My name is Zahra Khawari and I would like to encourage you. Even if your path is difficult, you can achieve a lot if you believe in yourself and have the right partners by your side.

I fled Afghanistan with my parents when I was two years old. We lived in Iran for many years, but life was difficult for refugees there too. It was particularly hard that you could be deported to your country of origin even after completing your education or studies - even if you had never lived there.

Despite this, I didn't let myself get discouraged. I started studying at a university in Iran and completed my bachelor's degree in nursing. The training was very different to that in Germany. The theoretical part was greater than the practical part. Nevertheless, we had a lot of responsibility, supported the doctors intensively and gained a lot of knowledge.

After graduating, we had to flee again because I wanted to avoid deportation to Afghanistan at all costs. I fled to Turkey with my mother and my nephew. It was a very hard time, especially because my mother was ill. We were often afraid we wouldn't make it. After two months in Turkey, we were threatened with deportation, so we fled on to Germany via Greece. We finally arrived in Friedland in Lower Saxony in December 2019.

Here I met my husband, who had already fled Iran with my brother in 2015. After a few days, we found accommodation in Halberstadt and after two months we moved to Halle. After a year, we finally got our own apartment. That was a big step for our family, as we had become parents in the meantime.

In Halberstadt, I had already started learning German and completed an orientation course. In Halle, I obtained the B1 certificate online due to coronavirus. After a break due to the birth of my son, I took the B2 course and successfully completed it. After that, I reached C1 level at the Studienkolleg. Due to my medical training in Iran, where all the technical terms were in English, I am also very good at medical German.

After we had settled in Halle, my goal was to be able to work in Germany. As I wanted to stay in the medical field but also develop myself further, I decided to study medicine and applied to the University of Düsseldorf. Unfortunately, I was rejected. After an intensive consultation at the job center, I decided to study computer science and started the winter semester in October 2024. Unfortunately, I had to discontinue my studies shortly afterwards, as my bachelor's degree from Iran was assessed as a completed first degree and I was therefore not entitled to BAföG in Germany. Unfortunately, I couldn't afford to study under these conditions.

In November 2024, I contacted the Saxony-Anhalt Welcome Center, which was recommended to me by various people. I discussed my options in detail with Lisa Stoye. My degree had already been assessed as equivalent by the Central Office for Foreign Education in Bonn, but in order to be able to continue working in the medical field in the future, I first had to submit an application for recognition to the state administration office. Lisa Stoye explained to me that although I can work in a medical context in Germany without being recognized as a nursing specialist, for example as a receptionist in a doctor's surgery or at a health insurance company, I am not allowed to carry out medical tasks such as taking blood samples. As I have always enjoyed my work and would like to develop further in this professional field, I decided to apply for recognition.

The authority reviewed my application and then gave me two options:

1. I could prepare for the knowledge test on my own and take it. If I passed, my qualification would be recognized.

2. I could attend a one-year recognition course, which includes theory lessons and various internships in the inpatient and outpatient care sector and in a hospital.

After intensive consultation with Ms. Stoye from WCST Saxony-Anhalt, we decided on option two, the recognition course. I registered for this at the relevant school in Halle. Unfortunately, the course was canceled due to a lack of participants. Fortunately, I quickly found a new course in Weißenfels. So I went in search of the required internships. This proved to be extremely difficult and a huge challenge. In most cases, the hospitals in particular canceled immediately. Ms. Stoye supported me intensively and we had many discussions together.

In a roundabout way, I then came into contact with Halle University Hospital. They didn't have a place for me as an intern there either, but a new opportunity arose. After my application and several interviews, the university hospital offered me a permanent, paid position. This is a huge success for me and I'm really looking forward to starting on September 1, 2025. I will then work in the normal day-to-day hospital routine and also prepare internally for the knowledge test. Once I have passed this, I will then be taken on as a nurse.

I feel very much at home in Germany and hope that my husband will also find a good job soon. We definitely want to stay here and continue building our lives.

My advice to you: never give up, even if the road is difficult! Seek support, believe in yourself and make the most of every opportunity. It's worth it - you can do anything!

My name is Dmytro, I come from Mariupol in Ukraine. In my home country, I worked for 16 years as an automation technician and 6 years as a power engineer at the renowned "Ilyich" blast furnace plant - iron and steelworks - in Mariupol, the largest metallurgical company in Ukraine with up to 50,000 employees. But on February 24, 2022, my original life plans changed. When the war started, I left my home country because Mariupol was particularly affected by it. In September 2022, I came to Germany in the hope that the war would end soon. As the situation remained difficult, my decision to find my new home in Germany was confirmed.</p

<p>My journey first took me to Günthersberge. Here I lived with many fellow countrymen in shared accommodation. Within a short time, I moved to Blankenburg (Harz) to my own apartment and finally to Wernigerode, where I live today. The start was not easy because of the language barrier, but I settled in step by step and learned German. I was particularly supported by my grown-up daughter, who lives abroad with her family. She always encouraged me that I had made the right decision.</p

<p>The free advice offered by the Saxony-Anhalt WelcomeCenter, whose regional advisor Gabriela Nagler I met in July 2024, was a great help. She advised me on the recognition of my diploma and the change of residence permit and helped me with many questions, introduced me to an apartment offer in Aschersleben as well as suitable job offers. Last but not least, I also owe a lot to Sylke Endler from the IQ Network Saxony-Anhalt. She also coached me free of charge and supported me with questions and problems relating to qualifications and starting my career (e.g. by giving me valuable advice on having my engineering degree recognized).

<p>However, I postponed the move to a later date in order to have planning security through a permanent employment contract. The A36 is also a good transport connection.

<p>A special milestone was the recognition of my Ukrainian engineering diploma by the Magdeburg Chamber of Engineers. Since then, I can officially call myself an "engineer for automation technology" - a moment that filled me with pride and gave me new motivation.</p

<p>With a lot of ambition, I achieved language level B1 at the Überlingen Academy in Wernigerode in July 2024. This certificate was important proof that I was finally able to apply for jobs and gain a foothold in my career. Within two months, I wrote 29 applications, had eight interviews and completed three trial working days.</p

<p>In September 2024, after a trial period at Magnera Aschersleben GmbH, I signed my employment contract as a mechatronics technician for the maintenance of the process control system as well as for the maintenance, repair, installation and adjustment of automation technology, measurement and control technology, electrical equipment and PLC controls. The company produces printed products for hygiene articles and nonwovens using the latest innovative technologies. Magnera Aschersleben GmbH has its origins in the United States of America and has seven locations in Germany alone, as well as others in Europe. It fills my heart with great joy to be part of the 300 employees in Aschersleben. I greatly appreciate the trust and support of my colleagues, who show me a great deal of empathy and recognition for my person and work performance.

<p>My employer offers a 5-shift system adapted to people's biorhythms, development opportunities and regular training. The working atmosphere is pleasant and a German course is planned at the company. I passed my probationary period long ago and feel very comfortable in my job and my team. Thanks to my experience from Ukraine, I was able to familiarize myself quickly, even if the language and technical terms are sometimes still a challenge.

<p>I have three goals for the future: a permanent employment contract, possibly a move to Aschersleben and a permanent residence permit. I want to encourage others: Success doesn't come by itself - take advantage of the free advice and support offered by the experts and keep at it, then you can realize your plans and dreams for promising prospects of staying.

My journey to the Federal Republic of Germany began in Ukraine, where I lived and worked for several years. Because of the war, I had to leave the country with a heavy heart. I want to tell my story to encourage other migrants and show that it is possible to seize new opportunities and build a new life even in difficult times. My name is Agajan Saparov, I am 30 years old, my home country was originally Turkmenistan. I have been living in Germany since March 2022.

<p>In Ukraine, I first worked in a workshop where we repaired tractors. Later, I worked as a cab driver before I decided to get my truck driver's license. My goal was to work as a professional driver, but before I could really get started, the war broke out. Everything changed from one day to the next. I had to leave my home country in March 2022. I came to Germany alone. It was a time full of uncertainty, but also hope for a better future.</p

<p>After arriving in Halberstadt, I was lucky enough to find an apartment in Blankenburg (Harz) within a week, where I still live today. It wasn't easy at first. I had to find my feet in a new country, learn a new language and reorient myself professionally. It took a year before I finally got a place on a B1-level German course. But I remained patient and used the time to prepare myself as well as possible for my new life.</p

<p>On 27 October 2023, at the educational institution where I attended the language course, I met Ms Nagler from the Saxony-Anhalt WelcomeCenter of the state initiative Fachkraft im Fokus, who regularly offers free on-site consultations for participants from abroad. We have kept in touch at regular intervals since then. I sought advice from her because my class CE driving license expired on 14.12.2023. You have to know that the driving license of people from third countries is only valid for 6 months after entry and the theoretical and practical driving test must be taken again in order to continue driving. I sought advice from Ms. Nagler because I wanted to find work as a professional driver. She checked with the Chamber of Industry and Commerce and the Road Traffic Office for me, but there was no other solution and I didn't have any money to buy a driver's license at the time. In the end, the idea of retraining as a bus driver grew with Ms Nagler, and luckily the job center approved it for me.</p

<p>After completing the German course, I found a job advertisement on StepStone from Harzer Verkehrsbetriebe GmbH (HVB GmbH), which was looking for bus drivers. I introduced myself and was given the opportunity to train as a bus driver. KOBA took over the complete financing of the training and I passed all the exams on my first attempt. It was a big step for me when I signed my employment contract with HVB GmbH in November 2024.</p

<p>Today, I work as a bus driver for the city transport services in Wernigerode, Blankenburg and Benneckenstein. I am proud to be part of the team and really appreciate the support of my colleagues and my HR manager Ms. Wagner as well as Ms. Nagler. I am particularly pleased that I have already been able to drive various buses, including modern e-buses and a Schlenkbus.

