The challenges of integrating into a new country, city and community are manifold — not the least of which is mobility. To help make this element more accessible in Berlin, specialized bicycle workshop Rückenwind (meaning “tailwind”) opened in Neukölln in 2015 to provide bicycles to those who have had to flee their countries, so that they can easily get around their new home — and meet Berliners along the way. On Mondays to Wednesdays, one volunteer and one refugee meet to select and repair a bike together. The project not only promotes mobility and integration, but also makes a contribution in terms of sustainability, as the bicycles are usually assembled from donated frames and parts that would otherwise no longer be used. On Fridays, Rückenwind opens its doors to become a DIY repair shop: for a small donation, you can use the tools on site to work on your own bike, and for more difficult jobs, a skilled mechanic or a refugee who has been trained by Rückenwind will be happy to assist. (Text: Lisa Staub / Photos: Rückenwind)
Rückenwind, Lenaustr.3, 12047 Berlin-Neukölln, map
Bike repair shop: Mon-Wed 16-20h, DIY session: Fri 16-20h
Volunteers and donations are always welcome; find out more
