What projects are you currently working on within the organization?

Modernization and Digitalization of Austausch´s administrative structures in general.

What motivates you to work in the social/public sector and in Austausch? Why is this work important to you personally?

I believe in political action in democracies, especially regarding civil society to take position, to speak out loud, to participate and engage, and to support others who are at risk. Personally, I got to know Austausch in early 2015 during my school time. Since this year I followed the activities and agenda. Last but not least I wanted to join Austausch, to gain some working experience. Now I am figuring out how to strengthen this NGO in “uncivil times”.

What has been your most rewarding experience working with the Austausch so far?

In a personal way to get to know really engaged, motivated and inspiring people. Professional speaking I am still waiting for “better times”.

What are the most significant projects you have been involved in throughout your career? 

In my previous job, where I worked as an Office Manager Assistant, I co-worked in a team in a project, and through my position as I was in charge of our database, we increased the efficiency of it which meant a higher level of success in fulfilling our goals. Besides, this project runs every year – so we had a comparison in quantitative terms.

What is your favorite book and why?

My favorite book called “Ungleich vereint” by the Sociologist and Professor Steffen Mau.The key lies in the frame itself. The book discovers different structures, discourses and theories of the the Federal Republic of Germany and the GDR, from a nowadays perspective to analyse e.g. ideologies, identities, diversity. Concerning German history and my family history itself it highlights these moments.

What’s your favorite place in Berlin|Germany? Is there a spot in the city/country that inspires or relaxes you?

My absolute favorite space in Berlin is “Kollwitzkiez”. I know its history, but in terms of atmosphere I can recommend it for everyone.

What type of music or song is your go-to when you need motivation or to relax?

It depends on the mood I am in in that precise moment. I cannot generalize this at all.

Tell us one fun fact about yourself that most people wouldn’t know!

I like some kind of humour, sometimes you laugh, sometimes you don´t. Or even sometimes it´s really black humour which can trigger or provoke you. At one day when I was in Russia many years ago, stood in the entrence of a friends flat, a neighbor came out and after introducing each other, he made the joke after my friend told him that I am “German”, he responded: “Still alive”, and laughed. Some jokes you have to take serious (due to ideology), others – it depends on the context and discourse manners. 

So, to speak in  a broader way: I do not like it very much, if some people just make up their own “definitions” about myself. In this regard I don´t like simple answers. The world is to complex.