<p>HVB GmbH is a company with a long history. Since the district reform in 2007 and the founding of HVB GmbH in 2009, several locations in the Harz district have merged. Today, the company employs around 300 people, including international specialists from ten different countries. I am proud to be one of them.

<p>With my employment contract subject to social insurance contributions, I now have planning security for the future. I feel very much at home in the region and plan to start a family here. The people I meet on my journeys are mostly friendly and I've only had positive experiences with my passengers so far. Of course, there are also challenges, such as the increasing number of assaults on drivers, but HVB GmbH is behind us and supports us with training before such situations arise.</p

<p>My journey to Germany wasn't easy, but it was worth it. I would like to say to all migrants: don't give up! It takes patience and perseverance, but there are always opportunities to build a new life. I am grateful for the opportunities I was given and hope that my story will encourage others to follow their own path.</p

My name is Liudmyla and I would like to share my story to encourage other migrants. In Ukraine, I worked for many years as an accountant and later as a chief accountant in various companies and corporations. I then worked as a tax inspector at the tax office, where I was responsible for company audits. This professional experience gave me a deep understanding of financial matters, which helps me a lot in my new job in Germany today.</p

<p>In March 2022, my life changed abruptly. I had to leave my home country after the outbreak of war. I came to Germany with my mother, while my son stayed in Ukraine with his family. It was an incredibly difficult decision, but I knew that I had to find a safe place for my mother and me. We came straight to Magdeburg, where my sister lives with her family. She has lived in Germany for over 20 years and was very supportive during this difficult time.</p

<p>I knew right from the start that I had to learn the language in order to gain a foothold in Germany. Within a year, I completed the German courses for levels A1, A2 and B1 and obtained my B2 certificate in May 2024. Despite my professional experience, entering the German job market was not easy. From May to September 2024, I wrote lots of applications and went to interviews - unfortunately without success.

<p>Then came the turning point: I contacted the Saxony-Anhalt WelcomeCenter of the state initiative Fachkraft im Fokus and the advisor there, Nataliya Detka. There I received valuable support in revising my application documents and preparing for job interviews. With her help, I found an internship at Harzer GmbH Steuerberatungsgesellschaft. This internship ultimately opened the door to a permanent position as an accounting clerk for me.</p

<p>I am very happy with my job. My colleagues are incredibly helpful and the professional induction made it easier for me to get started. Of course, I want to develop further and become even better at what I do. I have the goal of deepening various areas of responsibility and further expanding my knowledge.</p

<p>My journey has not been easy, but I have learned that perseverance and a willingness to take on new challenges are the keys to success. I hope that my story will show other migrants that it is possible to make a fresh start and build a new life, even under difficult circumstances.

My name is Antonia and I come from Ukraine. I worked there for over 20 years at the pension insurance company - as a personnel consultant and in the processing of digital pension applications. My life was stable, I had a fulfilling job and was proud to make my contribution to society. But everything changed with the outbreak of war. I had to leave my home country to protect my family and suddenly found myself in a completely new life.

<p>In spring 2022, I came to Germany with my two daughters - now 18 and 10 years old. We first arrived in Hanover before finally finding an apartment in Magdeburg. There we hoped that the war would soon come to an end and we could return to our home country. But it soon became clear that we would have to prepare for a longer life in Germany.</p

<p>Instead of despairing, I decided to take action. In May 2022, I started a German course and initially completed the B1 level. With a lot of hard work, I also managed to successfully reach B2 level in October 2024. That was a crucial milestone, because language is the key to gaining a foothold in a new country.</p

<p>With my new language skills, I contacted the Saxony-Anhalt WelcomeCenter of the state initiative Fachkraft im Fokus and the advisor there, Nataliya Detka. Together, we worked on my application documents and prepared me for job interviews. It was an intensive time, but it also gave me a lot of self-confidence. After a short time, I had the opportunity to complete a two-week internship at Harzer GmbH Steuerberatungsgesellschaft. The internship was an important experience for me to find out whether I was up to the demands of the German job market.</p

<p>The effort was worth it: I was subsequently offered a permanent position as an accounting clerk! Of course, the beginning was challenging because the working environment, the processes and the technical language were new to me. But with each day, the work became easier to understand and I felt more and more confident. My colleagues are incredibly friendly and helpful, which made it much easier for me to get started. Today, I am not only satisfied with my work, but also proud to have taken this step.</p

<p>My daughters have also settled in well. My older daughter is now studying and my younger daughter will be attending grammar school from the next school year. It fills me with joy to see them blossom in this new environment. My journey has not always been easy, but it has shown me how important it is to believe in yourself and never give up. I hope that my story will encourage other migrants to pursue their own dreams and build a new life for themselves - step by step, with patience and determination.

I studied German, English and World Literature at the University of Kiev. I completed my master's degree in December 2021. Unfortunately, war broke out in Ukraine in February 2022, which fundamentally changed my life. In May 2022, I fled to Germany and came to Mecklenburg-Vorpommern in the Müritz region.

<p>I had already spent two months there in 2019 working as a waitress with Work & Travel to improve my German. Luckily for me, my boss at the time got in touch when the war broke out and offered me his support. My mother and sister decided not to flee with me, but I came with two friends.

<p>My boss helped us with the applications and offered us a job in his hotel. This opportunity allowed me to improve my German language skills considerably as I lost my fear of speaking. However, the job was only seasonal, so I worked in a hotel in Ilsenburg during the winter season. I returned to Müritz the following summer and spent the winter of 2023/2024 in Ilsenburg again.</p

<p>My colleagues from Ilsenburg had prepared a furnished apartment for me and I worked part shifts, so I hardly had any time to deal with bureaucratic formalities. In January 2024, I finally made the decision to use my diploma. I started researching the recognition of my diploma and tried to have it translated, which proved difficult and resulted in several rejections. Through internet research, I came into contact with the WelcomeCenter of the state initiative Fachkraft im Fokus. I made an appointment with the regional advisor Gabriela Nagler in February 2024 to get support with recognition. My goal was to become a German teacher. Ms. Nagler already recommended the Oskar Kämmer School to me at this point. As there were no vacancies there at the time, I continued to work at the hotel and looked for suitable job offers at the same time.</p

<p>In summer 2024, the Oskar Kämmer School in Wernigerode was looking for a teacher for integration courses. My application was successful and I was offered a permanent position as of 01.08.2024. Now I'm hoping that I can apply for my Blue Card further down the line.</p

<p>In the meantime, I've moved to Wernigerode with my boyfriend and I'm very happy with how things are going here so far. I have great colleagues, great contacts in the school management and great students in the German courses.

<p>For a foreigner, the bureaucracy is a big challenge. The hurdles are high and it is often difficult to find the right contact person at the relevant authority at the right time. The assessment of the equivalence of my qualifications by the ZAB went quickly, but the recognition of my diploma is still a long time coming.</p

<p>Life in Germany is not easy and you have to do a lot yourself to make a living and achieve your goals. Nevertheless, I am very happy and very grateful to everyone who has supported me.

<p>I can very well imagine a future in Germany and am looking forward to the time ahead.</p

<p>Viktoria

In my home country of Iran, I completed a bachelor's and master's degree in chemical engineering/process engineering at the University of Tabriz, which I completed in 2014. I then worked first in research and then in quality control and technical monitoring in a plastics company and a bitumen company. Most recently, I worked as a refinery engineer.

<p>During the coronavirus pandemic, I had the desire to change my life and decided to move to Germany, where I enrolled at Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg to study process engineering. The Master's degree complements the studies I had already completed in Iran. Entry was delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic, so I arrived in Magdeburg as a student in October 2021. Thanks to the support of the Studentenwerk, I was able to move into an apartment in a student hall of residence. I immediately registered for a German course at the university. In addition, I improved my language skills through apps and YouTube, so that I am now at level B2-C1. To be able to prove this, I am currently aiming for the next German course.</p

<p>As there is no financial support for students from Iran in Germany, I quickly looked for a part-time job and worked as a helper in pizza production in Osterweddingen and as a cleaner in a café.

In June 2023, I then took part in the Discovery Days of a global multi-energy company and had the chance to spend two days getting to know the company and the career opportunities there. Following the interviews with the managers there, I was given the opportunity to complete an internship in the security department, which I did for two months. I then had the chance to switch to the process engineering department.</p

<p>I then worked for seven months, alongside my studies, three days a week in Leuna on a large rationalization project. This job was demanding, as the journey time by public transport was three hours each way. Nevertheless, this experience helped me a lot in my professional development. My goal was to find a job in Magdeburg. I wrote almost 100 applications, received 23 rejections and 4 positive responses. I interviewed at 3 companies in the area, one far away from Magdeburg and one company in Magdeburg.

<p>During a visit to the Returnee Day in Staßfurt, I had the opportunity to get in touch with Ms. Hilbert from the WelcomeCenter Saxony-Anhalt. She initially helped my friend find a job in Staßfurt. During another contact with Ms. Kegel, regional advisor for skilled workers in the state initiative Fachkraft im Fokus, at a job fair in Magdeburg, I realized that I also needed support in my own job search. We then agreed on further steps and I came into contact with Ms. Hilbert again. Ms. Hilbert gave me valuable tips on the application process, conducted interview training sessions with me and gave me the confidence I needed. In the end, I was able to find a job in a Magdeburg-based engineering and plant construction company for the chemical, pharmaceutical, food and energy industries. Here I will be working as a project manager for process engineering. In order to be able to stay in Germany permanently, I have already applied for the "EU Blue Card".</p

<p>I am very grateful to the regional advisors for skilled workers in the state initiative Fachkraft im Fokus and the WelcomeCenter Saxony-Anhalt for their support. Magdeburg is an attractive city with lots of greenery, a friendly atmosphere and peaceful surroundings. The city has a beautiful location on the Elbe, excellent housing options and a diverse business landscape. My girlfriend and I feel very comfortable here and plan to stay for the long term.</p

In my home country, the Republic of the Philippines, I earned a Bachelor of Science in Electronics and then worked in the development department of a global company that manufactures printers, scanners, digital cameras and other electronic products. My goal has always been to go abroad as it is difficult to find a job in the Philippines where my qualifications are recognized and well paid. Originally, I had planned to go to Canada, as I wouldn't have had to learn a new language there. However, I had already started learning German A1 at the Goethe-Institut in the Philippines, as this language certificate is a prerequisite for all long-term visas for Germany.

