By Christoph Lubczyk | Project Leader
Veronika volunteers with our alliance
organization Habitat for Humanity Germany.
The 33-year-old helps Ukrainian refugees in
the Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis find housing,
accompanies them on viewings, and translates.
Three years ago, she fled Ukraine with her
sister. In this interview, she talks about
her arrival in Germany and what her
commitment means to her today.
Aktion Deutschland Hilft: Veronika, can you
remember your first days or weeks in Germany?
What stands out in your memory?
For weeks, I felt as if I were enveloped in a
fog. Everything was new and foreign. What I
particularly remember is the feeling of
complete insecurity and the constant need to
adapt. During this time, a friendly word or a
simple smile meant so much.
What were the biggest challenges for you
personally during your initial time in Germany?
The language was definitely the biggest hurdle.
Surprisingly, I had little trouble with the
bureaucracy, as my professional background is
heavily involved in administration and document
management. So, the process was relatively
familiar to me. It was much more difficult to
connect with people and ask for help – at first,
I even found it difficult to leave the room.
What helped you feel emotionally secure and settle in?
Having a clear daily structure helped me a lot. I
also allowed myself to consciously recognize my
efforts and view them as small successes. This was
especially important for me because I am a
self-critical person.
When you think of your homeland, what do you miss most?
I miss the people most of all, friends, family, but
also those who are no longer here. The streets I
can walk with my eyes closed. I also miss things
that have been passed down from generation to
generation, like my grandmother's hand-embroidered
items or a book with a personal dedication from a
friend who died in the war.
I miss my books very much. That's why I often
visit bookstores or browse bookshelves, even
though I haven't been reading much lately. I
also miss the chirping of crickets and the taste
of sun-drenched tomatoes. I also miss the pets
who stayed in Ukraine but are now safe.
A second home
Did you have a job or training in Ukraine?
Can you practice it here in Germany?
I studied law and have worked both as a lawyer and
in the public service at the pension fund. I also
worked in a small family business. Unfortunately,
practicing my profession directly in Germany isn't
possible because the recognition process is very
lengthy, and I'm currently concentrating on other
ways to put my experience to good use.
Three years is a long time. Do you feel like you've
"arrived" in Germany?
Partially, yes. I've made great progress
linguistically and culturally and feel more secure.
But a part of me is still on the move.
What does the word "home" mean to you today?
Would you say that Germany has become a second home to you?
Recently, I intensely felt what home means to me. It's
less a place than a state: I feel at home wherever my
mom is. Fortunately, she was able to join my sister and
me later. Germany has indeed become my second home today,
but my heart is still in Ukraine.
"I know very well what it feels like to feel
helpless and overwhelmed."
Do you ever think about returning to Ukraine with your
family – or is that not an option?
Not at the moment – and that's understandable. As soon as
peace is restored, I will travel there immediately.
Whether I will return permanently – I haven't thought
about that yet. Currently, my life goals are in Germany.
I can actually do more for Ukraine here than I could
on the ground.
What motivates you to volunteer with
Habitat for Humanity for other refugees?
I want to give something back – as a thank you for the
help I've received myself. I know very well what it feels
like to feel helpless and overwhelmed. If I can help make
this journey a little easier for someone, it means
a lot to me.
Thank you for your donation!
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