Since the time when this project was last updated (2014), many things have changed in the world and we are assisting to a dramatic increase in the number of the refugees trying to get through Europe doors, that meanwhile are becoming smaller and smaller.
I'm very well aware that our european society is faced with new, difficult challenges but with this project I would still like to dream about Europe as an open land that can be home for those who are looking for a better life as well as for those who are running away from the war.
Samira
"Somewhat, we are never fully satisfied. However, Berlin has been the best decision I made in the last 3 years at least. I have accomplished more here in one year than I did for 4 years in Norway, on a personal growth level."
Why did you move abroad? Why in Berlin?
I left home, Wales, when I was 17, to go to university in London, Copenhagen followed, Norway, Australia and now finally Berlin.
Is there any characteristic, you can identify as peculiar of your country, you miss?
I miss the Welsh people open friendly and warm way of invading you on the street, in the market to just start funny conversations, continuously calling you “Love” after every sentence.
If you look back at your life in your country, do you see improvement that justify your moving abroad? Or, do you see improvement chances?
I definitely do! The mere fact that I can communicate with most people I have met, regardless of language barriers, cultures and be able to develop long lasting relationships that transcend race, culture and geographical limitations is a gift.
Do you feel integrated in the German society? In the Berliner one?
German society, definitely not; Berlin is a different matter though, it feels like sanctuary where everyone can find their place without the need to conform and fit into certain boxes.
What does the work represent and mean to you?
Every job I ever did was always a means to survival or to facilitate the freedom to do, go and live as I wished.
What does this specific job mean to you?
This job was a pleasant surprise, being my first call centre job in almost 6 years, i had given on that profession based on the bad experiences from the past. In Berlin, with my limited German and creative writing work not being my biggest asset, I had to consider it again, working in a call centre. I am happy to say that despite it not being easy, it is the best call centre I have worked in, mainly due to the calibre of people working in Booking.com, most people here are special, interesting and surprisingly real.
Has anything changed of your approach to work since you work in a Call Center?
Since Booking.com - yes. In this call centre i have learned to care about my individual work load, as it affects my colleagues, we all work as a unit. The more you care about your colleagues the better job you try to do for their sake, if not yours.
Samira is Born in Cardiff, Wales.
After she spent most of her childhood in Abu Dhabi, she moved back to Europe, living in London - where she took a BA in Philosophy and Political Sciences -, Copenhagen, Norway, Australia and now Berlin.