<p>After I met my current husband online in 2019, it was clear that I would go to Germany. After we got married and found an apartment in Halle, I gradually improved my language skills. When I had successfully completed German B1, I started a mini-job so that I also had some money of my own. I used it to buy a bicycle, among other things.</p

<p>After contacting the employment agency, I continued to learn German B2 for my job and then also German C1. But it wasn't easy to find a job here because I often got rejections on my applications.

<p>I only made progress after a job fair, where I came into contact with the employees of Fachkraft im Fokus. In particular, finding contacts at companies helped me a lot. In order to get a job, it is important to have your vocational certificates recognized by the KMK. This takes a while and costs a lot of money, but it is the most important step in getting a job as an engineer here in Germany.

<p>Today I work at INGenium EMSR GmbH in Halle and I am very happy that my current bosses have confidence in me and my skills and that I am an integral part of the team of planning engineers. Since 2024, I have been recognized as a Bachelor of Sc. in Electronics Engineering by the Chamber of Engineers of Saxony-Anhalt and have also become a member of the chamber.

<p>For me, my lifelong dream has come true, both professionally and privately, and if you really make an effort and focus on finding a job here and building your life, you can do it. My next goal now is to become a naturalized citizen, which is also a lengthy process, but I am very optimistic.

The Saxony-Anhalt WelcomeCenter is the state's central point of contact for skilled workers from abroad. Habib Carim also found support from us on his way to Saxony-Anhalt. Today he has arrived - in his job and in his new home in Magdeburg.
As part of the state initiative "Fachkraft im Fokus", the WelcomeCenter offers comprehensive advice, guides foreign skilled workers through the entire process and puts them in touch with relevant contacts. It also promotes the exchange of knowledge in the region through training courses, online seminars and an extensive online information library. The best conditions for arriving here. Because Saxony-Anhalt has a lot to offer: picturesque nature, a diverse cultural offering, a dynamic economy, affordable housing and excellent childcare.

"Many thanks to Ms Mogdans from the WelcomeCenter Saxony-Anhalt for her support and excellent guidance during the process," says Carim.

Kerstin Mogdans, coordinator for the WelcomeCenter Saxony-Anhalt, is active throughout the state in the Welcome Structures and Family Friendliness department.

<p

<p>If you also need support, the staff at the Saxony-Anhalt WelcomeCenter will be happy to assist you.

I completed a degree in social work in my home country of Ukraine and then studied economics. During my studies, I worked as an emergency paramedic for 8 years. After that, I worked as a bank clerk for 2 years as a consultant in all financial matters. In the following 12 years, I worked as an employment mediator at the job center in my hometown. In this position, I looked after a total of between 300 and 400 customers. I took care of everything. Every day I registered new customers, calculated unemployment benefits, informed unemployed people about job opportunities on the labor market, helped customers to compile their CVs and letters of application and, of course, looked for suitable staff for employers. I looked after around 50 customers a day and made appointments every 10 minutes. My main goal was to match a worker with the right employer. Although the workload was enormous, I really enjoyed this job.

I had to leave my home country due to the outbreak of war in Ukraine. In March 2022, I fled to Magdeburg with my daughter and was accommodated in a hostel. There we received great support from volunteers and a German family. In May 2022, I completed a German course and then completed a B2 integration course. After that, I started looking for a job. Nataliya Detka from the WelcomeCenter Saxony-Anhalt gave me a lot of support. She explained to me how to write an application and a CV here in Germany. She also helped me prepare for job interviews and explained the work culture and communication in the workplace. These are very different from those in Ukraine. Thanks to the great support, I even had the choice between two jobs and finally decided on the position as a job placement officer at the job center. I am really happy with my decision. Our department is relatively small and I have very nice colleagues who are always there to help and advise me. There is a comprehensive induction plan and I hope to be able to carry out my first job placements soon.</p

<p>I really like Magdeburg and hope to find a new home here. My daughter is now studying at Otto von Guericke University and has also settled in quite well.

Tariq Al-Maáitah was born in Jordan and has dreamed of becoming a doctor since he was young. Attending language courses and studying medicine is very expensive in Jordan, but his parents made this path possible for him and after graduating from high school he studied human medicine at Mútah University in Al-Karak from September 2014 to June 2020. From July 2020 to July 2021, he deepened his knowledge in the fields of surgery, internal medicine, gynecology and pediatrics at the Prince Ali Military Hospital in Al-Karak. He then worked as a general practitioner at the "South Jordan For Occupational Health" in Al-Karak until the end of 2022.

<p>While searching for a suitable place for his further medical training, he became aware of the partnership between the German Federal Employment Agency - the ZAV International Placement Services in Bonn - and Jordan and was one of 316 applicants to receive one of the 15 scholarships for entry to Saxony-Anhalt.

Tariq Al-Maáitah entered the Federal Republic of Germany on 10.01.2023 and received his employment contract and accommodation in a clinic in the Harz region on 13.01.2023. At the same time, he attended the C1 specialist language course alongside his work, which he successfully completed on 10.08.2023.</p

<p>After successfully completing the C1 specialist language course and being able to apply for his work permit, he was suddenly confronted with the fact that his fixed-term employment contract could not be extended for financial reasons at the hospital.

In August 2023, Gabriela Nagler from the WelcomeCenter Saxony-Anhalt in Halberstadt was involved in the further process. She immediately contacted the parties involved and the Federal Employment Agency and set all available measures in motion to find Tariq Al-Maáitah a new employer with suitable accommodation. Tariq Al-Maáitah's five-year training as a junior doctor and his planned stay in Germany were at stake. Thanks to the good cooperation between the parties involved, a new solution was found quickly and he was taken on as an employee in the orthopaedics department at the "Teufelsbad" rehabilitation clinic in Blankenburg (Harz) on 1 October 2023 and was also allowed to live there. As the circumstances at the original clinic had changed in the meantime and a new opportunity for employment arose, he decided to continue his career as a vascular surgeon there from December 1, 2023.

The colleagues at the "Teufelsbad" rehabilitation clinic were extremely accommodating and supported him in his decision to continue his specialist training and made it possible for him to change jobs again at short notice.

<p>In the meantime, he has received his professional license. As a result, his residence permit is no longer at risk and Saxony-Anhalt has gained a specialist who spares no effort in pursuing his career with determination and successfully completing his specialist training.

<p>Tariq Al-Maáitah greatly appreciates the discipline and high quality standards in Germany, but would like to see less bureaucracy. He is grateful for the support of his parents, Inga Thomsen at the Federal Employment Agency, doctor Katharina Bühl, Alexandra Hahne from the Employer Service, Gabriela Nagler from the WelcomeCenter Saxony-Anhalt and the entire team at the "Teufelsbad" specialist rehabilitation clinic in Blankenburg (Harz).

Arriving in Saxony-Anhalt with a job as a marketing expert.

In my home country of Ecuador, I completed a bachelor's degree in corporate communications and worked in various marketing areas. I came to Germany in September 2017, first completed a 6-month internship at the ESZ-EUER language center in Freiburg in the field of social media and then completed my Master's degree in Business Administration at the University of Applied Sciences in Bernburg. As I have a great affinity for languages, it was no problem for me and I settled in very well in Germany. What's more, my aunt has lived near Freiburg for more than 20 years and provided me with additional support.</p

<p>Love brought me from Bernburg to Magdeburg, which is why I started looking for a job in Magdeburg. In November 2021, I had my first consultation at the Saxony-Anhalt WelcomeCenter of the state initiative Fachkraft im Fokus. It was great and, thanks to my good network, my advisor Nataliya Detka also had an idea of which employer I could introduce myself to. I was very nervous before the interview as I didn't know what to expect. However, it was an extremely pleasant appointment with a positive outcome. I was able to start my job as an employee in the marketing department straight away. Initially I worked from home, as I was planning to fly to my home country in December, which was a 15-hour flight away and therefore felt like I was on the other side of the world. The IT guy set up a connection for me especially for this purpose.</p

<p>On 17.01.2022, I started working in the office. The job holder was unable to give me an intensive induction as my predecessor had her last day on that very day. So it was a flying change and I had to jump straight in at the deep end. But now, after just over a year, I can say that I have mastered this challenge very well together with my colleagues. It's a very demanding and interesting job, with lots of technical challenges and visits to trade fairs and customers. No two days are the same. I'm very proud to do this job, I've learned so much and also completed a German course on the side.

<p>I am very grateful to my bosses Mr. Zwick and Mr. Fischer for being so supportive and offering me the job. We looked for and found each other and now have a friendly relationship. The working conditions are great and cannot be compared with the conditions in Ecuador. There you often only work 40 hours on paper, but in reality you often work more, which is not remunerated. In addition, you are only entitled to 15 days of vacation per year and employee rights are not as friendly as in Germany. In general, I feel very comfortable in Magdeburg and would like to stay. Professionally, I would like to develop further in various areas, such as GDPR, budgets and digital marketing.

<p>Altmark-based production company visuSolution GmbH from the optics industry finds the perfect candidate from Ecuador

Claudia de Beaux, HR Manager and Personnel Officer at visuSolution GmbH, uses as many different recruiting channels as possible to counteract the shortage of skilled workers. For this reason, she has been in close contact with the regional consultant for skilled workers, Jana Worreschk, from the state initiative "Fachkraft im Fokus" for some time. Together with her colleagues from the "WelcomeCenter Saxony-Anhalt", Ms. Worreschk found exactly the right applicant for our position. I received comprehensive advice in advance, my inquiries were answered on a daily basis and the subsequent placement of Maira Montalvo Rojas was quick and uncomplicated. It certainly takes a bit of luck to find exactly the right specialist, but I am absolutely satisfied with the result of the collaboration, says Claudia de Beaux, summing up.

