Leaving Kenya to live in another country was never part of my grand design. I had my roots firmly planted in the fertile soil of Kenya, where my family and I had built our lives.
However, life, in its unpredictable wisdom, had other plans.
Three years have passed since we embarked on this transformative journey to Germany, and what began as a leap of faith has blossomed into a chapter of growth and discovery.
My odyssey to Germany is a short renaissance—a redefinition of my path, a testament to resilience, and a masterclass in the art of starting anew. It has taught me to embrace uncertainty, find strength in vulnerability, and seize opportunities even when they appear cloaked in challenges.
It is my dear wife who sowed the seeds of this journey. Her unwavering determination and vision pushed the boundaries of what I thought was impossible. She received a job offer that led us straight to the heart of Germany— me and my two boys, Leon and Liam.
It was a moment of triumph, a beacon of hope. Yet, as the initial euphoria settled, reality set in: I was stepping into a new country without a job, without a safety net, and with the weight of responsibility on my shoulders.
Back in Kenya, I had spent nearly a decade carving out a career in the media industry, working across prominent media houses before venturing into entrepreneurship. I co-founded the now-defunct Dream Spaces Architectural Photography Limited–a genius real estate photography firm and the only one in Kenya back then.
But the winds of change were harsh—economic instability, the devastating ripple effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the post-election turmoil in 2017 were unforgiving. These challenges forced me to consider relocating to Europe for me and my family.
Arriving in Germany, I found myself in uncharted territory. The language was unfamiliar, the culture was different and the job market was daunting.
Yet, amidst the uncertainty, I discovered a reservoir of resilience within myself. I embraced the challenge of reinvention, applying for positions, networking, and immersing myself in the process of building a new life.
Today, as I reflect on this journey, I am filled with a deep sense of pride and gratitude.
Germany has become more than just a new home—it has been a crucible of growth, a place where I have learned to adapt, thrive, and appreciate the beauty of new beginnings.
While the road has not always been smooth, it has been profoundly rewarding, and I am reminded daily of the strength that lies in embracing change and the boundless possibilities that await when we dare to dream beyond borders.
Lesson 1: Failure Can Redirect Your Path
There was a time when the word “failure” felt like a dagger to my heart and a betrayal of the dreams I had meticulously nurtured. This has since changed. While it looked like a failure, it was more of a redirection and the wisdom that comes from rising after a fall.
For over five years, I poured my heart, soul, and sweat into building my company. It was more than a business; it was a manifestation of my dreams and a testament to my ambition.
Yet, despite the long hours, the sacrifices, and the unwavering dedication the venture wasn’t bearing fruits. I found myself standing at a crossroads, staring into the abyss of uncertainty.
In that moment of despair, life presented me with two paths: I could retreat into the familiar embrace of my comfort zone, clinging to the hope that things might somehow improve, or I could take a bold leap into the unknown. The latter meant leaving behind my life in Kenya and embarking on a new chapter in Germany with my wife and two children. It was a decision fraught with fear and doubt but also shimmering with the promise of new beginnings.
For over a decade, being a journalist had been more than just a profession—it was my identity.
The thrill of chasing stories, the pride of seeing my byline in publications across Kenya and beyond, and the joy it brought my parents when they introduced me as their accomplished son—it all felt like an integral part of who I was.
Success had become my companion, and failure felt like an uninvited intruder.
Yet, as I stood at that crossroads, I realized that failure was not the end of my story but the beginning of a new one. The decision to relocate to Germany was not just a geographical shift; it was a profound transformation, a shedding of old skin to make way for new growth.
It was a leap into the unknown and a journey marked by uncertainty and a glimmer.
In Germany, I discovered the titles I held or the accolades I earned, but my ability to adapt, learn, and rise again did not define my true path.
Today, I wear my failure like a badge of honor, not because it was easy, but because it taught me the most valuable lessons of my life. It taught me that failure is not the opposite of success but a stepping stone toward it.
My journey to Germany was not just a relocation; it was a rebirth. And as I look back, I realize that sometimes, the most profound transformations begin with a single, daring leap into the unknown.
Lesson 2: It Is Okay to Start Afresh
Accepting to pack my bag and move to Germany was terrifying, but I knew I had to follow through.
On arrival at Berlin, Brandenburg International Airport, I felt an overwhelming mixture of deep connection and complete disconnect. The first thing I noticed was the trees; for some reason, they looked different from the ones back home.
Then there was the deafening silence; even the cars were eerily quiet. I instantly started missing the familiar cacophony of honking cars, the comforting smell of home, and the people in the streets with wide, welcoming smiles on their faces.
I took a deep breath. This was a new beginning; no one knew us here. We were about to start from scratch.
Was it lonely? Maybe but the comfort of having my spouse sounded right. Did I feel like going back home? Many times. But I had made this choice to better my life, not just for myself but also for future generations. I was determined to follow through with it.
I planned to immediately find work within the first month to make a lot of money to improve our life. This was never the case.
I was often scared and unsure, but this journey taught me that starting afresh is not just okay—it can be the key to finding your purpose.
Lesson 3: Challenges Should Keep You Focused
Learning to adjust to life in Germany was not without difficulties.
Language Barriers – I had basic German language skills, and everyday conversations often required greater fluency. Enrolling in language courses became essential for integration.
Cultural Differences – Germans value punctuality, direct communication, and strict adherence to rules. Concepts like Ruhezeit (quiet hours) took some time to get used to.
Bureaucracy – Everything from opening a bank account to enrolling my children in school required multiple steps and extensive paperwork. Patience and persistence were crucial.
Lesson 4: You Need German Language to be Relevant Job Search
I relocated to Germany without German language skills, It has been a daunting task. I have since joined a language school. Most employers in Germany who target the thousands of MBA graduates in Germany are doing business in English as the primary language. However, the number of purely English-speaking companies in Germany is limited.
It is important to study German as a language to get the most out of your stay in Germany while in there. You need to ensure that your master’s degree is not limited to just intellectual but also hinged on a cultural experience where you get to know the very rich German culture.
Normally, the work-life is not limited to the time you spend in the office as a lot of interactions take place outside the working hours. A good command of German will help you make the best of your time in Germany, make lifelong friends, and offer you a great experience.
Practical Advice on Job Search
For those considering the Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card), ensure that your job path will remain in demand. Germany offers numerous opportunities, but it’s important to choose wisely.
Research the job market, understand future trends, and align your skills and career goals with areas that promise growth and stability. By doing so, you can seize the opportunities available and build a sustainable and rewarding career.
Fazit
My journey from Kenya to Germany was filled with unexpected turns, but each step taught me invaluable lessons. Failure redirected my path, starting afresh led to self-discovery, and set a strong foundation for me. Remember, every challenge is an opportunity in disguise.
Embrace change, stay motivated, and believe in the possibilities ahead. Your journey is just beginning
This article was written by our Senior Content Writer Henry Odhiambo.
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