In a small German town near Stuttgart, there is an unassuming Christian project that spans two buildings along a peaceful street. In a low-rise apartment building, around ten young men in their twenties reside. They have come to Germany from Africa and the Middle East, seeking safety and a new beginning. Meanwhile, downstairs in the office and classroom spaces, the project’s German “parents”—the adults working with the Saatkorn integration project—are present during the day to support refugee integration.
The second building is the workplace for the residents, known as Kornhaus. Here, a small pasta factory operates. In addition, there is a lunch café where immigrants naturally interact with locals. They use the German language daily, practice intercultural communication, and gradually integrate into life and work in their new homeland. This is a practical example of how immigrant communities in Germany can thrive.
The Origins and Mission of the Saatkorn Project
The Saatkorn project was initiated by Christian influencers. Some of them have experienced firsthand what it is like to come from an African Muslim country to a Christian and orderly Germany. Therefore, they understand the challenges of immigration in Germany and what it means to start a new life there. In just a few years, this small initiative has proven to be an excellent way to support the integration of refugees and young newcomers into German society.
Behind the scenes of everyday life, the residents of the Saatkorn project receive housing, education, social services, and mentorship. With the guidance of responsible adults, they learn to live harmoniously. However, this is not always easy, as they must navigate different religions, cultural codes, and the nuances of appropriate behavior. Moreover, the project is supported by a group of entrepreneurs. These entrepreneurs benefit from having the residents as valuable interns in their companies, thereby promoting social integration, work experience, and intercultural understanding.
In the documentary “Not Yet Here,” voices are given to those who have come to Germany from elsewhere. They share their personal experiences of immigration and adaptation. At the same time, the adults involved in the Saatkorn project reflect on the broader picture of immigration in Europe and the various factors contributing to this challenging phenomenon. Eventually, they have witnessed that—even in difficult circumstances—it is possible to build something new and meaningful through the right means. This documentary offers powerful insight into refugee stories, Christian community projects, and integration initiatives in Germany.
Production Details
- Name: Not Yet Here
- Directing: Ruut Ahonen
- Interviewees: Dr. Monika Klotz, Dr. Yassir Eric, Birgit Dürrstein, Amari and Wian
- Length: 25 minutes
- Language: English (subtitled: in Spanish, Italian, Greek, Portuguese, French Finnish, Swedish and Danish)
- Publishing: November 2023
- Producer: Mika Ahonen
- Production: Hurttimurtti