<p>Meanwhile, Ms. Montalvo Rojas has been working at visuSolution GmbH for one and a half years and it's a perfect fit. Her professional development is significantly supported by her employer and both sides are happy with the support provided by the state initiative "Fachkraft im Fokus" and the associated "WelcomeCenter Sachsen-Anhalt".

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Aybaniz Garadzhaeva speaks fluent Russian and Ukrainian and is highly sought-after in the German education system thanks to her two diplomas in education. The Ukrainian wants to build a future for her family in Saxony-Anhalt. She sees Magdeburg as a good place to find a new home. And she has now regained her courage, is confident and is looking to the future. "I would also like to stay here and establish myself professionally," says Aybaniz and is looking forward to her first lesson in Germany.

<p>The teacher and social education worker from Kharkiv did not expect to have to leave her home country and start her life anew in another country. The young mother loves her job and working with pupils in her home country, Ukraine. The outbreak of war changes her entire life. For a long time, the ambitious woman tries to keep the lessons going at her school in order to preserve a bit of normality there. But then nothing works anymore. When the windows of the school are shattered by a detonation right in front of her eyes, she has no strength left either. Together with her children, she embarks on a traumatic 30-hour flight to Germany. The terrified family first travels via Berlin to Hanover, from there back to Berlin and then finally to Saxony-Anhalt.

<p>In Magdeburg, Aybaniz Garadzhaeva contacted the state initiative Fachkraft im Fokus through a recommendation and met our regional advisor at the WelcomeCenter, Nataliya Detka. The detailed and very emotional conversation between the two women in their native language gives Aybaniz a sense of security. She quickly gains confidence in our emphatic and knowledgeable regional advisor. Nataliya Detka explains the priority and sequence of the measures to be taken and immediately contacts the regional education authority. In a very short time, all the important documents are compiled together and sent to the office. Now Aybaniz Garadzhaeva can hardly wait for the feedback and a new start to her career in Saxony-Anhalt.

"It is truly one of the beverages that no company, restaurant or industry should be without - coffee," says Johannes Lübbers, who is urgently looking for a field service technician for his company for whom mobility is not an obstacle. "Rent coffee machines and water dispensers at a reasonable price and enjoy the highest quality! We have been offering a complete coffee service in Saxony-Anhalt, Saxony, Brandenburg, Berlin and Lower Saxony since 1991. A full service is a matter of course for us! Whether it's a technical problem with the fully automatic coffee machine or the delivery of new filling products, with us everything comes from a single source!"</p

<p>Johannes Lübbers, Managing Partner of procon GmbH, turned to the state initiative Fachkraft im Fokus in February 2022. André Gottschalk, regional consultant for companies, initially takes care of the entrepreneur's request. It soon transpires that the company is quite willing to invite skilled workers with a migration background to interviews for the full-time position to be filled.</p

<p>The regional consultant at the Saxony-Anhalt WelcomeCenter, Nataliya Detka, supports the entrepreneur in the search for suitable skilled workers and advises him on all issues relating to their professional and social integration. She suggests a total of four Ukrainians and Belarusians as candidates to Johannes Lübbers. Two of them will be invited to an interview in March.</p

<p>Mr. Rafayevych has lived in Germany for 20 years. He convinces the entrepreneur of his technical understanding and is offered a permanent position as a field service technician with a six-month probationary period. His area of responsibility is the maintenance and repair of commercially used hot and cold beverage systems. Mr. Rafayevych familiarizes himself very quickly and competently with his area of responsibility. "He is friendly, nice, reliable and extremely interested. The company is very happy with him. Nevertheless, there is unfortunately a significant language barrier, which could become a problem for procon GmbH," adds Johannes Lübbers. Mr. Rafayevych is therefore receiving a great deal of support from the company so that he can quickly improve his language skills. He is motivated to complete a language course alongside his work and is also supported by his colleagues. Everyone hopes that Mr. Rafayevych will be able to integrate very quickly in terms of language skills and qualify as an excellent mentor in the process.

Motivated employees are the basis for the success of your company

It doesn't have to be a daycare center - there are many ways to design family-friendly measures in your company.Kerstin Mogdans is a coordinator at the Saxony-Anhalt WelcomeCenter of the state initiative Fachkraft im Fokus. As part of her multifaceted consulting activities, Ms. Mogdans also sensitizes employers to the possibilities of designing family-friendly measures in their companies. This is not necessarily about the big projects. Rather, it is the small ideas that do not always have to cost money or involve large investments. Kerstin Mogdans attaches great importance to finding and adopting solutions together that suit the company and its employees. Karsten Doll, Managing Director of Rettungstechnik Doll GmbH, expressed the fact that this message was well received by the entrepreneurs in an event feedback:

"On February 22, 2022, we held a workshop with our managers at our company. The aim was to sensitize the team to the topics of adapting the company guidelines, family orientation and developing suitable measures for implementation. The aim was also to make communication more successful in order to motivate, retain and attract specialists and to strengthen the external and internal image of the company. The workshop with lots of input and group work under the moderation of Kerstin Mogdans was very constructive and goal-oriented, as it was about making existing good structures visible in (potential) comparison with the ideas and wishes of our employees. We were put on the right track here and possibilities were discussed. We will continue to actively work on the planned measures and push ahead with their implementation.
We would like to express our sincere thanks for the interesting impetus and good moderation."

Jelena Medjo is disillusioned, disappointed and very worried. She came to Germany in 2011 for private reasons and comes from Serbia. She studied geography there to become a teacher and worked in the public sector for several years. But Ms Medjo didn't really arrive in Germany at first.</p

<p>At the beginning of 2021, the Halle Employment Agency recommends a consultation at the Saxony-Anhalt WelcomeCenter. Ms Medjo immediately arranges an initial appointment with Vanessa Adloff, regional advisor at the WelcomeCenter. The two women talk at great length about all the areas of tension that have accumulated over the years. It quickly becomes clear that Jelena Medjo will only be able to concentrate on her own career once her daughter is well looked after. The state education authority finds a place for Laura in Year 5 at the "mother and daughter's preferred grammar school" in Kröllwitz. Both are very ambitious and had wrongly feared that there might be problems here due to the catchment area.</p

<p>In 2013, Jelena Medjo completed a B2 language course. For many years, the young woman with an affinity for languages worked in the low-wage sector in an unskilled job. She now lacks confidence in her own strengths. Having worked out these strengths and consolidated them through Ms. Adloff's recommendations on possible future prospects, Ms. Medjo started further training for educational professionals through the IQ Network Saxony-Anhalt in September 2021 and found a competent contact person in Thomas Nauhaus. At the same time, Ms. Adloff continues to provide her with intensive support in drawing up application documents and preparing for job interviews.

The first job interviews will take place in May 2021. Jelena Medjo is still unsure whether she can imagine working as a teacher in Germany. She initially decides to work in an after-school care center and is offered a permanent position in September 2021. She continues her training at the same time and successfully completes it in December 2021. In order to be able to join the active teaching profession, all she needs is the C1 qualification. Ms Medjo can obtain this at any time later and even receive financial support through various programs. "There is always an opportunity and room for further training," Vanessa Adloff tells her.

<p>Mrs. Medjo is not the exuberant type, which makes her highly positive feedback all the more important: "The FIRST consultant in 10 years of my stay in Germany who really knows her job. All kinds of official institutions in this country didn't know what I was supposed to do with my already recognized university degree for 8-9 years. All except one! My advisor Vanessa Adloff! THANK YOU SO MUCH - UNTIL HEAVEN!"

"Such a comprehensive consulting success within a year is rare and only possible if everyone is motivated to work together and all network partners are supportive." emphasizes Vanessa Adloff. "The once motivated Jelena Medjo had almost given up. Now all areas of conflict have been resolved. There is now room for happiness on a personal and professional level."</p

How professional integration of foreign skilled workers works at the ARAL car dealership in Magdeburg-Rothensee: Arriving, establishing, developing

You can see the blue flags fluttering in the wind from afar. The ARAL truck stop in Magdeburg-Rothensee, with its 63 truck parking spaces directly on the A2, has become a popular place for many truckers to enjoy a well-earned break and even a piece of home. The feel-good factor is particularly important to owner Ines Rödiger and station manager Kathrin Holland. In addition to fuel, car wash & Co., the Autohof also offers a bistro with 20 seats and a daily changing range of hot meals. "We still cook our own food here and prepare it to order. Truckers eat rough! To be able to offer such a wide range of services in the best quality 24/7*, you need highly motivated and satisfied employees." emphasizes Ms Rödiger, referring to the shortage of skilled workers in her industry as well.</p

<p>On recommendation, Ines Rödiger turns to the WelcomeCenter Saxony-Anhalt and relies on its consulting services for companies. Marion Hilbert, Regional Consultant WelcomeCenter in Magdeburg, presents the complex package of services offered by the state initiative Fachkraft im Fokus. She holds an in-depth discussion with the entrepreneur on key issues such as employer attractiveness, the professional integration of people interested in moving to the region and the opportunities for recruiting skilled workers, including via the job and skilled worker exchange of the state initiative Fachkraft im Fokus. "Foreign skilled workers are already working at Autohof." Ms. Rödiger praises their reliability in particular. Together, the women look at the company's opportunities for the professional integration of further foreign skilled workers and the resources that can still be exploited.</p

<p>Mr. Karimi has been in Germany since 2015. The very sporty young man from Iran was already working in various jobs when he registered with the state initiative Fachkraft im Fokus at the end of 2019. From then on, he was mainly accompanied by the regional consultant at the WelcomeCenter, Nataliya Detka. Together, they drew up application documents and developed an application strategy. Although Mr. Karimi is very motivated and followed all recommendations with an open mind, the coronavirus pandemic, which had just begun, did not exactly make it easy to find an attractive job. Mr. Karimi was all the more pleased about the offer from the Aral car dealership. One job interview later, he is already employed. "I am so glad that I took this step. From today's perspective, my world is in order. I'm financially independent," says the articulate and numerate young man in his mid-twenties, visibly enthusiastic. With this first step, everything is suddenly possible. Mr. Karimi can finally arrive in peace, establish himself and develop.</p

<p>Kathrin Holland is already completely satisfied with this first result from the advice provided by the WelcomeCenter Saxony-Anhalt. Ines Rödiger is also delighted with Mr. Karimi's permanent position. "The Autohof is a piece of family for me. I need a good hand when putting my team together. Everyone has to do everything here: Customer service, bistro activities, product range, sanitary areas & Co. A certain degree of personal responsibility is just as important as personality. Everyone has to get on with each other and treat customers courteously. Good interaction is very important. The fact that Mr. Karimi fits in so well with us is really a happy coincidence." And the fact that the Autohof really is a bit of a family is also evident from the fact that even a former employee is always happy to pop in and help out here and there.

