Welcome back to “Being Black in Germany.”
Today, I want to talk about something many Black people experience after moving to Germany: working, connecting with colleagues, and trying to make genuine friends.
Finding a job can already be challenging—especially when German is not your first language. But even after getting the job, you may sometimes feel that you must work twice as hard to prove yourself. You might also wonder whether someone’s behaviour is simply part of German culture or whether you are being treated differently because you are Black.
People may touch your hair, ask where you are “really” from, make uncomfortable jokes, or assume that you do not speak German. These experiences may appear small to other people, but when they happen repeatedly, they can make you feel isolated.
Making friends can also be difficult. In Germany, many people form close friendships at school or university and keep the same social circle for years. They may be friendly at work but still keep their private lives separate. This can feel like rejection, especially if you come from a culture where people invite each other home and build relationships quickly.
I have learned that making friends here often requires patience and initiative. Joining a church, sports club, parents’ group, language exchange, or community organisation can help. Friendships may develop slowly, but that does not mean they cannot become meaningful.
At the same time, you should never feel that you must change your identity to be accepted. You deserve a workplace where you are respected and friendships where you can be yourself.
If you are Black and living in Germany, have you found it difficult to make friends or feel accepted at work? I would love to hear about your experience.
Remember: you are not alone, and your experience matters.
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