To settle in a new city, it helps to meet a few locals — a feat that is often easier said than done. This is particularly the case for newly-arrived refugee women who have fled to Germany alone. Amongst the many community initiatives dedicated to integration, one mentoring program particularly worth noting is Goldnetz’s Point Project. Established by the Federal Ministry of Family Affairs, the program was set up to provide career support to women who have had to flee their homes by themselves. Instrumental to realizing this aim are “point sisters” — local female volunteers who are partnered with a woman who has come to Berlin alone to offer friendship, advice and support — and thereby a way to feel a little more at home. Women who are interested in signing up to be a “sister” receive training and background information from a Goldnetz coach before being paired up with a newly-arrived woman. Coffee catch-ups are also offered to allow for relaxed conversations, and sisters independently arrange meetings that fit with their schedules and interests. Along the way, Goldnetz coaches are on hand to answer your “sister”’s bureaucratic questions or addressing any of your own. (Text: Jennifer Prietzel / Photos: Julia Liebisch, Angela Dovifat / Point)
Point Project by Goldnetz GmbH, Am Köllnischen Park 1, 10179 Berlin-Mitte; map
Contact via email or call 03028883722.