<p>"This story clearly shows that it is very important to take a holistic view of all the circumstances surrounding a specific company's skills shortage and to think outside the box. But you also need the right offer and the willingness to take advantage of it," emphasizes Marion Hilbert and adds with a smile: "And sometimes a lucky coincidence also helps us."
www.tankstelle.de

*The abbreviation 24/7 refers to the constant availability of a service: 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Photo: Kathrin Holland and Mr. Karimi in the bistro kitchen of the ARAL car service station in Magdeburg-Rothensee © ARAL-Autohof

Eight foreign doctors want to find their center of life in Saxony-Anhalt. We support them: A walk through the history of the Ottostadt Magdeburg.

The sun is shining as the cheerful medical professionals from various regions of the world meet up for a tour of Magdeburg. The people from the Philippines, India and Iran, who are interested in moving here, set off on foot through the history of the Ottostadt. Nataliya Detka and Marion Hilbert, regional consultants, and Kerstin Mogdans, coordinator and advisor at the Saxony-Anhalt WelcomeCenter of the state initiative Fachkraft im Fokus, had invited them. They accompanied and supported some of the medical professionals with entry formalities, quarantine accommodation and care or finding accommodation. The range of assistance provided to the specialists is very broad and extends all the way to starting a career in a hospital in Saxony-Anhalt. Four of the medical professionals are currently preparing for the German language exam at the Institut für Berufspädagogik e. V. (Institute for Vocational Education). The other four have already successfully passed this exam and can now start working in a hospital with a professional license or license to practice medicine. At the same time, the recognition of their degrees and qualifications acquired abroad continues, supported by consultants from the IQ network.

How difficult topics can also be tackled a little unconventionally

The city tour is part of the support for arrivals and social integration. The participants can get to know each other a little better in an informal setting. They share their experiences of settling into a new country, a new region and finding a job. They network to make arriving and staying here easier.

Elke Orlowski, Director of the Institut für Berufspädagogik e. V. in Magdeburg, accompanies the inquisitive group on the tour, which first leads to the Alter Markt with the Magdeburg Horseman and to St. John's Church, where Martin Luther once preached. The route passes by the Kunst­museum of the monastery of Unser Lieben Frauen and the GREEN CITADEL OF MAGDEBURG to introduce Hundertwasser's ideas of architecture in harmony with nature. City guide Dr.Helmut Hörold ends the walk at the cathedral square in the immediate vicinity of the city's landmark, Magdeburg Cathedral, which is over 800 years old.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Over ice cream, apple strudel and sandwiches, the hours together end just as they began: In a good mood. Only much richer with valuable knowledge and an expanded network.</p

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">"It's great to see that everyone enjoys this joint activity. We get to talk to each other in private and learn even more about each other," emphasizes Marion Hilbert. Nataliya Detka and Kerstin Mogdans are also looking forward to continuing to accompany the eight doctors and continuing their very individual and exciting stories, which they are allowed to help write for a while.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">In the meantime, the first doctors have been able to start work shadowing or working as assistant doctors in clinics in Magdeburg, the Harz region and the Salzland district. Whether the eight can and want to stay in Saxony-Anhalt is still open. We will continue to support and accompany them: Mrs. Acedillo (Philippines), Mr. Antony (India), Ms. Halili (Iran), Mr. Hilji (India), Mr. Macherla (India), Ms. Muralidhar (India), Ms. Siby (India) and Mr. Tavakoli (Iran).

The state of Saxony-Anhalt supports companies, skilled workers working here as well as migrating and returning skilled workers from Germany and abroad and their families via the State Initiative Skilled Workers in Focus. With the WelcomeCenter Saxony-Anhalt as part of the state initiative Fachkraft im Fokus, the state aims to make it easier for people interested in moving to Saxony-Anhalt to arrive in their old or new home and to support companies wishing to employ skilled workers from abroad with their professional and social integration.

<p>The Institut für Berufspädagogik e. V. offers a coordinated program for foreign doctors for the recognition process of their license to practice medicine in Germany. In the first step, the qualification programs prepare the participants for the professional language examination of the Medical Association with the "Special Module for Academic Health Professions" and in the second step with the "Qualification for Doctors" for the professional knowledge examination.</p

<p>The IQ Network Saxony-Anhalt supports people who have trained in a healthcare profession outside of Germany, would like to work in this profession in Saxony-Anhalt and want to have their professional qualification recognized.

Beautiful forests, lakes and meadows, clean air far away from traffic noise, young parents with secure jobs, two fun-loving daughters of nursery age and a pretty semi-detached house - pure family happiness in the middle of an idyllic Bavarian village. Almost perfect, if it weren't for the longing for their old and adopted home, Saxony-Anhalt, Halle (Saale).

<p class="Standardklein">Claudia and Christoph Bär have been thinking about their future for some time now. "Is that what we really want for ourselves and our children? A good life in the Bavarian countryside with exactly two clubs within a radius of 30 kilometers? Our girls could either play soccer or handball. We ourselves miss the much cooler lifestyle of a bigger city. Claudia grew up in Halle (Saale). Her grandmother lives nearby and would be very happy to see us back," says Christoph Bär. "But throwing everything overboard and giving up all the security?" It's a difficult decision that requires a lot of courage and one that the couple are particularly concerned about at the turn of the year 2020-21. Their five-year-old daughter is about to start school, so a decision needs to be made urgently.</p

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"Claudia trained as a hotel manager, later studied business administration and completed her master's degree in vocational training management. I successfully completed my apprenticeship as a chef a long time ago. We met and fell in love in 2014 while working on a cruise ship. We got married in 2014 and had our two children soon after. So we have always been very motivated to implement well-considered decisions quickly and with commitment. We have wanted to return to Saxony-Anhalt for a long time," says Christoph Bär about their decision. "Unfortunately, all our attempts to find jobs for us in Halle have failed so far. I got a job interview in Magdeburg, which could have been a solution. But not the ideal one. One last attempt was an online search for supporters and offers of help."

It is Kerstin Mogdans, coordinator and advisor at the WelcomeCenter Saxony-Anhalt, who is the first to be confronted with all these considerations on 24.03.2021. She professionally filters the young family's request for advice and checks the services on offer for returnees in the desired region. Kerstin Mogdans refers the Bär family directly to the Halle regional advice center of the state initiative Fachkraft im Fokus for support in finding a daycare place and housing as well as finding suitable job offers.

The experienced regional advisor for skilled workers, Sandro Miritz, can pull many a trump card out of his pocket and knows how to bring people together. He has a good feel for the needs of skilled workers and their expectations of good work in a company. Sandro Miritz is particularly involved in providing Claudia and Christoph Bär with targeted job search advice: application documents, job advertisements, advice on job interviews and standard market remuneration as well as working conditions in the Halle region.

In his job as deputy head of catering at Playmobil Funpark, Sandro Miritz immediately has an idea for Christoph Bär's career change: the up-and-coming company Relaxdays is planning to open a staff restaurant for its currently 300 colleagues at its large logistics center currently under construction in Großkugel in autumn 2021. There is a lot of interest on both sides. One phone call and two interviews later, the employment contract is signed. Christoph Bär has been Catering Manager of the Relaxdays GmbH staff restaurant since 01.07.2021. Relaxdays GmbH was founded in Halle (Saale) and is now at home in many cities - including Halle, Leipzig, Dresden and Könnern. It is the largest e-commerce player in Central Germany and sells its products on platforms and its own webshop to customers throughout Europe.

Now everything is coming to a head. Claudia and Christoph Bär have to quit their jobs in Bavaria. A new tenant is quickly found for the house. Three apartments, nursery places and schools are viewed in Halle in one day. The tenancy agreement for one of the apartments is signed and daycare places are booked. One day before the family's final move to Saxony-Anhalt, Christoph Bär completes the final work in the now empty apartment in Bavaria and takes part in the Saxony-Anhalt WelcomeCenter's virtual "Forum for Relocated People" on 24.06.2021, sitting among packed moving boxes.

<p>Christoph is beaming with joy at the wide-ranging support and the great success of his family in such a short space of time: "You could say we're on a roll. And we are just as hopeful that Claudia will soon sign an employment contract. Promising job interviews have already taken place thanks to the mediation of Sandro Miritz."

