sweat into it... I'm always thankful for her." Through their stories, we see a powerful example of how kindness can bridge cultural differences and create lasting relationships. As they discuss the complexities of the immigration process, Veronika shares her firsthand experiences navigating the bureaucratic landscape for Manar's family reunion requests. The shared frustrations of long queues and bureaucratic delays resonate deeply, as both Veronika and Manar reflect on the common struggles faced by many in the international community. "I found that really amazing... to give these people a voice was my goal," Veronika reflects on her efforts to advocate for better immigration processes. The conversation is a testament to resilience and the power of human connection. As they share their stories, we are reminded of the importance of empathy and support in helping others find their footing in new environments. To hear more about Manar's journey and the powerful friendship he shares with Veronica, tune into the full episode. Their experiences illustrate not just the challenges of migration, but also the incredible support that can arise through community and compassion.






