This simple yet profound quote from Abiola Sarnecki resonated deeply during our
panel talk on Wednesday:

“Perspectives That Matter: Should You Stay or Leave Germany?”

The question Dola Akinduro, co-founder of Black Women in Tech DACH and our fantastic moderator, posed was:

“What has been your favorite part of living in Germany?”

A seemingly simple question with deeply personal answers.

Abiola’s response?

✨️“Once someone becomes your friend, the person is your friend.”

I couldn’t agree more. Friendship here is deep, loyal, and meaningful.

Other highlights shared by our amazing panelists (Abiola Sarnecki, Dr. Esona Fomuso, and Susan) included:

✅️ Quality of life

✅️ Structure and reliability

✅️ Employee rights

✅️ Individuality before community

✅️ A rich and deep culture

✅️ Student life and personal growth opportunities

✅️The directness, even when the truth stings

Why Perspectives Matter

Sometimes, whether professionally or privately, we find ourselves in communities where people tend to whine and blame, losing sight of the great things they already have.

This mindset can blind us to the privileges and opportunities around us.

A fresh perspective from someone on the outside reminds us of what we might have forgotten, encourages us to question assumptions, and has an amazing
side effect: it builds relationships with those who seem different from us.

Together, we find common ground to strengthen the company, community, or
country we love.

What about you?

What’s your favorite part of living in your country of birth or chosen country? Do you agree with Abiola’s statement? :

👉 “Once someone becomes your friend, the person is your friend”?

Thank you to everyone who made this event memorable: Dola Akinduro, Dr. Ronke Babajide, Maryan Dadle, MBA,
Chioma Nzekwe, MBA,PMP®, the entire Black Women in Tech DACH team, and the wonderful panelists Abiola Sarnecki and Dr. Esona Fomuso as well as to all those who engaged with us.

You made every moment of this discussion enriching!

P.S. Your insights also confirmed that my upcoming book, *47 THINGS WE
LEARN FROM THE GERMANS: LESSONS FROM AN IMMIGRANT’S EYE,” is incredibly
relevant.