Do you know how to apply for a job in Pakistan, how a successful application should be structured? How should the CV be structured? Do you need an application photo? Irfan Mahmood learns that application cultures can be different in another country with his first applications in Germany.</p

<p>The young Pakistani lives with his wife in Halle-Neustadt. "My wife has been awarded a scholarship for a doctoral position and I am accompanying her on the family visa. Now I'm looking for a job". This is proving more difficult than expected. Irfan Mahmood completed a Master's degree in water management engineering in Stuttgart. After his studies, he returned to Pakistan. He quickly found a job at the university there. "When my wife was looking for an opportunity to gain experience abroad, we decided on Germany. I had very good experiences here during my studies in Stuttgart."</p

<p>In May of this year, Irfan Mahmood and his wife arrived in Germany. The first few months in their new home are not easy. His job applications were unsuccessful and he lacked social connections. He seeks contact via Facebook groups. In one group, he found out about an event for international students. "I met German students there. A student helped me and searched the internet with me for support in Halle. We came across the Fachkraft im Fokus website. I really like the fact that you can register for advice directly via a contact form on the website." In the following conversation with welcome counselor Vanessa Adloff, he gets answers as to why his application activities have not yet led to success. "Mr. Mahmood has a high level of specialist knowledge and is very committed. Both the lack of German language skills and the differences between the application documents in Germany and Pakistan, which he was unaware of, are decisive hurdles for him," explains the welcome counselor.

She makes it clear to him that an integration and German course is important in order to pass job interviews and formulate applications. "I wasn't aware that you need a cover letter in Germany and that you adapt it individually for each company." The form of the CV is also new to the 31-year-old: "In Pakistan, you write your story on many pages and include recommendations. In a CV in Germany, however, you should present your professional experience and skills briefly and concisely". Vanessa Adloff gives Irfan Mahmood numerous tips and suggestions on how to design his application documents. He receives additional help from Jobpoint at the Jobcenter Halle.  Another building block for Irfan Mahmood is to find out which job profiles he can apply for based on his qualifications. He started a German course in September 2019. He regularly looks for job vacancies and applies for them. Invitations to interviews follow, "but my German language skills are still a problem. I have to keep at it. I'm also learning technical language on the Internet. It was only through Ms. Adloff that it became clear to me that learning German is essential. This is my door opener to the job market. Her advice will lead to success. I'm sure of that".

"I am so grateful for the opportunities and support I have already been given. On the one hand, that I have found such a good and understanding employer in Elektro Innovations-Team GbR. On the other hand, I am also grateful for the great and varied support from Fachkraft im Fokus. Whether it works out with my studies or I continue to work here, I have found my way in Germany thanks to Fachkraft im Fokus," says Azad Karjoul, looking optimistically to the future. The determined Syrian is planning his next career move. Azad Karjoul wants to start his Master's degree in medical technology in the 2018/19 winter semester. Almost two years ago, he faced the seemingly insurmountable hurdle of finding a job in his new home of Stendal, despite having good language skills, a degree and professional experience.

<p>"It's not always easy to open up companies to our target group. Many companies are reluctant to hire a refugee because of uncertainties regarding the legal and regulatory framework, but also due to socio-cultural concerns. Our task is to support companies with their questions and problems through our intensive support, whether with the new employee or the authorities. This cooperation was decisive for Elektro Innovations-Team GbR in giving Mr. Karjoul a chance," explains welcome advisor Felix Rüge. Felix Rüge got to know the company through a recommendation from the Altmark Innovation and Start-up Center. At the beginning, there are uncertainties regarding cultural differences when hiring a refugee. Felix Rüge takes the time to explain the work of Welcome Support, resolve concerns and open doors: five appointments in two months. "It was mainly a job of persuasion. I had to build trust," he recalls. Elektro Innovations-Team GbR gives Azad Karjoul a chance. In December 2016, the young Syrian receives a two-year contract. From then on, Felix Rüge is a regular at the company. "That's the special thing about the welcome support. Our work doesn't stop once our customers have found a job," says Felix Rüge. He is there when problems arise in the company during integration or the refugee has concerns. Contrary to initial concerns, everything is going well. The company is happy with its new employee. Instead of problems, Azad Karjoul can continue to plan his future. With the support of regional advisor Jana Worreschk, he successfully completes the C1 language course through the further education funding program of the state of Saxony-Anhalt WEITERBILDUNG DIREKT. "Despite my great job at Elektro Innovations-Team GbR, my professional experience in Syria in the field of medical technology made me want to study again," says Azad Karjoul. The Stendal-based company does not want to put any obstacles in the way of the dedicated Syrian: "Before we met Mr. Karjoul, we had our doubts. Now we are sad to let a good employee go. But we don't want to stand in the way of his career aspirations. However, he can return to us at any time," says Her Müller, partner of Elektro Innovations-Team GbR, leaving him the back door.</p

Anas Darraj from Syria has had an employment contract with Mercateo AG in Köthen since 15 May because the employer, Fachkraft im Fokus, the Dessau-Roßlau job center and Jobbrücke PLUS are working together intensively and supportively.

<p>Good cooperation between different players who all have the same goal is important in order to achieve this. This requires open communication and good cooperation between the partners involved. Anas Darraj from Syria has had an employment contract with Mercateo AG in Köthen since 15 May because the employer, Fachkraft im Fokus, the Dessau-Roßlau job center and Jobbrücke PLUS are working together intensively and supportively.

Anas Darraj came to Dessau from Damascus in November 2014. He has a bachelor's degree in economics and initial work experience as an accountant. However, in order to work as an accountant in Germany, knowledge of German legal forms and good communication skills are required. Once he arrives in Dessau, he quickly seeks help from the job center to overcome these and other hurdles. The young Syrian is completing an integration course and also a B2 language course. "Learning is important in life in order to face challenges and new living conditions or to get ahead professionally," is Anas Darraj's motivation. In an application coaching session at an educational institution in Dessau, new application documents are prepared. With these prerequisites, Anas Darraj turns to Jobbrücke PLUS. The project, which aims to integrate asylum seekers and refugees into work or training, places him as a well-qualified and vocationally trained refugee with Fachkraft im Fokus.

<p>"Mr. Darraj was open and eager to integrate quickly into the job market right from the start. Despite his good education, he was keen to constantly expand his skills," says Lisa Stoye, Welcome Advisor at Fachkraft im Fokus in Dessau. The Dessau-Roßlau job center and Fachkraft im Fokus are working in close cooperation and are researching suitable vacancies for him as an assistant or accountant in the region in parallel.</p

<p>In September 2016, Anas Darraj applies for a job offer as an accounting assistant at Mercateo AG in Köthen, Europe's leading B2B procurement platform with over 400 employees in 13 countries. He is invited to an interview. The interview goes well. However, in order to work as an accountant here in Germany, he needs knowledge of the SAP accounting program. In consultation with the Dessau-Roßlau job center, a six-week trial period in accounting is agreed. Lisa Stoye and the Dessau-Roßlau job center clarify all the necessary questions for SAP training. Anas Darraj completes the course with distinction.   "After the trial work, it is always important to sit down with the potential employer, take stock and jointly determine and plan further possible steps. Our support for refugees as well as employers is important in order to clarify possible problems or, as in the case of Mr. Darraj, to find the best way forward," says Lisa Stoye, explaining one of her tasks as a welcome mentor. Together with the Dessau-Roßlau job center and after further discussions, this is found for Anas Darraj. "The support from Fachkraft im Fokus helped me a lot, whether it was finding the necessary qualifications, consulting with the job center or dealing with organizational issues with the potential employer," says Anas Darraj looking back. As he still lacked crucial knowledge of accounting and German tax law, Lisa Stoye contacted the IHK training center. She drew up a training plan for him, which was confirmed by the Jobcenter Dessau-Roßlau. "Mr. Darraj already has a degree and work experience. He has been offered various tailor-made qualifications and has completed them very well. With his part-time contract and the in-service training financed by the job center, we have managed to integrate him into the job market together," says a delighted Sven Thiemann from the Dessau-Roßlau job center.

Anas Darraj now works three days a week at Mercateo AG and on two days he attends further training to become a financial accountant at the IHK Bildungszentrum Dessau. Even though he has the knowledge and is highly motivated, Mercateo has to pool its resources in order to train him and teach him about structures, legislation and working methods in a new company in a different culture. Anas Darraj rotates through different areas so that specialized experts can help him with the transfer of knowledge. "We are taking this route because we see really good prospects with it. We receive many applications as a major employer in the region. Mr. Darraj really is an exceptional example with his excellent qualifications and, above all, his high level of motivation. Every day you can see how hard he tries to get ahead, gain experience and is committed to his job with us. You can feel how much he already identifies with our company and his tasks after such a short time," says Nanett Zimmermann, HR Manager at Mercateo, emphasizing Anas Darraj's good qualifications and commitment.

<p>"I am so happy about my opportunity at Mercateo. I really enjoy my work. The open corporate culture is a big part of the reason why I have already arrived here so well and why I have a lot of support to improve every day," says Anas Darraj, looking positively to the future.

<p>The Jobcenter Dessau-Roßlau, Jobbrücke PLUS, Fachkraft im Fokus and the young Syrian remain in contact in order to achieve the goal of full-time employment&nbspand thus a long-term perspective. "The cooperation between the Dessau-Roßlau job center and us was good from the outset and a decisive factor in Mr Darraj now having a foot in the door at Mercateo," says Lisa Stoye, summing up.

The Edner family's return to Saxony-Anhalt was not actually planned until the end of this year. With the support of Fachkraft im Fokus and the Saxony-Anhalt WelcomeCenter, the family of three was able to move in May and can now spend Christmas in their new home in a relaxed atmosphere.</p

<p>Fourteen years ago, Tina and Karsten Edner moved to Freiburg im Breisgau, 700 kilometers away. "We are both from a village near Köthen. My husband had just finished his apprenticeship, but couldn't find a suitable job in our home town and I couldn't find an apprenticeship after my vocational baccalaureate. Like many others, we looked for prospects in the old federal states," recalls Tina Edner. Her husband had no problem finding a job as a glass and building cleaning specialist because there were hardly any apprenticeships in Baden-Württemberg. Tina Edner trained as an educator and quickly found a job. The two build a new life for themselves in Breisgau, enjoy trips to the mountains around Freiburg and have many friends, not just in the neighborhood.

