From refugee to electric helper: Hamed's impressive integration!

From refugee to electric helper: Hamed's impressive integration!

Hamed Diomande's journey from Ivory Coast is an impressive example of the opportunities that migrants in Germany can use to master their integration into society. The 24-year-old now lives in Georgsmarienhütte in the Osnabrück district. His journey began when he came to Germany at the age of 16 as an unaccompanied minor foreigner after making a dangerous escape on a refugee boat to Italy. A fateful adventure that many young Africans undertake in order to find a better life. Initially, Hamed faced many challenges; he could neither read nor write and had little professional experience.

But with determination and the right support system, he achieved a remarkable transformation. He began attending language courses and worked in various helper jobs while his stay was initially tolerated. In 2023 he decided to use the right of residence to apply for a regular residence permit. He had to reach the required language level A2 and prove his integration within 18 months.

Successful integration and career entry

Hamed mastered all the requirements with flying colors: He successfully completed the “Life in Germany” integration test and found a job at PRO-LOG IV GmbH in the summer of 2023. His employers describe him as reliable and committed. As an electrical helper, he regularly works on construction sites in Hasbergen and Georgsmarienhütte. In the summer of 2023, he finally received his regular residence permit in accordance with Section 25b of the Residence Act, which offers him new security in Germany.

His next big goal has already been decided: Hamed plans to start training as an electrician. This not only shows his motivation, but also underlines the opportunity for migrants that is offered by the opportunity residence law: With this law, people with toleration can apply for a permanent residence permit within a set time frame, provided they meet certain requirements, such as learning the German language and securing a livelihood.

The Opportunity Residence Act – creating perspectives

The Opportunity Residence Act gives many, like Hamed, the opportunity to obtain legal status. The requirements include, among other things, that an uninterrupted stay in Germany of at least five years can be proven. A commitment to the free democratic basic order is also necessary. These provisions can help migrants not only find a roof over their heads, but also be able to actively participate in society. The law also offers family members the opportunity to reunite and obtain a residence permit, even if they have lived in Germany for less than five years.

For those who find themselves in a similar situation to Hamed, it is advisable to find out about all options in a timely manner and seek support. Various advice centers and information offerings are available and can significantly help you plan the next steps. Multilingual information about the Opportunity Residence Law is available on websites such as [integrationsanwalt.de].

The story of Hamed Diomande impressively shows that integration is not just a slogan, but rather an active participation in the life of society. Through education, commitment and the necessary legal framework, diversity can be successfully practiced in our country - and that is a win-win for everyone.

For more information about integration opportunities in Germany, visit landkreis-osnabrueck.de or explore the resources of symbolab.com to get an overview of different integration strategies.