Fahim Farooq, 33, was born in Germany. He is an IT specialist and a portrait and fashion photographer, holding a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Koln. With his talent in photography, he inspires individuals and attracts their interests. 

Fahim sometimes confuses his identity, “As someone who has Afghan roots, the most difficult thing is that I am not fully German because of my skin, tone, and hair colour, but I am also not fully Afghan because I grew up far away from the country. My identity is somewhere between being an Afghan and a German,” he says. 

Fahim is pursuing his passion as a photographer, “I am satisfied with my life and career because I have my camera to pursue my passion and enjoy the things I do,” he added. He explores the world from behind the lens of a camera. 

His German citizenship made his way easy, “With my Pass, I can easily travel to other countries to connect with different cultures and nations.”

However, he is worried about racism, “I hope that no one is left behind and a culture of acceptance is promoted across the world,” he said, crossing his fingers. 

Fahim has a few German friends, but his friends do not like to speak English, so he advises new arrivals to practice the German language, “For making friends and building networks, you have to learn the German language, which can smooth the way,” he says. Fahim also suggests his peers be connected with the Afghan diaspora to find support for the integration process. 

Fahim loves Afghani culture and traditional practices, “Even though Afghanistan is not nearby, we keep our culture at home. I like Afghan music, and I like to hear songs from Ahmad Zahir. I also like the typical foods, like Ashak and Bolani. Afghani clothing is amazing; of course, I love the hospitality among Afghans,” he says.

If Fahim finds himself in a difficult situation, to instill a sense of resilience and perseverance, “I try to speak with friends to find a solution. Also I go to the library and try to find a book that will help me,” he says. 

“I wish peace for all over the world and equality between men and women.”