<p>Home Saxony-Anhalt is always present, however, and not just during visits to Köthen. When her son was born in June 2018, her desire to return home grew. One reason is the poor childcare situation in Freiburg. "The opening hours of the nurseries and the cost of childcare made it impossible for me as a mother to work, let alone have a full-time job." Another important reason is family. "Grandmas and grandpas should be part of our child's everyday life. But if you have to travel at least seven hours by car to see each other, that's not possible".

<p>In February 2019, the family visited Köthen again. A week after the vacation, the decision to return to Saxony-Anhalt is made. She talks to her sister about her plans. She gives her the tip to contact the Saxony-Anhalt WelcomeCenter   Tina Edner gets in touch with Kerstin Mogdans from the Saxony-Anhalt WelcomeCenter. "We supported the Edner family in many ways. On the one hand, we referred them to Ms. Schellhas from the advice service for skilled workers to help them find a job. We also provided them with information on the daycare portal to find a nursery place in Magdeburg and on the regional housing market," explains Kerstin Mogdans.

Tina and Karsten Edner are taking their return step by step. First they have to find a job, then everything else will follow. Regional advisor Cindy Schellhas is helping them to explore the jobs on offer. "From a distance, it is incredibly difficult to recognize where a suitable employer is located and whether it is a recruitment agency. Ms. Schellhas helped us a lot with this and also provided us with vacancies. She was a great support, especially for my husband. The last job interview was many years ago. She practiced a job interview with him in a telephone interview. Karsten Edner receives tips on what he needs to prepare for and what he needs to bear in mind during the interview. At the beginning of April, the family spends a week in Magdeburg, successfully completes job interviews, looks at apartments and children's facilities. Just eight weeks later, they move to their new old home.</p

<p>Through Cindy Schellhas' job offers, they both found a job that they enjoy. "I feel very comfortable. Working as a nursery school teacher is so varied, enriching but also exhausting and can't really be described in a few words. But I love my job. I'm also very lucky that my son has his kindergarten place here and is also absolutely happy." In everyday life, the family is not far away. Tina Edner's sister lives just five minutes around the corner and grandma and grandpa are always on hand "when appointments are due or our son is ill. The ten statutory sick days are quickly used up with a small child. Having the support of grandparents as working parents is worth a lot".

Tina and Karsten Edner are happy to have taken the step back, even if the decision "was an incredible balancing act. Building a life in rural Baden and settling in takes time. Fourteen years leave their mark. We miss our local friends and the mountains around Freiburg." To help them settle in Magdeburg, the family is glad that there is the "Forum for Returnees" organized by the state initiative Fachkraft im Fokus. "We attended the event in November. It was good to exchange ideas with others. We set up a WhatsApp group to meet up. We'll be back at the next forum." </p

Which animal is white, can swim and has a long neck? Mrs. Ibrahim can't answer this question. The children in her kindergarten group can: "A swan," they shout out loud. Ms Ibrahim comes from Iraq. She has been working as an educational specialist at a facility in Magdeburg since November 2019. Language is important to the linguist and literary scholar, so her lack of language skills is a bit of a burden on her self-confidence.</p

<p>"It's important that Ms Ibrahim doesn't give up. Mistakes and criticism should always be seen as positive. My job is to support her and encourage her to keep going," explains regional advisor for skilled workers Nataliya Detka. Ms Ibrahim sought help with her job search through Caritas in June 2019. "I've been looking after my three children for the last few years. Now I wanted to work again. After all, I studied and worked in Iraq. A job is so important for me, my self-confidence and my personality." To start her career, Ms Ibrahim is taking language courses up to B2 level and is training to become a pedagogical specialist.

<p>"How do I apply for a job? Where and how do I find a job? That was more difficult. That's why I looked for support," recalls Ms. Ibrahim. Together with Nataliya Detka, she updated her cover letter and CV and searched the internet for vacancies. Over 20 applications are sent out. The first few were unsuccessful, but then came the invitation to an interview. "The head of the facility was very happy about my application. We had a great conversation and laughed a lot. I was surprised that she wanted to hire me straight away," Ms Ibrahim recalls. The young woman did not yet have the confidence to do this. But after a two-week internship, she is now a permanent employee at the children's facility. Ms Ibrahim is ambitious and has high expectations of herself. "I love singing and would like to sing "Pitsch, patsch, Pinguin" or "Häschen in der Grube" with the children". She practices diligently every day. The children are welcome to correct her. And so it gets better every day. "Ms. Ibrahim should always take a detached look. What have I achieved so far? Because that's already a lot and she can be proud of herself," motivates regional advisor Nataliya Detka. She will continue to accompany Ms. Ibrahim on her journey. "I am very grateful for Ms. Detka's support. Without her, I wouldn't have found my job, which I enjoy. And she gives me so much courage. Thank you".

Do you know the story of the frogs in the milk pot by the Greek author Aesop? Two frogs jumped into a pot of milk and thought they would never get out alive. But one frog swam and swam until the milk turned to butter and he was able to jump out of the bucket. The frog believed in himself and stuck to his goal, even when it seemed hopeless.

<p>Why are we telling this story? Because it fits the last few months of Mysoun Alyakoub's life. The Syrian woman fled to Germany alone with her two children in 2015. Her husband was only able to join her months later. It is important to both of them to integrate right from the start. They attend integration and language courses, the children attend school and kindergarten. In June 2017, they came to the advice of welcome counselor Lisa Stoye via KAUSA to get support in their search for a job in Dessau. "I was still on my B2 language course at the time, but I wanted to start planning early," recalls Mysoun Alyakoub. Together with Lisa Stoye, a skills profile was drawn up and initial ideas for placement prospects were discussed. "Ms. Alyakoub is a qualified teacher with professional experience. We therefore had two approaches: on the one hand, a short-term perspective in project work or as an office assistant. For the long term, however, she wanted a job in her field of philosophy at a university. We both knew that a long and difficult process awaited us. Of course, we had no idea how difficult it would really be," says the welcome counselor.</p

<p>The translation of the certificates takes an unusually long time. Mysoun Alyakoub was only able to submit her application for recognition of her degree in literature and philosophy at the end of 2018. In the meantime, she completes a C1 language course. In further conversations with Lisa Stoye, it became increasingly clear that Mysoun Alyakoub wanted to work with children "When Ms Alyakoub talked about her experiences as a teacher and educator, her eyes lit up and she seemed emotional," says Lisa Stoye. The goal is clear, integration as an educator is the aim.</p

<p>Intensive networking begins. Lisa Stoye exchanges ideas with her colleagues, researches training opportunities, makes enquiries, uses events such as the development forum of the lead projects to discuss cases, with the discouraging result that no qualification or lateral entry is an option, despite the lengthy process of obtaining the relevant work certificates from Syria. The state education authority also only gives a negative prognosis, as literature and philosophy are not part of the German curriculum. Despite the setbacks, Mysoun Alyakoub is sticking to her wish and is aiming to train as an educator.</p

<p>At an event, Lisa Stoye meets Franziska Frisch, project manager at AWO SPI GmbH in Dessau, and describes the case to her. The initial idea of an internship to prepare for the training turned into a temporary permanent position until June 2020. "The fact that Ms Alyakoub joined our team was a mixture of necessity, chance and creativity. There were personnel changes in our team. Ms Alyakoub needed 600 hours of practical teaching experience as an entry requirement to start her training," explains Franziska Frisch. Since April 1, Mysoun Alyakoub has been working on the "Kita-Einstieg: Brücken bauen in frühe Bildung" and "Starke Netzwerke: Elternbegleitung für geflüchtete Familien" projects.  The target group of the projects are migrants and their families. Many do not speak German and have different cultural expectations of early childhood education. "My job is to be a linguistic mediator on site. To translate notices, to give families the opportunity to speak to the educators. On the other hand, I want to allay families' concerns that kindergarten in Germany means discovering and exploring the world through play. In Syria, kindergarten means learning right from the start," explains Mysoun Alyakoub. She is now in various facilities in Dessau every day and supports the teachers in the kindergartens or after-school care facilities.</p

<p>"Ms. Alyakoub is an asset to any children's facility. The providers are overwhelmed by the many cultural and language barriers faced by foreign parents. Ms. Alyakoub not only has language skills, but also a great willingness to integrate, many years of experience in dealing with children, assertiveness, a willingness to compromise and a very tolerant view of diversity. In Saxony-Anhalt, we have an enormous shortage of skilled workers in the education sector. If we want to successfully integrate foreign skilled workers on a large scale in the future, the economy must become more tolerant, the official system must be revised and more lateral hires must be created. Otherwise, it would be a real shame to waste the potential of qualified and committed women (and men) like Ms. Alyakoub," says Lisa Stoye, Welcome Advisor.

Language and speaking is important in order to make contact with other people and thus participate in social life. For someone who does not speak German, this is a crucial building block for integration. But that is literally easy to say or not to say.

<p>Baseel Kamol jokes with the customer while giving him a mineral water. A few months ago, this would not have been possible because he didn't speak a word of German. The 35-year-old came to Germany from Syria in September 2015 and moved to Halle in August 2016. He sought support from welcome counselor Waseem Aleed, because Baseel Kamol wanted to settle in quickly and integrate. "When Baseel came to me in October 2016, he hardly spoke any German and lacked the confidence to use the foreign language. Baseel wanted to change that, but he needed support," says Waseem Aleed, describing the initial difficulties.

