Cultural Integration and Networking: Building Friendships and Finding Purpose in Germany

Cultural Integration and Networking: Building Friendships and Finding Purpose in Germany

After living in Germany for 14 years, I’ve had many experiences, achievements, and setbacks along the way. Adapting to a new lifestyle and environment is always challenging, and when that country has a different language, the difficulties are even greater. However, every situation has its pros and cons. During my time in Germany, I’ve earned an academic degree, gained professional experience at a major biotech company, learned a new language, and most importantly, my husband and I welcomed our child. Germany is not just a place I’ve lived, it’s the birthplace of my son.

In 2021, we moved to Munich, a completely new city, as new parents. We arrived in November, and our son was only six months old. It was cold and snowy outside while I stayed indoors, caring for and feeding him. At first, we knew no one in the city except our kind and supportive landlady. But gradually, we started socializing and meeting both Nepali and German friends. Slowly, we built a network here, and we were fortunate to connect with the large Nepali community in Munich. This allowed us to celebrate our festivals with them, something we hadn’t experienced in other cities.

Once my son started daycare, we expanded our circle further, interacting with more international and German parents, immersing ourselves in the local culture and language. It opened up a whole new and exciting chapter for us, full of hope and joy.

While networking, we discovered Akasha Academy, an organization whose  projects deeply resonated with us. “Akasha Academy brings together people from diverse backgrounds to work toward one common goal: creating pathways for the future of our planet.” This vision struck a chord with me, and both my husband and I began participating in their events. We learned that one of their Vision is to support the Nepali community by providing educational opportunities for children and women, with the motto: “Educate. Enable. Empower.”

The founder, Tulku Khyungdor Rinpoche, emphasizes that “We all breathe the same air, drink the same water, and walk the same earth.” Akasha Academy aims to create conditions for true freedom of choice, grounded in universal common sense, ensuring the survival of humanity. Their goal is to empower people through scholarships, training, and workshops on pressing global and local issues, with a focus on supporting young women from underprivileged families who are eager to learn and make a positive impact.

My husband and I have always felt a deep responsibility to give back to our community in Nepal. While living in Germany, we often looked for ways to contribute, whether financially or intellectually. When we discovered Akasha Academy, we knew we had found an opportunity to support our community directly or indirectly by engaging in their projects.

I have included here the link to their website as well as various projects they have been conducting in Nepal

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