Zusan Osmani, 34, is a Strategic Executive at System Analysis and Program Development (SAP), specializing in SAP SuccessFactors within the Human Resource Software division, Customer Success. She holds a PhD and grew up in a small village in Germany after her family’s migration in 1990. The family moved to Germany when the situation in Kabul worsened. “My family decided to seek safety in Germany, as my grandparents and uncles had settled here in the 1980s.”

According to Zusan, they were just about the only foreign family in her village in Germany. “Throughout my education, I was often the only foreign girl in my class, and I had to work twice as hard as the native students to prove myself.” The family’s emphasis on the importance of education drove Zusan throughout her school, university and doctoral studies. “I learned that it’s never too late to pursue education, but when you have the opportunity, you should seize it. For foreign individuals, discipline and self-belief are key, no matter what others may say.” Her doctoral thesis was titled Optimising Recruitment in the Era of Social Media: Strategies to Promote Diversity and Age Diversity. “I aspired to explore innovative approaches to enhancing inclusivity in modern recruitment practices.”

Zusan is a published author. Her first book, Business English for HR Managers, provides English speaking strategies for HR professionals. She is busy writing her second book which will be published in the coming year. Since 2014, Zusan has been a proud member of UN Women Germany. “Back in 2013, during my studies, I had the privilege of working with the United Nations in New York, where I gained invaluable experience during the General Assembly.” Additionally, she serves as an Ambassador for Peace Hub Europe, a coalition of diverse Non-Governmental Organisations. “Together, we organize workshops and mentoring programs aimed at fostering peace and development.”

In 2021, Zusan opened the Female Union Instagram account, where she actively engages on Instagram to share various projects and initiatives. “My primary goal is to reach as many people as possible and inform them about the truth in a world full of misinformation. I aim to offer opportunities through workshops, educational content, and events that promote knowledge and unity. Additionally, I want to raise awareness on sensitive topics and create a platform for individuals to gain knowledge, stay informed, and find common ground.” Following the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan, with two fellow activists, she organized “Insights of Afghanistan”, a talk platform on Clubhouse an app that ran from October 2021 to mid-2022. “It focused on sensitive topics surrounding Afghanistan, bringing together Afghan women in the diaspora and speakers from Afghanistan to share their voices and discuss ongoing issues. The platform aimed to amplify the voices of Afghan activists and engage in meaningful conversations about current incidents.”

Zusan is grateful that her family chose to come to Germany, where they grew up in peace and had access to education and human rights. “We came as guests, but over time, we have become part of German society. We have adopted the culture, values, and rules, which are now ingrained in our characters.” However, she believes that racism still exists: “Racism can be encountered in various settings, whether at work, in social gatherings, or even in classrooms. We must be able to discuss these issues and remain resilient in the face of adversity,” she says. 

According to Zusan, the situation of refugees in Germany is complex, shaped by humanitarian needs, evolving policies, and public discourse. “Germany continues to be a leading destination for refugees, especially from conflict zones such as Syria, Afghanistan, and Ukraine. However, challenges persist in housing, integration, employment based on refugees’ skills, and social acceptance.” To achieve successful integration, she suggests: “Refugees must have access to language education, job opportunities, affordable housing, and mental health support, alongside efforts to promote cultural exchange and community engagement. Long-term success requires efficient legal processes, localized efforts, and sustained funding to empower refugees and ensure their active participation in society.”

Zusan recommends the following to newly arrived Afghan evacuees in Germany: “Be grateful that you have arrived in a country where peace and equal rights prevail. Having peace in your mind and in your environment will help you make the most of your life. Take advantage of the opportunities available to you here, especially in education, as it is the key to achieving your goals. Don’t be discouraged by racism; stay positive, connect with others, and engage in community events. Embrace your new surroundings and be open to what life offers. It can always get better.”

In her personal life, Zusan is in a good place and she values her health above all else. “Being healthy is a gift, and it provides me with the energy to embrace life.” Professionally, she believes success comes with hard work and time. “I’ve learned that each step is a learning experience, helping me grow and discover what I want in life. I remain positive, no matter the challenges. Living in a peaceful country gives me the strength to keep pushing forward, using my voice to contribute to my homeland, even from far away.”

At the moment, Zusan is involved in several projects and she hopes to help others through her knowledge and experience. “My books are designed to provide guidance and training to help readers take steps toward improvement. I continue to expand my work with the Female Union platform and use my doctoral research to advocate for more diversity in companies, particularly in offering refugees and individuals from foreign backgrounds better opportunities. This approach benefits both the individuals and Germany, contributing to a more inclusive and economically robust society.”

“Peace begins within ourselves and extends to the world through respect, understanding, and listening. When we approach others with empathy, it opens the door to deeper communication and mutual understanding. Without inner peace, it is difficult to foster peace in our relationships and communities. Achieving peace requires cultivating calm and balance within ourselves, which then radiates outward, creating harmony.

It is also essential for civil society to engage, as every voice counts and can make a difference. History shows that it was not the rulers who created change, but the people who stood against injustice and acted. Even reaching one more person can make an impact, so do not hesitate to address sensitive issues and stand up for what you believe in.”