<p>Baseel Kamol enrolled on a B1 language course. At the same time, Waseem Aleed starts looking for a potential employer and meets Daniel Bechstedt at Stadtwerke Halle: "As a large company and employer in Halle and the surrounding area, we are aware of our social responsibility. That's why we launched the project "Perspective. Training. Future." initiated". The aim of the project is to give young people with placement barriers, such as poor school-leaving qualifications, dropped out apprenticeships or refugees, the opportunity to obtain an apprenticeship or job at Stadtwerke Halle in the best case scenario. "In this way, we give people who fall through the usual application grid, for example because their grades are not so good or, as in the case of Mr. Kamol, because of their migration background, a second chance. They can prove themselves in an internship with us and, in the best case, get an apprenticeship or an employment contract," explains the social education worker, "Even though Baseel Kamol doesn't fit into the target group in terms of age, we looked for a way to give him a chance to find his feet professionally."

<p>The two see good opportunities for the young Syrian at Maya Mare, a company owned by Stadtwerke Halle. In addition to the pool and sauna area, Maya Mare also has a fitness studio - Viva mare. Because Baseel Kamol worked as a fitness trainer in Syria, he was able to impress the interviewers despite his language difficulties. After his B1 language course, he completed a four-week internship in May of this year. "The cooperation with "Fachkraft im Fokus" and Mr. Aleed has been really good so far. Mr. Kamol was optimally prepared. All organizational issues, for example with the job center, are handled by Mr Aleed. He is always a point of contact for us and Mr. Kamol," says Daniel Bechstedt.</p

<p>Now Baseel Kamol has to overcome his reluctance to speak German, as he is the first contact at the gym. He greets guests at reception, chats to them during training breaks or prepares shakes for them. "Baseel is very well integrated into the team. All of his colleagues and our guests in the gym help him to improve his German. He always has his dictionary with him," says a delighted Carsten Voigt, team leader at the gym. Baseel Kamol has arrived: "Work is important in order to feel at home here. When I go to work, I look forward to seeing my colleagues. The team is like a family to me. I am hopeful".

<p>The next step is a possible part-time job at Maya Mare. But Baseel Kamol has even more plans for the future. In the best-case scenario, he will start a qualification as a fitness trainer. And, of course, he will also complete the B2 language course so that he can stay at Maya Mare in the long term. "There's still a lot we want to achieve together for Baseel. The goal is just as important as how we get there. My job is to give him the best possible support, whether with the authorities or Maya Mare," says Waseem Aleed.

<p>"Greetings," was one of the first words Baseel Kamol learned in the gym. There are many more to come.

Hussein Almohammad is welding a workpiece using the TIG process when I visit the welding workshop at SLV Halle GmbH - Schweißtechnische Lehr- und Versuchsanstalt Halle - on a November day. The young Syrian is focused. He is preparing for his next TIG welding test. It would be the last exam to obtain the internationally recognized TIG welder's certificate. So far, he has successfully completed all 5 required modules.</p

<p>Hussein Almohammad has already worked as a welder in the port in Syria. Once he arrived in Germany, he would like to start working in this field again. But he realizes that he needs support, and not just in finding a job. Also because you can only work as a welder if you have the necessary welding certificates. Searching the internet for advice, he finds Fachkraft im Fokus and makes an appointment with Waseem Aleed, Welcome Advisor for Halle and southern Saxony-Anhalt. The welcome support provided by the state initiative Fachkraft im Fokus supports refugees in areas such as the recognition of previously acquired qualifications, improving language skills or further training. "Waseem helped me a lot. I wouldn't be here now without him," says Hussein Almohammad. The welcome guide clarifies the qualification with the SLV and prepares all the necessary documents for the application at the Jobcenter Halle. "Hussein managed the interview with the job center on his own. It was important to me that he was personally involved. And that was the right approach," says Waseem Aleed. The Syrian will start his qualification in May 2017. He will soon have his TIG welder's certificate. After that, the manual electric welding process is still to come. "The training is going really well. I have nice colleagues here who help me and with whom I can also talk and laugh during the break," says Hussein Almohammad happily. Once he has mastered all the welding passes, his big goal is to finally get a job.

<p>"Many refugees who complete their welding qualifications with us have already gained professional experience in this field in their home country. But without the internationally recognized and standardized examinations, they cannot find work as welders," explains Axel Börnert, Head of Marketing at SLV Halle GmbH. Welcome companion Waseem Aleed has been working with SLV for over a year and a half for this reason. "There is great interest among the refugees in a welding qualification and career prospects in this industry. The B1 language course is a hurdle for many of them, but it is a prerequisite for any kind of qualification," says Waseem Aleed. The original idea was therefore to create a group course. The group was to attend welding training four days a week and complete a language course for one day. Unfortunately, this was not possible at the time due to the different integration courses offered by the various educational institutions attended by the planned participants. Axel Börnert comments: "There is a great demand on the market for welding specialists. We have many companies and temporary employment agencies approaching us and asking for skilled workers. For this reason, we are pleased about the cooperation with Fachkraft im Fokus. Some of the demand can be met by foreign skilled workers. However, language deficits sometimes prevent us from being able to react more quickly for the labor market and at the same time contribute to integration. However, Axel Börnert also emphasizes in our conversation that it is important for the refugees to learn German. Particularly in vocational training lessons, it is not possible without appropriate language skills. But he also emphasizes how many master the lessons despite language deficits. "On the one hand, our trainers help everyone with questions. On the other hand, I see how the refugees here improve their German every day in technical and colloquial language, in conversations with colleagues and in everyday working life," he explains.

The young Syrian Ali Deeb also tells me how he is improving his German every day: "I'm here with German colleagues. I learn better here. And if I don't understand something, my colleagues speak more slowly". Ali Deeb is 22 years old. A friend of his works as a welder for a large company. He wants that too. In August 2016, he turns to Waseem Aleed, who supports him on his path from then on, whether in discussions with the job center or later when he starts his job. "Ali was originally intended to take part in the planned group training. As this was not carried out, we had to apply for his qualification again individually. This delayed the start of the training. Now I'm glad that he's already made it this far," explains Waseem Aleed. Ali Deeb has been completing his training at SLV Halle GmbH since August. If all goes well, he will be finished next spring and will be able to apply for welding passes in TIG, electric manual and flame cutting. "Without Waseem, none of this would be possible. I would have to stay at home. I am so happy. He really helped me," he says gratefully and is looking forward to his professional future.

"I'm celebrating my 40th birthday this year. By then, I would also like to have arrived in Germany professionally. I have a good feeling now," José Contreras-Quintero announces his goal for the next few months when we meet in a small café in Kleine Ulrichstraße in Halle. He has until October this year to achieve this goal. Even though he is an optimistic and open-minded person, the prospects looked different just a few months ago. Despite many years of professional experience, the geological engineer from Venezuela found it difficult to find his way around the German job market.</p

<p>In 2016, he came to Germany on a work visa. "Germany has played a big role for me for many years. I attended a summer course at Martin Luther University in Halle back in 2012. At the time, I won an innovation prize from my employer in Venezuela. As a prize, I was allowed to choose a course in a country of my choice. I wanted to go to Germany. I liked it so much in Halle that I subsequently spent vacations in Germany. I actually wanted to write my doctoral thesis at the university in Halle. My employer at the time would have supported this. Due to the oil crisis, this was no longer possible. So I applied for a visa at the German embassy because I saw my future in Halle," he recalls.</p

<p>The first time back in Halle is difficult, the language and the different habits in everyday life. However, José Contreras-Quintero quickly got his bearings again, partly because he received support from his fellow citizens. Only his career is not progressing. After three months had already passed, he came to regional consultant Sandro Miritz through recommendations. "My eyes were opened here. They explained to me how the German job market works, how to apply and what I need to clarify in order to be professionally recognized here. Without a specialist in focus, I would have been at a loss for the next few months." José Contreras-Quintero receives numerous tips and the relevant contacts to have his qualifications translated and recognized by the Saxony-Anhalt Chamber of Engineers. Sandro Miritz also advises him to take the B1 language test. Without a recognized language level, it is almost impossible to get a job. José Contreras-Quintero has taken care of all these things over the last two years. He is also completing further training as an environmental officer and the trainer aptitude test. Now it's time to gain professional experience in Germany. José Contreras-Quintero is once again looking for support from Fachkraft im Fokus.

<p>He is given the opportunity for an internship at Stadtwerke Halle through welcome guide Waseem Aleed. "The Stadtwerke Halle Group provides a wide range of services, from energy and water supply to local public transport, recycling collection, wastewater disposal, waste disposal, street cleaning, pool operations and city lighting. We offer a wide range of career opportunities. Based on Mr. Contreras-Quintero's studies and previous professional experience, we offered him an internship in the field of energy supply," recalls Daniel Bechstedt, Human Resources at Stadtwerke Halle GmbH. José Contreras-Quintero started his internship in October 2018 and gradually took on more and more tasks. What started out as two projects to supervise eventually became twelve. "Mr. Contreras-Quintero thinks along with me, asks the right questions and thinks outside the box. I quickly realized that I could assign tasks to him and that he would implement them independently and successfully," says Barbara Gruber, Environmental Protection Officer at EVH GmbH, praising him. For example, he draws up a new list of the hazardous substances used and carries out a substitution check or creates an overview of the key figures for energy efficiency. After completing his internship at the end of February 2019, José Contreras-Quintero is optimistic about the future: "I was able to work in a great team and learned a lot, professionally, but above all I got an impression of the German working culture. In my previous applications, I had the impression that I hadn't been shortlisted because I lacked professional experience in Germany. He is now working towards his goal of finally making a career start in Germany. Until then, he is volunteering at the Halle Volunteer Agency. "I'm in the most productive phase of my life," explains Jose Contreras-Quintero with a smile, "I want to get involved where I live. That's why I support AIDS Aid or give private tuition to refugees. Now I hope that I can also show this in my professional life. Thanks to Fachkraft im Fokus, I am now well prepared for this. Initiatives like Fachkraft im Fokus are so important for us migrants and should accompany skilled workers from abroad right from the start. Not only because of the many tips and support, but because you don't feel alone".