Parwiz Amiri, 41, father of four children, grew up in a political family with seven siblings. Since 1993 he has lived in Germany. “As an adolescent, when I came to Germany, I experienced a mix of freedom and isolation. Homesickness and longing for my family and friends accompanied me. The challenges of language and environment were significant, but I also enjoyed the freedom and peace I could experience. It was comforting not to hear the sounds of gunfire and attacks in my surroundings.”

For over six years, Parwiz carried the burden of a temporary stay. “The biggest challenge was proving to German authorities, as a minor, that my life and that of my family in Afghanistan were at high risk. I was not allowed to leave the state of Hesse, leading to complete isolation.”

His apprenticeship changed the situation. “At 18, I started an apprenticeship as a chef. With the support of my teachers, I finally received a two-year residence permit after six years, gaining freedom for the second time since my escape from Afghanistan.” 

When Parwiz was young he dreamed of becoming a pilot, though his journey fleeing to Germany changed that. “I had the desire to become a pilot and travel the world. I dedicated myself to learning while sharing my dream with my family. They fully supported me. When I fled to Germany I still carried that dream. I was diligent in school and won various academic awards in mathematics and natural sciences. Despite my good performance and diligence, my stay in Germany was unfortunately limited in time. To remain in Germany and later finance my studies, I completed an apprenticeship as a chef, as this was a way to obtain a residence permit. Pilot training was also associated with high financial costs that I, as a normal refugee, could not afford. I had to reluctantly abandon my goal of becoming a pilot and reorient myself. I chose to study civil engineering because my skills and interests are strongly technically oriented. I chose this course of study to support the rebuilding of my homeland, Afghanistan, and to give back to my roots.”

Working as a civil engineer in a senior management position with a well-known architectural firm, Parwiz is grateful and content. “I have achieved the life and career goals I set as a youth and continue to build upon them. I want to use my expertise in civil engineering to contribute to Germany, preferably in Frankfurt, where I feel at home. Additionally, I wish for my children to grow up in a healthy environment, and I want to spend a lot of time with them.”

Parwiz finds Germany his home. “It is my home. The willingness and commitment of society impresses me. For several years, I have been volunteering as a bridge between Germany and Afghanistan. What bothers me in Germany is the persistent susceptibility to racism.”

He recommends to his fellow Afghans to get involved, be part of the society and show creativity and cultural diversity. “I am confident that with diversity and activism, we can overcome racism. Adding to this do not forget that we are ambassadors for our country. We represent the positive image of Afghanistan.”

He sees himself as well integrated. “I am not only integrated but also enriching the multicultural coexistence with my Afghan roots and culture. My friends are diverse, and our common language is German. My network extends across various areas of society and my activities.”

Parwiz has both beautiful and painful memories from Afghanistan. “Between 2012 and 2016, I spent an enriching time in Afghanistan, getting to know the country from various perspectives, and my enthusiasm for the land was enriching.

When he faces difficult situations, “My personal experience teaches me to return to myself and let my Creator guide me. Patience is crucial, as He has a better plan for us,” Parwiz added. 

“I pray for peace and freedom in Afghanistan and worldwide.”